Critical review on the molecular topology of semi-crystalline polymers : origin and assessment of the inter-crystalline tie molecules and chain entanglements
Résumé
Intercrystalline molecular connections in semicrystalline polymers have been the subject of numerous discussions and controversies. Nevertheless, there is one point of agreement: such intercrystalline tie molecules have a prime role in the mechanical and use properties of the materials, notably the resistance to slow crack growth. This article is a critical review of the mechanisms of generation of the tie molecules during the stage of crystallization and of the experimental and theoretical assessment of their concentration. Polyethylene and related materials are mainly studied. The contribution of chain entanglements is also discussed in parallel with tie molecules. Particular attention is paid to Huang and Brown's statistical approach, which appears to be the most appropriate one for predictive purposes and has aroused much interest from various authors. Attempts are made to provide solutions to the shortcomings of this model.