Thermotropic, compatibilization with

Aromatic thermotropic liquid crystal polyesters (Ar-TLCP s) and TLCP s containing aliphatic linkages can be compatibilized as binary-TLCP blends by transesterification. The morphology and physical properties of the resultant binary-TLCP blend are dependent on the blockiness, composition and viscosity ratios of the two TLCP components. Polycarbonate (PC) can also be blend compatibilized with either TLCP s or binary-TLCP blends, by transesterification of aliphatic linkages from the TLCP s into the PC. In this work, the degree of selective transesterification is quantified and its effect on TLCP blend compatibility is described... 

The second section is devoted to self-reinforced composites prepared through the melt processing of thermoplastics and thermotropic LCPs. The individual chapters address various aspects of rheology, processing compatibilization, and performance characteristics of in situ composites. Attention is directed to preparation of fibers and molded products, with the special objective of optimal performance properties through processing. 

The ultrasonic treatment of PET/LCP blends leads to improvements in the mechanical properties of the homopolymers and some blends. The increase in the viscosity and mechanical properties of neat PET and LCP, as well as some of their blends at certain amplitudes, points toward homo- and copolymerization. The increase in viscosity of PET after ultrasonic treatment is attributed to possible esterification reaction. The presence of hairy structures on the surface of LCP droplets in the core region of 90/10 PET/LCP blends after ultrasonic treatment at an amplitude of 7.5 otm illustrates the improved adhesion between the PET and LCP phases, and possible copolymer formation under the action of ultrasound. Low residence times in the ultrasonic zone and energy saving due to reduced pressure render ultrasonic extrusion a viable method for the compatibilization of thermoplastic polymer/thermotropic LCP blends. Further refinement of processing conditions could allow one to achieve greater enhancements in the performance of LCP, and its blends with PET. 

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