This research involved extrusion of a thermotropic liquid crystal polymer through a converging die. Mechanical properties of the extrudates were determined. Scanning Electron Microscopic analysis was also performed.
Melt viscosity of the material in liquid crystalline state became very low. This low viscosity caused serious processing problems.
Once processed material was again extruded in single screw extruder. Mechanical properties of recycled material were observed to be relatively low in comparision to the new material.
Because of processing limitations, ultra-high mechanical properties could not be induced in this research. But it may still be possible to obtain these properties in liquid crystalline state and elongational Flow Field. Also, crystallization of extrudate before exiting the die and moderate pressure should enhance the properties.