Spherulite growth rates in binary polymer blends

This contribution provides an overview of the current state of art of spherulite growth rate in binary polymer blends. A detailed analysis of the various factors that contribute to increase or decrease the growth rate of spherulites is reported and supported by several examples. The reported results are discussed mainly with regard to miscibility of the components. Below the melting point, blends containing crystallizable polymers are heterogeneous systems, as the components separate from each other during solidification. However, miscibility within the remaining amorphous phase may still be possible and the homogeneity or heterogeneity of the amorphous phase affects the crystallization process. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.