Swelling of solution-grown crystals of polyethylene: Some observations made by use of small-angle x-ray diffraction and low-frequency Raman spectroscopy

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Abstract
A study of the effect of swelling agent on mats of polyethylene crystallized from solution has been made and the first large systematic difference between x-ray and Raman values of lamellar thickness is demonstrated. The small decrease in LAM frequency observed on swelling is discussed against the background of current LAM theories. Attention is drawn to different possible interpretations of the LAM data. Measurements of x-ray long spacings in repeated swelling experiments indicate that the ability of mate to swell is decreased. These results are considered together with recently published literature and implications for the improvement of crystal perfection are discussed. Earlier works on swelling have indicated that the swelling effect involves a layer of a few loose chains rather than the majority of the folds at the lamellar surfaces. The results herein are consistent with this view.

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