Fourier-transform Infrared Dichroism Investigation of Molecular Orientation in Model Networks of Poly(dimethylsiloxane)

Abstract

Molecular orientation in uniaxially stretched model networks of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) is investigated by Fourier-transform infrared dichroism. Precise determination of the dichroic effects, in the mid- as well as in the near-infrared range, are obtained by polarization modulation of the incident electromagnetic field. Introduction of a reinforcing filler such as silica in PDMS leads to an increase in orientation, attributed to a higher microscopic strain in the elastomeric part.