Phase transformation to β-poly(vinylidene fluoride) by milling

Cryogenic mechanical milling successfully converted a-phase poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) powder into beta-phase PVDF, as measured by wide-angle X-ray diffraction. The presence of beta-phase PVDF became more pronounced with increased milling times over the limited time range evaluated. This was the first recorded instance of beta-phase powders forming from the alpha phase through milling. These beta-phase powders maintained their crystal structure during compression molding at 70 degreesC. (C) 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 42: 91-97, 2004.