| The development of high performance polymeric materials is achieved by the use of synthetic organic chemistry and filler technology. Specifically, the synthesis and characterization of poly(paraphenylene)s (PPPs), poly(arylene ether ketone)s (PAEKs) and Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystal polymer composites are described. These materials have potential applications in automotive and aerospace industries.; A new synthetic methodology is described for the preparation of high molar mass poly(paraphenylene)s containing functional pendant and end groups. Poly(paraphenylene)s are synthesized by the Ni(0) catalytic coupling of bis(aryl halide)s. These polymers are reacted with various nucleophiles via aromatic substitution (SNAr) to produce derivatized PPP thermoplastics, graft copolymers and thermosets. In addition, thermally robust PAEKs containing a new monomer, 2,2′-bis-[-5-(4′-fluorobenzoyl)-thiophene], are described. These materials show excellent solvent resistance and processing properties for thermoplastic polymers.; Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystal powders, produced by gas atomization, are used as a filler in commercially available polymers. The novel properties of quasicrystals, including high hardness, low coefficients of friction, and low surface energy, are exploited to produce composites with excellent wear resistance. Performance properties of poly(p-phenylene sulfide), epoxies, poly(arylene ether ketone)s and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene and their Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystal composite counterparts are evaluated. In all cases, the addition of Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystals increases the wear resistance of a polymer matrix. These materials may find applications as bearings, gears, seals and other mechanical parts that undergo high levels of wear. In addition, the biocompatibility of Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystal/ultra high molecular weight polyethylene composites is assessed. These materials offer increased wear resistance with equal biocompatibility when compared to unfilled ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. These materials are targeted for medical applications including hip and other joint replacements. |
