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Nucleation control in polymer crystallization: structural and morphological probes in different length- and
Stephen Z D Cheng1, Bernard Lotz
1Maurice Morton Institute and Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325-3909, USA.
Summary
Polymer crystallization involves overcoming energy barriers and entropy loss. This study identifies key molecular selection processes governing polymer crystallization, linking macroscopic transitions to molecular behavior.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Physical Chemistry
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Polymer crystallization is a thermodynamically complex first-order transition.
- Developing molecular kinetic models for polymer crystallization remains challenging.
- Understanding the conversion of random polymer chains to ordered crystalline states requires addressing entropy loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the dynamic molecular pathways and selection processes in polymer crystallization.
- To establish fundamental principles governing polymer crystallization.
- To bridge the gap between macroscopic thermodynamic concepts and molecular-level behavior.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of experimental observations including stem configurations, helical conformations, and crystal structures.
- Investigation of fold lengths and global macromolecular conformations.
- Examination of lamellar single-crystal morphologies.
Main Results:
- Identification of distinct selection processes occurring at various length- and time-scales during crystallization.
- Experimental data used as probes to elucidate these molecular selection mechanisms.
- Insights into the physical picture of chain-folding despite entropic penalties.
Conclusions:
- Polymer crystallization involves multiple hierarchical selection processes.
- These processes are crucial for understanding the transition from random coils to crystalline structures.
- The study provides a foundation for developing more accurate molecular kinetic models.