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Crystallization Kinetics and Structural Perturbation in Poly(ethylene oxide)-Melamine Blends under Quiescent
Sarmad Ali1, Khurram Shehzad1, Mudassar Maraj2
1Institute of Solid-State Physics and Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic and Energy Conservation Materials, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, P. R. China.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|September 22, 2025
Summary
Melamine influences poly(ethylene oxide) crystallization by increasing nucleation but hindering crystal growth. This study reveals how small organic molecules regulate polymer structure via interfacial interactions.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
Background:
- Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) is a widely used polymer with versatile applications.
- Understanding polymer crystallization is crucial for tailoring material properties.
- Heterogeneous blends offer opportunities to modify polymer behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of melamine on the crystallization behavior of PEO.
- To elucidate the interfacial interactions between PEO and melamine.
- To provide a molecular-level understanding of polymer crystallization regulation.
Main Methods:
- In situ small-angle and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS).
- Optical microscopy, thermal analysis (DSC), and rheological measurements.
- Isothermal quiescent crystallization studies.
Main Results:
- Melamine increased nucleation density and spherulite density in PEO.
- Melamine restricted PEO chain mobility and suppressed long-range crystalline order.
- Hydrogen bonding between melamine and PEO likely caused extended relaxation times and hindered lamellar periodicity.
- Overall crystallinity of PEO decreased despite a slight increase in crystallization temperature.
Conclusions:
- Melamine acts as both a nucleating agent and a kinetic inhibitor in PEO crystallization.
- Interfacial coordination between small organic molecules and polymers can regulate crystallization.
- Findings offer insights for designing polymer-organic hybrid systems for energy storage, coatings, and packaging.
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