Conformations of comb-like macromolecules in a nematic phase The interpretation of small angle neutron scattering data

Abstract

The experimental data of Kirste and Ohm (1985, Makromolec. Chem. rap. Commun., 6, 179) and of Keler et al. (1985, J. Phys. Lett., Paris, 46, 1065) show that the mesogenic units tend to be perpendicular to the backbone segments in thermotropic liquid-crystalline polymers. Using a simple model (a comb-like freely jointed chain) an estimate is made for the second moment of the distribution of mesogens with respect to the backbone.