Stereocomplex PMMA Fibers

Abstract

AbstractWe have utilized the fact that syndiotactic and isotactic Poly(methyl methacrylate) {PMMA} form a stereocomplex to spin semi-crystalline PMMA fibers. Our goal is to produce oriented semi-crystalline fibers with a high enough melting point to withstand atactic-PMMA processing conditions. We successfully developed stereocomplex PMMA fibers by wet spinning and gel spinning, and characterized their properties by means of differential scanning calorimetry, optical/electron microscopy, mechanical testing and X-ray crystallography. Stereocomplex fibers from gel spinning have highest melting points and polymer chain orientation, hence are the best reinforcing agents. We are currently working on producing self-reinforced composites using these fibers.