Structure development in melt spinning and drawing poly ether ether ketone (peek) fibers.

Abstract

A study of the development of crystallinity and orientation in the melt spinning and drawing of poly ether ether ketone fibers is presented. Melt spun fibers are characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, birefringence, and wide angle x-ray diffraction. These fibers were subsequently drawn at 160°, 180°, and 230°C. The drawn fibers were characterized by the same techniques as the melt spun fibers. Uniaxial stress-strain behavior, tensile strength, and elongation to break characteristics have been determined and correlated with fiber structure. Particularly important results are that drawdown ratios and spinline stresses can induce significant crystallization in the spinline. Correlations of fiber mechanical properties are developed with spinline stress and birefringence.