Surface energies of chain molecules from homogeneous nucleation

A model for the interpretation of homogeneous nucleation data for chain molecules is presented. The two surface energies σ_s and σ_e are related to interchain and intrachain bonding. Surface energies calculated from experimental data on n-alkanes from octane to dotriacontane and polyethylene agree with estimated values. The results are discussed in relation to surface energies measured from spherulite growth rates in polymers but these values are not known with sufficient reliability to provide a good basis for comparison.