2002 -09 -18
10 :15 at ML J 21

Uniaxial extension: Atomistic ordering in flow induced crystallization

Jan van Meerveld

Polymer Physics, Institute of Polymers, ETH Zurich

Flow induced crystallization can be roughly separated into three regimes: stretching in the FENE-regime of the polymer melt. In the last regime atomistic ordering is expected, which can in general only be achieved in fast uniaxial extension flows. Experimental observations of transitions in the crystallization behavior in PE and PET are described well by the model predictions. An experimental 'fingerprint' is suggested, which indicates the transition in crystallization behavior. In addition a stability condition is considered to determine the experimental (industrial) window where the influence of atomistic ordering on the flow induced crystallization dynamics can be investigated.