Studies on the Crystallization and Melting Behavior of Poly(ethylene 2,6-naphthalate)

Abstract

Crystallization behaviour of low molecular weight (oligomeric) and high molecular weight poly(ethylene 2,6-naphthalate)s (PEN) was studied using wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXS) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). It was found that the crystallization conditions determine the nature of crystalline modification. Crystallization from the glassy state gives a-modification, whereas, crystallizing from the melt above 220°C results in β-modification. In contrast, the oligomers gives both the modifications up on crystallizing from the melt. The equilibrium melting temperatures of PEN were determined from DSC experiments, based on conditions of crystallization of a and β-modifications.

Key Words:

• Poly(ethylene 2,6-naphthalate)
• Crystallization
• Crystalline modifications