Study on the surface tensions of polymer melts using axisymmetric drop shape analysis

It is shown that Axisymmetric Drop Shape Analysis (ADSA) is well-suited for the study of polymer melt surface tensions. The technique is not restricted to equilibrium surface (interfacial) tensions; it is also suitable for measuring the time dependence (or kinetics) of surface tension of polymer melts. Results for three polymers, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene, at temperatures above 170 degrees C are reported. Contrary to the well-known decrease of surface tension in low molecular weight surfactant solutions as a result of equilibration, an increase in the melt surface tension is observed under isothermal conditions.