Crystallization of the γ form in random propylene-ethylene copolymers

• Published in: Polymer international 2004-12, Vol.53 (12), p.2001-2008
• Main Authors: Marigo, Antonio, Causin, Valerio, Marega, Carla, Ferrari, Paolo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; calorimetry; copolymer; Crystallization; ethylene; Exact sciences and technology; Organic polymers; Physicochemistry of polymers; poly(propylene-ran-ethylene); polypropylene; Properties and characterization; X-ray diffraction
• ISSN: 0959-8103; 1097-0126
• DOI: 10.1002/pi.1613

Wide‐angle X‐ray scattering and differential scanning calorimetry measurements have been conducted on seven random copolymers of propylene with ethylene in order to study the γ phase formation as a function of the comonomer content. The lamellar morphology of the samples was also investigated by small‐angle X‐ray scattering. The content of the γ phase was found to go through a maximum with crystallization temperature and to increase with comonomer concentration, up to a point (ethylene ≥6.5 wt%) where the latter parameter became less influential. The multiple melting endotherms behaviour of the samples was studied by DSC and temperature‐controlled diffractometric techniques. The attribution of the DSC peaks to the different isotactic polypropylene polymorphs that form in these conditions was confirmed. The results obtained permitted us to ascertain that, in the experimental conditions chosen, some further formation of crystallites takes place during the quenching to room temperature after the crystallization isotherm. In this phase, the chains organize themselves in stacks with thin lamellae, forming a distinct population with respect to those formed on isothermal crystallization. The melting of the thinner lamellae determines a convergence of the two populations into just one, still retaining an organization in stacks, that gradually disappears until complete melting of the material. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry