PDCPD

PDCPD, or poly(dicyclopentadiene), is a high-performance thermosetting polymer derived from the dicyclopentadiene monomer (DCPD). It is typically produced by ring-opening metathesis polymerization of DCPD or by polymerizing and crosslinking DCPD-based resins, which yields a highly crosslinked network containing norbornene-derived units. The resulting material is known for its stiffness, thermal stability, and chemical resistance.

The cured polymer is insoluble and infusible, with a high glass transition temperature and good dimensional stability. PDCPD resins exhibit a high modulus and hardness, along with resistance to many solvents and fuels. However, they tend to be brittle and have limited toughness and impact resistance unless reinforced or modified with toughening agents or fillers. The network structure also contributes to excellent thermal stability, making PDCPD suitable for elevated-temperature applications.

Processing and applications are dominated by bulk molding compounds (BMC) and sheet molding compounds (SMC), where PDCPD resins are combined with fillers, fibers, and catalysts and then cured by heat. Reinforcement with glass or carbon fibers further enhances mechanical properties for use in automotive components, piping and fittings, electrical insulation, housings, and various consumer and industrial parts that require high heat resistance and dimensional stability.

Synthesis and variants: DCPD contains multiple reactive double bonds, enabling ROMP and subsequent crosslinking to form the final thermoset network. Curing conditions, catalysts, and formulations can be adjusted to tailor properties for specific applications.