Development of self-reinforced polymer composites

This paper reviews the development of single-polymer or self-reinforced composites (SRCs), including the fundamental sciences such as design principles and mechanisms, as well as their preparation techniques and potential application areas. The advantages of such SRC systems include the ability to achieve excellent interfaces between components, their pure chemical functionality, and their higher value as recyclable products due to their relative homogeneity compared to composites composed of different classes of components. Single-polymer composites are particularly important in biomaterials applications, since any additives composed of different chemicals could affect biocompatibility and biodegradation. Various techniques used to design and produce SRCs have been investigated and developed, such as hot compaction, overheating, solution, partial dissolving, cool drawing, physical treatment and chemical modification. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. At. rights reserved.