NMR Microscopy of an “Anisotropic” Polymer

Abstract

AbstractTwo different samples of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) have been studied. One (isotropic) is extracted from the material core whereas the other (anisotropic) involves two sides which have been in contact with the injection mold. It is observed by NMR microscopy (using radiofrequency field gradients) that these two sides favor toluene penetration into the material. The distribution of toluene nuclear spin relaxation times (extracted from proton T1 and T2 images) exhibits likewise important differences between the two samples. These differences can be accounted for by partial molecular ordering at the vicinity of the “mold sides”. Finally, in investigating the anisotropic sample (without solvent), three different phases (two amorphous and one crystalline) are revealed by 13C chemical shift imaging experiments (performed with radiofrequency field gradients under CP/MAS conditions). Each amorphous component is preferentially present at one of the two “mold sides”.