Continuous fabrication system for highly aligned polymer films provides method for tuning mechanical, thermal properties
A team of researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, MA have demonstrated a novel automated fabrication process consisting of a three-step sol-gel extrusion, structure freezing and drying, and mechanical drawing process which results in production of highly aligned polymer films. Alignment of molecular chains within polymers is a desirable trait for many applications as it results in superior mechanical and thermal properties in the polymeric materials. Although these highly aligned polymer films (HAPFs) are in demand, previous fabrication methods were limited to manual, lab-scale batch processes. This novel, scalable technology can enable deployment of low-cost and energy efficient polymer alternatives to traditionally used materials in heat transfer applications, such as electronic packaging and heat exchangers, with the additional advantages of energy savings, weight reduction, chemical resistance, and electrical insulation.