Semicrystalline Polymers: Lamellar Structure & Nucleation Kinetics

This lecture delves into the structure of semicrystalline polymers, focusing on lamellar constitution and nucleation kinetics. Topics covered include the formation of polymeric single crystals, factors influencing the melting temperature, and the morphology of spherulites. The instructor explains the molecular weight dependence on crystallization, the influence of chain rigidity, and the impact of specific intermolecular interactions on crystallization enthalpy. The lecture also explores the kinetics of nucleation, the role of time as a limiting factor, and the properties of different polyethylene types. Additionally, it discusses the twinning phenomenon in spherulitic structures and the formation of 'shish-kebab' structures in conventional fibers.