Storage shear modulus of columnar structure formed in an immiscible polymer blend under electric fields

Abstract

Oscillatory measurements of a columnar structure were performed, which was formed in an immiscible polymer blend subjected to an electric field. The formation process was observed through a confocal scanning laser microscope and the structure for the measurements was confirmed to be well defined. The storage shear modulus at low frequencies increased with increasing the electric field. A linear relation was found between the storage shear modulus and the square of the electric field. The static modulus calculated on the basis of the Maxwell stress exerted on the interface and interfacial tension was in good agreement with the experimental result. © 2009 The American Physical Society.