Polymer Crystallization: Polycarbonate and Polybutene-1

The crystallization of polycarbonate from the glassy state was examined using thin ($\sim$1000A), solution cast films and thicker (0.16 and 1.5 mm) compression molded films. A detailed study of the crystallization process in the thin films, as observed by transmission electron microscopy, revealed that spherulites grew by a nucleation and growth process; no evidence of nodular aggregation or enhanced nucleation by nodules was seen. The growth rates of the spherulites as a function of temperature, measured by a repeat replica process, were found to fit the Hoffman-Lauritzen kinetic crystallization theory. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies in the thicker films revealed that crystallization, after an initial induction period, increased in rate with increasing temperature and decreasing molecular weight. A double melting peak, in the range of 210-235$\sp\circ$C was also found by DSC, this behavior was attributed to two populations of crystals differing in size and/or perfection, which could not be explained in terms of degradation or surface effects.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Metallurgical Engineering

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2014

Author dc:creator

• Skochdopole, Todd Richard

• Chemistry, Polymer
• Engineering, Materials Science

Identifier

(UMI)AAI8823251

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/71852