Optical Anisotropy

Abstract

Macromolecular coils are deformed in flow, while optically anisotropic parts (and segments) of the macromolecules are oriented by flow, so that polymers and their solutions become optically anisotropic. This is true for a macromolecule whether it is in a viscous liquid or is surrounded by other chains. The optical anisotropy of a system appears to be directly connected with the mean orientation of segments and, thus, it provides the most direct observation of the relaxation of the segments, both in dilute and in concentrated solutions of polymers. The results of the theory for dilute solutions provide an instrument for the investigation of the structure and properties of a macromolecule. In application to very concentrated solutions, the optical anisotropy provides the important means for the investigation of slow relaxation processes. The evidence can be decisive for understanding the mechanism of the relaxation.