Production And Structure/Properties Of Nylon-6 Core / Isotactic Polypropylene Sheath Bicomponent Fibers Suitable For Use In Carpeting Applications T

Type of Document Master's Thesis
Author Godshall, David Leonard
URN etd-051799-222211
Title Production And Structure/Properties Of Nylon-6 Core / Isotactic Polypropylene Sheath Bicomponent Fibers Suitable For Use In Carpeting Applications
Degree Master of Science
Department Chemical Engineering
Advisory Committee
Advisor Name Title
Dr. Garth L. Wilkes Committee Chair
Dr. D.G. Baird Committee Member
Dr. R.M. Davis Committee Member
Keywords

* Compatabilization
* Fiber
* Maleic Anhydride
* Bicomponent

Date of Defense 1999-02-01
Availability unrestricted
Abstract

Bicomponent fibers consisting of nylon-6 and

isotactic polypropylene were produced. In-situ,

reactive compatibilization was achieved using a

maleic anhydride functionalized polypropylene

between the materials at the interface. The

overall goal of the research was to produce a

bicomponent fiber of these materials that would

be suitable for use in commercial carpet

applications. Carpet samples produced using

nylon-6 core / polypropylene sheath bicomponent

fibers displayed stain resistance comparable to

a wholly polypropylene carpet. The wear

characteristics of these fibers were found to be

strongly dependent upon the maleic anhydride

content and the molecular weight of the maleic

anhydride functionalized polypropylene. Adhesion

between the nylon-6 and polypropylene phases, and

the mechanical properties of the polypropylene

phase were affected by the addition of the

functionalized polypropylene. Additional

information regarding the processing conditions

necessary to produce fibers of the desired

cross-section from these materials was obtained

using capillary rheometry. A number of

analytical techniques including DSC, TGA, and

SEM were used to better understand the structure

of the maleated materials.

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