Postcondensation and oxidation processes in molten polyamide 6

Abstract Polyamide samples were heated under vacuum or mixed in a Brabender plastograph. UV absorbance, chain end concentration, and molecular weight were studied. Postcondensation was observed for polyamide heated under vacuum. For polyamide samples mixed in the plastograph, atmosphere, shear rate, and temperature changed. Melt viscosity and intrinsic viscosity are in good correlation in a log‐log plot. Oxidation effect on molecular weight and amine chain end concentration could be well related to UV absorbance. The oxygen diffusion into the molten polyamide is a critical parameter. The oxygen concentration in the polyamide mixed under air is ca. 20 times higher than when mixed under nitrogen. The introduction of preoxidized material in the molten polyamide or mixing in the presence of oxygen have similar effects. Postcondensation and oxidation strongly influence the melt behavior of polyamides. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.