Reactive compatibilization and in-line morphological analysis of blends ofPET and a thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer

The reactive extrusion of a compatibilized polyethylene terephthlate and th ermotropic liquid crystalline copolyester blend system is investigated via in-line optical microscopy and light scattering. The reactivity, morphology , theological behavior and mechanical properties were studied. It was found that a droplet-fiber transition in the liquid crystalline polymer can occu r, and this transition is dependent upon the reactivity, the viscosity rati o of the blend components and the shear fields. The fibers are strongly ori ented along the flow direction when specific processing conditions are met. An enhancement in the mechanical properties correlates with the morphology . The formation, deformation and stability of the fiber microstructure unde r different flow conditions are discussed.