Thermodynamics of polymer systems

Summary Gas chromatography has been employed to determine partial molar free energies of sorption, C₁ ^s, as well as partial molar free energies of mixing, C₁ , of atactic poly(styrene) with linear and branched alkanes (C₆-C₉), alkenes (C₈), cyclohexane and alkylbenzenes (Ph-H to PhC₆H₁₃) within the temperature range from 403 to 463 K. The influence of nature and constitution of the solute molecule on sorption and mixing properties in poly(styrene) are discussed in terms of the competing group contributions of the components. Knowledge of this influence may be transduced to understand polymer-polymer compatibility. The cohesive energy density concept has been used to calculate the infinite dilution solubility parameter for the polymer, with the aid of G ₁ . From the high temperature range the HILDEBRAND parameter ₂ was extrapolated to 298 K. The value obtained, 9.14, indicates that gas chromatography is an promising alternative to the conventional methods for determination of the solubility parameter for polymers.Herrn Prof. Dr. R. C. Schulz zu seinem 65. Geburtstag herzlichst gewidmet