Dielectric behavior in an oriented β-PVDF film and chain reorientation upon transverse mechanical deformation

Abstract

Films of semicrystalline poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) in the β-phase have been studied by means of dielectric measurements and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The main goal of the study was to compare the dielectric relaxations of α- and β-PVDF and to improve the understanding of the structural changes that occur in β-PVDF during a mechanical deformation process and their impact in the electromechanical properties of the polymer. A reorientation of the chains and a decrease in the degree of crystallinity with increasing deformation was observed.