Nonisothermal crystallization of polymers in samples of finite dimensions

Abstract

The formation and final form of spherulite pattern in samples of finite thickness, strips and plates, are described by means of the conversion degree, the rate of formation of spherulitic interiors and the distributions of distances from spherulites centers to spherulites interiors. Two model crystallization processes are considered: crystallization with instantaneous nucleation and isokinetic crystallization. The influence of the instantaneous nucleation at sample boundaries on the spherulitic structure formation is also discussed. The master curve approach for the processes considered is proposed. The results in analytical forms are verified by computer simulation of spherulitic crystallization in two- and three-dimensional samples of finite thickness.