Exploring the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Poly-(Vinylidene Flouride), its Blends and Composites
ABSTRACT :
Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), a fluorinated polymer, is in the spotlight due to its versatile functionalities, especially for its potential as flexible ferroelectrics. The nobility of PVDF lies in its polymorphism, higher crystallinity, chemical stability, and stiffness, which render PVDF as a promising thermoplastic. A copious amount of work has been done in understanding the ferro, piezo, and pyroelectric nature of this polymer. Nevertheless, a colossal chasm exists in exploring the mechanical, dielectric, and microstructural properties of PVDF for exploiting its full potential in applications as a(n) sensor/ actuator. Thus we attempted to further understand the correlation between the physical and mechanical properties of PVDF homopolymer in various polymorphic phases, its blends, and composites. The main findings, such as the mechanical response of the α and β-phases of PVDF, tailoring the physical properties of the polymer by blending it with other polymers for specific applications, would be presented in detail.​