On completion of this subject the student should be able to:
1. Give full information on composition, structure and morphology of polymers;
2. Discuss the relationship between this information and mechanical properties;
3. Explain how molecular and crystal symmetry affect electronic band structure;
4. Explain how electronic excitations determine electrical and optical properties.
Chemical composition and molecular structure of linear homopolymers, cis and transforms; Branching, cross-linking and network formation; Ordered and disordered chain formation; Rubbers and glasses, glass transition temperature; Crystal structure of common polymers; Polymer morphology in films and fibres; Mechanical properties of common polymers; Young’s modulus, effect of degree of crystallinity and cross-linking; Elasticity; Dynamic mechanical behaviour; Drawing and plastic flow; Polymer symmetry groups; Electronic band structure; Optical properties of polymers, birefringence; Light scattering in films; UV absorption spectra, band structure interpretation; IR absorption spectra and interpretation in terms of molecular motions; Electrical properties of polymers; Dielectric relaxation in solid polymers, Maxwell-Wagner effect; Electrical conductivity; Mechanisms of dielectric breakdown; Organic semiconductors; Inorganic polymers; Superconduction in polymers.
Mark, J. E., Physical properties of polymers, American Chemical Society, Washington, USA, 1984.
Blythe, A. R., Electrical properties of polymers, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK, 1980.
Continuous assessment 40%
Written examination 60% (1×3 hrs.)
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