Poly ( acrylic acid ) + zinc diacetate composites : High temperature service and electric conductivity

Poly(acrylic acid) + zinc diacetate hybrid composites have been prepared by precipitation from aqueous solutions and drying. The lowest glass transition temperature Tg determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is 392°C, providing a service temperature range unusually large for polymer-based materials (PBMs). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) shows that thermal decomposition begins some 10–20 K above each Tg. The alternating current impedance was determined in the nitrogen atmosphere from 370°C to 530°C. Dynamic dielectric measurements were performed between 20°C and 350°C, also under nitrogen. In contrast to typical PBMs, there is evidence of ionic conduction in some of the composites. The dynamic dielectric properties depend on the composition. The materials obtained are usable in medical applications and as high durability low friction coatings.