New Microlayer and Nanolayer Polymer Composites
Abstract
One-dimensional photonic materials with applications to optical limiting and optical switching have been developed in conjunction with the Naval Research Laboratory. This was accomplished by synergistically combining nanolayer coextrusion methodology with dispersion of nonlinear dyes and careful control of nanolayer refractive indices. Novel ultrathin nanolayered polymers were created with layer thicknesses less than the radius of gyration of the macromolecule. Under these constrained conditions, crystalline layers approximately 11 nm thick were produced with two-dimensional hierarchical structures. By inclusion of gold or graphite nanoparticles, systems with novel electro-optical characteristics can he developed. High barrier, injection moldable systems have been produced by microlayering a polymer with good water barrier and a polymer with good oxygen barrier. Taking advantage of differences in melting points, layer integrity was maintained during injection molding in between the two melting points. This concept, which utilizes and maintains the large interfacial surface area achieved with microlayering, is broadly applicable to highly immiscible polymeric systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA395804
Entities
People
- Anne Hiltner
- Eric Baer
Organizations
- Case Western Reserve University