Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026

Thin Film Composite Silicon Elastomers for Cell Culture and Skin Applications: Manufacturing and Characterization
Published on: July 3, 2018
Molecular weight segregation on surfaces of polyethylene blended films as estimated from nanoscratch tests using
Jun-Ichi Suwa1, Masaki Kakiage, Takeshi Yamanobe
1Department of Chemistry, Gunma University, Kiryu, Gunma 376-8515, Japan.
Abstract:
Nanoscratch tests using scanning probe microscopy (SPM) were performed on films prepared from two polyethylene (PE) materials polymerized by using a metallocene catalyst system with different molecular weights (MWs). Blended samples were prepared by dissolving both PE materials at various ratios in hot p-xylene. The pure and blended samples were compression molded into films at 180 degrees C for different holding times in the molten state. The results of SPM nanoscratch tests with an applied load of 30 nN indicated that the lower-MW surface could be easily plowed with wear debris but the higher-MW surface was less deformed. However, the deformation pattern of the blended film surface was similar to that of the lower-MW surface. These results suggest that MW segregation occurs during holding in the molten state as lower-MW components rise to the film surface.
Related Concept Videos
Polymers: Molecular Weight Distribution
Determination of Molar Masses of Polymers II
Molecular Weight of Step-Growth Polymers
As the step-growth polymerization involves step-wise condensation of monomers, the molecular weight also builds up eventually. Consequently, high molecular weight polymers are obtained at the late stages of the polymerization, where 99% of monomers have been consumed.
The extent of the...
Polymers: Defining Molecular Weight
The number average molecular weight (Mn) is the summation of the number...
Determination of Molar Masses of Polymers I

