Synthesis and characterization of polyethylene oxide and nylon-6 copolymer in a fiber form

A series of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and nylon-6 copolymers were synthesized through condensation reactions. The rheology of the prepared copolymers was tested using a capillary flow rheometer. The molar mass was investigated by performing basic analyses such as relative viscosity, gel permeation chromatograph, and amino-end group analysis. Their thermal properties were examined by differential scanning calorimetry, and the crystalline structure was determined using wide-angle X-ray diffraction. The results obtained from partially oriented yarn indicated a dramatically conversion from the ? form to the a form. Following the draw texture process, the a form dominated all draw textured yarn. Once the segments of PEO were introduced into the nylon-6 backbone, the moisture regain and qmax (warm/cool feeling) of the fabrics was enhanced remarkably. The surface resistivity of fabrics improved with increasing PEO content, which is mainly due to water absorption. (c) 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012