Molecular Structure in Crystal Aggregates of Linear Polyethylene

A variety of properties -- chemical, electrical and mechanical -- have combined to make polyethylene an extremely important material in the telephone system. T h e sustained a t t e m p t to improve the characteristics of polyethylene for different applications depends very much on f u r t h e r understanding of the f u n d a m e n t a l structure and behavior of high polymer molecules. Unfortunately, high polymers manifest a tremendous range of structural organization, almost comparable in complexity with the simpler biological systems. Any simplification that can be obtained in the structural organization of a polymer is of inestimable value if the material is to be used for f u n d a m e n t a l study. T h e discovery t h a t well-developed crystals of linear polymers can readily be obtained from dilute solutions was made independently in several laboratories. 1 2 3 A lamellar-like habit and spiral growth terraces 1627 1G48 T H E H E L L SYSTEM T E C H N I C A L J O U R N A L , N O V E M B E R 191)0