| Abstract: | Samples of poly(vinylidene fluoride) with weight average molecular weights between 100,000 to 500,000 were analyzed using differential scanning calorimetry to study the influence of molecular weight on crystallization. Isothermal crystallization from the melt was investigated between 140 and 145°C. Crystallization rates were analyzed in terms of the Avrami equation. Avrami exponents between 3 and 11 were observed depending upon the microstructure, molecular weight, and cooling rate. The midrange molecular weight samples were found to crystallize slower than the high and low molecular weight materials. |
