Chain-length dependent relaxation dynamics in glass-forming polymers

ORAL

Abstract

We present experimental and computational results on the effects of molecular size, monomer chemistry, and flexibility on the relaxation behaviour of glass-forming polymers. We show experimental data from broadband dielectric spectroscopy, calorimetry, and oscillatory rheology together with RIS computer simulation calculations. We discuss the length-dependence of molecular relaxation dynamics, chain conformation and shape; and relate these features to the glass transition temperature. We discuss the links between glass-formation in small molecules and oligomeric/polymeric glass-formers and the dependences on polymer chemistry and flexibility.

*Funding provided from Georgetown University, JS Ives Endowment, the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.

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Presenters

  • Peter Olmsted

    • Georgetown University

Authors

  • Daniel Baker

    • Physics & Astronomy, University of Leeds

  • Robin Masurel

    • University of Paris, Diderot

  • Matthew Reynolds

    • Physics & Astronomy, University of Leeds

  • Peter Olmsted

    • Georgetown University

  • Johan Mattsson

    • University of Leeds
    • Physics & Astronomy, University of Leeds