Novel Optical and Mechanical Properties of Diacetylene Containing Segmented Polyurethanes.
Abstract
The extremely versatile class of thermoplastic elastomers known as segmented polyurethanes has expanded from its roots as processible rubbers to include materials technology industry. Today, SPU's are found in biomaterials, optical adhesive and waveguide materials, and protective coatings for microelectronics packaging. Functionalization of a segmented polyurethane with linear or nonlinear optical moieties presents the opportunity to develop thermoplastic elastomers which play an active, rather than a passive, role in sensors, optical switches, and other devices. The ability to couple the optical and mechanical behavior of a TPE presents a world of opportunities, which include the ability to process highly oriented, optically anisotropic materials, and the possibility of an extensible mechano-optic sensor which may be coated onto a surface or molded into any number of desirable shapes. The development of a new series of diacetylene-containing elastomers has successfully combined the elastomeric properties of segmented polyurethanes with the optical properties of polydiacetylenes. This new class of materials has ushered thermoplastic elastomers into the arena of optical polymers and smart materials.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA316246
Entities
People
- Michael F. Rubner
- Paula T. Hammond
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology