Abstract
The dynamics and shear orientation behavior of a model thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer (DHMS-7,9) were characterized by mechanical rheometry and in situ wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). In the nematic phase (between 120 and 192°C), DHMS-7,9 shows a three-region flow curve accompanied by a strong and relatively constant orientation over the entire shear rate range. A mysterious mesophase occurs between 92 and 120°C that has much higher viscosity than that of the nematic phase and a monotonically shear thinning flow curve. In this phase, a striking flip of the orientation from the flow direction to the vorticity direction occurs below a critical shear rate. This orientational flipping is reversible in response to step changes of temperature and/or shear rate. Examination of the linear viscoelastic behavior suggests certain rheological similarities between the x-phase and layered fluids.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 5581-5593 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | Macromolecules |
Volume | 32 |
Issue number | 17 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Aug 24 1999 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Organic Chemistry
- Polymers and Plastics
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Materials Chemistry