Super strong polymers in planar directions

A novel approach for producing multiaxially oriented polymers with ultrahigh mechanical properties in more than one direction is discussed. According to the approach, which is adaptable to conventional commercial processes, the polymer is processed in a contained geometry at a temperature near to but below the isotropic crystalline melting point under curvilinear flow conditions generated by the combined effects of a compressive force and a rotational force perpendicular to the compressive force. The process is demonstrated with thermoplastic and thermotropic polymers using simple torsional flow. The general features of the process and the properties of the multiaxially oriented polymers are discussed in view of the different flow conditions. Copyright © 1983 Society of Plastics Engineers, Inc.