| Abstract: | Four blend systems (miscible binary polyester blends) have been examined by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). The ortho-Positronium pick off lifetime, τ3, is related to the mean free volume cavity size in these miscible blends. The measured free volume cavity size for the blends is compared to the size predicted from linear additivity of the homopolymers. A negative deviation from linear additivity is observed for τ3 in each of the blend systems, and this behaviour is interpreted as a contraction of the mean free volume cavity size due to the changes in molecular packing that occur on blending. The consequence of these free volume results for the mechanical properties of miscible polyester blends is discussed and tested for the polycarbonate/Kodar system. The glass transition data suggest weak specific interactions in the blends; however, the mechanical properties are significantly affected by blending. |
