Flory-Huggins theory polymer thermodynamics, crystalline

Using Flory-Huggins theory it is possible to account for the equilibrium thermodynamic properties of polymer solutions, particularly the fact that polymer solutions show major deviations from ideal solution behavior, as for example, the vapor pressure of solvent above a polymer solution invariably is very much lower than predicted from Raoult s law. The theory also accounts for the phase separation and fractionation behavior of polymer solutions, melting point depressions in crystalline polymers, and swelling of polymer networks. However, the theory is only able to predict general trends and fails to achieve precise agreement with experimental data. [Pg.156]

The adsorption of polymers from solutions strongly depends on the thermodynamic quality of solvent and the interaction energy between polymer and surface. All theories of adsorption include the thermodynamic parameter of interaction of the Flory-Huggins theory %i2. The thermodynamic interaction between polymer and solvent determines the conformation of macromolecules in solutions and thus the conditions of its interaction with the surface. The interaction between polymer and surface is characterized by the parameter of thermodynamic interaction, which was introduced by Silberberg, using the model of quasi-crystalline lattice of the surface layer, describing the properties of polymer solutions. This parameter may be determined as follows ... [Pg.17]