Jack L. Koenig

Raman spectra are reported from single crystals of graphite and other graphite materials. Single crystals of graphite show one single line at 1575 cm−1. For the other materials like stress-annealed pyrolitic graphite, commercial graphites, activated charcoal, lampblack, and vitreous carbon another line is detected at 1355 cm−1. The Raman intensity of this band is inversely proportional to the crystallite size and is caused by a breakdown of the k-selection rule. The intensity of this band allows an estimate of the crystallite size in the surface layer of any carbon sample. Two in-plane force constants are calculated from the frequencies.

The third edition of this well known textbook discusses the diverse physical states and associated properties of polymeric materials. The contents of the book have been conveniently divided into two general parts, 'Physical States of Polymers' and 'Characterization Techniques'. Written by seven of the leading figures in the polymer science community, this third edition has been thoroughly updated and expanded. As in the second edition, all of the chapters contain general introductory material and comprehensive literature citations designed to give newcomers to the field an appreciation of the subject and how it fits into the general context of polymer science. Containing numerous problem sets and worked examples this third edition provides enough core material for a one semester survey course at the advanced undergraduate or graduate level.

Raman spectroscopy is used to characterize the fiber surface of graphite and carbon fibers. A correlation exists between the Raman spectrum of the fiber surface and the shear strength of the com posite. Effects of surface treatments are reflected in the Raman spec trum as well as the shear strength of the composite. Many graphite fibers have a weak surface layer where the graphite planes are oriented parallel to the surface.