Rheo-Physics of Multiphase Polymer Systems: Characterization by

FROM THE PREFACE Almost all polymeric systems are subjected to a flow field at least once along the route between preparation and application. . . . There is also an increased interest in predictive models on phase behavior and suitable techniques for characterizing the structure of these systems when subjected to flow. Multiphase polymeric systems are particularly susceptible to flow, which may cause orientation of species, morphological changes, and phase transitions. All these events may, in turn, affect the end product properties, such as permeability, electrical conductivity, [and] mechanical properties. In processing, escalating needs have evolved for optimization and development of novel and more uniform product properties and increased productivity. In order to arrive at an understanding of processing polymeric systems under elastic flow conditions, it is convenient to analyze the basic physical mechanisms under conditions that enable development of predictive models in conjunction with controlled experimentation. . . . In recent years, the science of rheo-physics has evolved and now involves both advanced theories and experimental techniques. Rheo-physics means the rheological, morphological, and thermodynamic behavior of structured polymer systems during flow. . . . In this monograph, the rheo-optical techniques are . . . emphasized. The book gives an introduction to rheo-physics, including fundamentals of theories, and a representative selection of applications of rheo-optical techniques for analyzing multiphase systems. The chapters contain both practical advice for the new experimenter . . . as well as review material for the experienced scientist.

Table of Contents:
Preface, Abbreviations, Nomenclature I.General Principles Introduction to Rheo-Optics Introduction - Techniques - Summary Fundamentals of Optical Rheometry The Maxwell Equations - Polarization and the Jones and Mueller Calculus - Total Intensity Light Scattering - Spectroscopic Techniques - Design of Optical Instruments - Design of Scattering Experiments Theories of Small-Angle Light, X-Ray, and Neutron Scattering Review of Scattering Phenomena - Survey of Scattering Approximations - Discussions of Scattering Theories, Their Limitations, and Applicability - Multiple Scattering - Particle Size Distribution - Characterization of Orientation Techniques and Instrumentation Introduction - Basic Principles of Instruments and Experiments - Experimental Considerations and Data Treatment II. Structure Formation Flow-Induced Structure Formation in Polymer Solutions Introduction - Flow-Induced Structure Formation in Flexible Chain Systems - Flow-Induced Structuring in Semi-Rigid and Liquid-Crystalline Systems - Theoretical Interpretations - Conclusions - Appendix Flow-Induced Crystallization Introduction and Background - Quantitative Considerations - FIC from Solution - FIC in Melts - FIC in Melt Spinning - Status of Theories in FIC Rheo-Optical and Rheo-X-Ray Investigations of Liquid Crystalline Polymers Introduction - Liquid Crystalline Phases and Liquid Crystalline Polymers - Rheology of Nematic Polymers - Rheo-Optics and Rheo-X-Rays in Steady-State Shear - Transient Shear Experiments - Conclusion III. Phase Transitions Flow-Induced Dissolution/Demixing in Polymer Systems-A Predictive Scheme Introduction - Experimental Studies - Theory of Flowing Polymer-Containing Liquids - Results of Theoretical Calculations and Comparison with Experiments - Conclusion and Outlook Flow-Induced Phase Changes in Polymer Blends Role of Phase Transitions in Processing-Morphology Relationships - Overview on Experimental Results - Theoretical Approaches - Influence on Phase Diagrams - Conclusions Phase Transitions of Two-Phase Systems in Shear Flow Introduction - Flow-Induced Melting in Polymers - Phase Behavior of Diblock Copolymers - Phase Transition in Polymer Blends: Homogenization and Decomposition - Molecular Interpretation of Phase Transitions - Concluding Remarks IV. Morphology Development Shear Flow-Induced Structural Changes in Polymer Blends and Alloys General Introduction - Techniques for Morphology Monitoring - Fundamentals of Micro-Rheology - Transient and Steady-State Behavior of Polymer Blend Morphology - Appendix In situ Polymer Blend Characterization by Light-Scattering Techniques Introduction - Particle Size Evaluation - Orientation Analysis - Conclusion Glossary, Index 21 Tables, 227 Figures