Effect of transesterification on the morphology and mechanical properties of a blend containing a liquid crystalline polymer

• Published in: Journal of applied polymer science 2001-06, Vol.80 (13), p.2583-2592
• Main Authors: Radmard, B., Dadmun, M. D.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; blends; Chemical modifications; Chemical reactions and properties; Exact sciences and technology; interface; liquid crystalline polymer; morphology; Organic polymers; Physicochemistry of polymers; transesterification
• ISSN: 0021-8995; 1097-4628
• DOI: 10.1002/app.1369

Transesterification of polymer blends containing polyesters is often utilized to improve the interfacial adhesion and mechanical properties of a phase‐separated blend. However, in some circumstances, the transesterification can also modify the morphology (crystallinity or liquid crystallinity) of the blend components due to the disruption of the structure of a regular polymer. This, in turn, can deteriorate the mechanical properties of the blend. We present, in this article, results that correlate the extent of transesterification between a liquid crystalline polyester and polycarbonate to the change in the mechanical properties of the blend and the liquid crystallinity of the liquid crystalline polymer (LCP). The results exemplify the need to understand the role of transesterification on the morphology and mechanical properties of the blend so that the optimum processing conditions may be found. The experimental protocol can also be used as a guide to determine these optimal processing conditions. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 80: 2583–2592, 2001