this invention relates in general to the formation of thick films having a biaxial molecular orientation . such films are prepared in accordance with the present invention from rod - like extended chain aromatic - heterocyclic ordered polymers . such films have high tensile strength , modulus , and environmental resistance characteristics . a preferred ordered polymer for use in the present invention is poly , , a compound having the structure : ## str1 ## the present invention is also directed to methods and apparatus suitable for producing biaxially oriented films , coatings , and like materials from ordered polymers , preferably pbt .