Molecular Composites - Rodlike Polymer Reinforcing and Amorphous Polymer Matrix

摘要

The concept of molecular composites utilizing rod-like aromatic heterocyclic polymers as reinforcements in coil-like heterocyclic polymer matrices has been demonstrated. A series of polymer films, prepared by vacuum casting from various solutions of rod-like polymer, amorphous polymer, and solvent, were fabricated and tested. Morphological studies of these films were conducted using x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The results of the morphology studies showed pronounced structure and definite evidence of the ordering of the rod-like polymer. In some cases, a second phase or conglomeration was evidenced. Analysis of the scanning electron microscopy pictures indicated that the second phase was itself a composite of rod-like and amorphous polymer. The mechanical testing showed significant increases in tensile modulus and strength with only ten percent rod-like polymer in the matrix; this was especially true after stretching of the film had been performed. Analytical equations developed for composite materials were used to calculate theoretical properties of the conglomerates and rods. All results and conclusions are presented in detail in this report. (Author)