Crystallization in oriented polymers: A framework for analyzing orientation distributions

A framework is presented for analyzing the changes that occur in the orientation distribution of polymer segments when crystallization occurs in an initially amorphous precursor. Existing theories which relate crystalline orientation distribution to that of the precursor can be incorporated in this framework in a straightforward manner. The orientation distribution of segments that remain uncrystallized is inferred from a kinetic analysis of the incorporation of precursor segments into growing crystals. The relevance of such a framework in understanding polymer fabrication processes is discussed briefly with examples in fiber formation from the melt.