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Updated: Aug 7, 2026

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Published on: November 30, 2020
Initial crystallization mechanism of isotactic polystyrene from different States
Jianming Zhang1, Yongxin Duan, Harumi Sato
1Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Technology, Research Center for Environment Friendly Polymers, Kwansei-Gakuin University, Gakuen, Sanda 669-1337, Japan.
Investigating isotactic polystyrene crystallization, this study reveals distinct cold- and melt-crystallization pathways. Differences in kinetics, crystallinity, and spectral changes suggest varied spinodal decomposition origins before polymer crystallization.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Materials Science
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Isotactic polystyrene (iPS) exhibits complex crystallization behavior.
- Understanding polymer crystallization from different initial states is crucial for material property control.
- Spinodal decomposition can precede crystallization, influencing final morphology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the isothermal crystallization of iPS at 160°C.
- To compare cold-crystallization (from glassy state) and melt-crystallization (from melt state) processes.
- To elucidate the role of spinodal decomposition in different crystallization pathways.
Main Methods:
- Isothermal crystallization experiments at 160°C.
- Infrared (IR) spectroscopy to monitor structural changes.
- Generalized two-dimensional (2D) IR correlation spectroscopy for sequential analysis.
Main Results:
- Cold- and melt-crystallization processes show distinct kinetics and final crystallinity.
- Sequential changes in amorphous and crystalline sensitive IR bands differ significantly between the two processes.
- Observed spectral differences indicate varying physical origins of spinodal decomposition.
Conclusions:
- The crystallization pathway significantly impacts iPS structure evolution.
- Spinodal decomposition mechanisms preceding crystallization are dependent on the initial state (glassy vs. melt).
- IR and 2D IR correlation spectroscopy are powerful tools for differentiating complex polymer crystallization processes.
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