Transition measurements using differential thermal analysis techniques

Abstract

A system for the study of polymer structure by differential thermal analysis (DTA) techniques is presented. The need for an inert reference body has been eliminated by the use of a thermal delay within the sample itself. Typical data showing both first- and second-order transition behavior for appropriate polymers are presented. The applicability of the technique to liquids is also shown. Three first-order transitions have been found in trans-1,4-polybutadiene. The insoluble nature of high polymers in one another is again confirmed, even in those systems which disperse well. The latent heat of crystallization of cis-1,4-polybutadiene is about 2.1 kcal./mole.