1. What is Volume Fraction of Crystalline Components?

Definition: Volume Fraction of Crystalline Components is defined as the volume of a crystalline component divided by the volume of all components present in a polymer.

Purpose: This calculation helps materials scientists understand the composition and properties of semi-crystalline polymers.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \varepsilon_c \) — Volume fraction of crystalline components
• \( \rho \) — Density of specimen (kg/m³)
• \( \rho_a \) — Density of amorphous component (kg/m³)
• \( \rho_c \) — Density of crystalline component (kg/m³)

Explanation: The formula calculates the proportion of crystalline material based on density differences between the components.

3. Importance of Volume Fraction Calculation

Details: Knowing the crystalline fraction helps predict material properties like strength, transparency, and thermal resistance in polymers.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the specimen density, amorphous component density (default 320 kg/m³), and crystalline component density (default 510 kg/m³). All values must be > 0 and ρ꜀ > ρₐ.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical density for amorphous polymers?
A: Common amorphous polymers range from 900-1200 kg/m³ (e.g., polystyrene ~1050 kg/m³).

Q2: What's a typical density for crystalline polymers?
A: Crystalline regions are denser, with polyethylene ranging 950-1000 kg/m³ in amorphous regions and 1000-1200 kg/m³ in crystalline regions.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate but assumes perfect two-phase system without impurities or defects.

Q4: What if I get a result > 1 or < 0?
A: Check your input values - this indicates impossible densities (ρ must be between ρₐ and ρ꜀).

Q5: How is specimen density measured?
A: Typically using density gradient columns or pycnometry techniques.