Thermoplastic polymers are of interest as replacements for thermoset matrix materials in continuous fiber reinforced composites because of their reduced cost of processing, longer shelf lives of raw materials, faster processing times, moldability, reduced waste, and ability to be recycled. High performance resins offer high use temperature and excellent mechanical properties in composites, however they present the challenges of high processing temperatures and melt viscosities. It has been demonstrated in a number of low temperature polymers that addition of small amounts of polyhedral oligomeric silisesquioxane (POSS) nanostructured chemicals yields enhanced melt flow and ability to change rates of crystallization, without altering thermal and mechanical properties. The degree of rheology modification depends on the structure and dispersion of the POSS in the polymer matrix. We describe the rheological and crystallization performance of POSS blends with PPS and PEEK semi-crystalline polymers and amorphous polysulfones.

Rheology, melt processing, and crystallization modification of high performance polymers for thermoplastic composite applications

2019 Spring National Meeting

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