An etch technique for morphological studies of multiphase polymers containing polycarbonates

Abstract

An etch technique for studying the morphology of multiphase polymers containing a polycarbonate phase, based on the alkaline hydrolysis of polycarbonates, is described. The application of this technique to polycarbonate/polystyrene blends is illustrated. Difficulties which can occur in applying this technique to crosslinked materials under conditions such that only partial phase separation exists are discussed.