Poly(acrylic acid) plus zinc diacetate composites: High temperature service and electric conductivity

Poly(acrylic acid) + zinc diacetate hybrid composites have been prepared by precipitation from aqueous solutions and drying. The lowest glass transiti on temperature T-g determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) Is 392 degrees C, providing a service temperature range unusually large for p olymer-based materials (PBMs). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) shows that thermal decomposition begins some 10-20 K above each T-g. The alternating c urrent impedance was determined in the nitrogen atmosphere from 370 degrees C to 530 degrees C. Dynamic dielectric measurements were performed between 20 degrees C and 350 degrees C, also under nitrogen. In contrast to typica l PBMs, there is evidence of ionic conduction in some of the composites. Th e dynamic dielectric properties depend on the composition. The materials ob tained are usable in medical applications and as high durability low fricti on coatings.