Anisotropic Thermal Conductivity in Shear Deformations of Polymer Melts

Illinois Institute Of Technology, Chicago IL

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract for Venerus' project 0075789 Anisotropic Thermal Conduction in Deforming Polymers Flow-induced orientation of polymeric molecules results in anisotropic mechanical, optical and thermal properties and has profound effects on material properties. The objective of this study is to obtain quantitative, time-dependent measurements of the thermal diffusivity tensor in deforming polymer liquids. These measurements will be made using a non-invasive optical technique known as Forced Rayleigh Scattering. Experiments will be conducted on several polymer melts in step-shear strain and cessation of steady shear rate flows. Measured components of the thermal diffusivity tensor will used in conjunction with mechanical (stress) and optical (birefringence) data to evaluate the stress-thermal rule. Understanding the connection between the flow-induced orientation that occurs during processing of polymers and their end-use physical properties is essential. The thermal diffusivity tensor measurements obtained in this study will significantly enhance efforts to formulate physically-meaningful process flow models that can be used for the development of advanced processing technologies and applications.