ABSTRACT
Ionomers are macromolecules containing low levels of ionic groups chemically attached to a non-polar backbone. The addition of these charge groups can have pronounced effects on the properties of the polymer. In modified elastomers for example ionic interactions can greatly improve tensile properties, clarity or miscibility of an ionomer with other polymers and additives. Some of the first commercial products include ethylene-methacrylic acid (Surlyn®), and chlorosulfonated polyethylene (Hypalon®). In solution a few ionic groups attached to a non-polar polymer enhance its surface activity and its ability to control rheological properties. Ionomers used industrially in fluids include lightly sulfonated polystyrene in drilling muds and polyurethane ionomers in aqueous dispersions for coating and adhesive applications. The ability of ionomer membranes such as Nafion® to impose permselective control and carry large ionic fluxes has lead to their extensive employment in electrolytic cells. For more details on the applications there are several chapters in books devoted to the subject of ionomers (see for example Pineri and Eisenberg, 1987; Schlick, 1996; Tant et al., 1997).
