MELT RHEOLOGY AND X-RAY ANALYSIS OF GRADIENT COPOLYMERS: SEQUENCE DESIGN FOR PROCESSIBILITY

摘要

Gradient copolymers have great versatility in terms of sequence distribution of monomers along the polymer backbone for control over their level of nanophase heterogeneity and flow properties. Using a gradient composition rather than a block-type distribution, it is possible to design longer chains which undergo nanophase segregation at lower temperatures yet become more homogeneous and melt processible at accessible temperatures. These behaviors are investigated for a range of block and gradient architectures using melt rheology and small-angle x-ray scattering.