Surface segregation definition

The equilibriiun process of the surface segregation is possible only at the constant temperatru e of the melt. At conditions of the formation of filled alloys by transition from hquid to solid states, the segregation proceeds until the nec-essaiy molecular mobility is preserved in the system, i.e., up to ciystalhzation or vitrification temperature of one of the melt components. It means that sixrface segregation proceeds in non-equilibrimn conditions in the definite temperatru e interval. If the phase separation temperature is above glass transition or crystallization temperature, the surface segregation may proceed from each evolved phase separately. 

From this preliminary definition, we can conclude that, by taking advantage of this spontaneous phenomenon and considering the aspects that rule the migration of a particular component in a polymer blend we will be able to vary the surface behavior. In the next paragraphs of this chapter we illustrate how this phenomenon has been employed both to modify the chemical composition of the polymer surface and to produce nanostructured interfaces. Moreover, the adaptive/responsive behavior of the polymer blend surfaces as a function among others of the environment, temperature or pH will be also described. But first of aU we have to review the various parameters that require a consideration in order to obtain functional surfaces by segregation. 

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