Electron microscopy and quantitative polymer morphology

The lamellar nature of semi-crystalline polymers can now be studied systematically using transmission electron microscopy, especially following permanganic etching. In combination with thermal analysis and selective extraction followed by molecular characterisation, this approach allows the distribution of lamellae, thermal stability and molecular constitution to be mapped in real space. Extension of this methodology has allowed the extraction of individual melt-crystallized lamellae from bulk polymer. Their study is adding to understanding of fundamental processes of crystal growth.