Study on the surface tensions of polymer melts using axisymmetric drop shape analysis

Abstract

Abstract It is shown that Axisymmetric Drop Shape Analysis (ADSA) is well‐suited for the study of polymer melt surface tensions. The technique is not restricted to equilibrium surface (interfacial) tensions; it is also suitable for measuring the time dependence (or kinetics) of surface tension of polymer melts. Results for three polymers, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene, at temperatures above 170°C are reported. Contrary to the well‐known decrease of surface tension in low molecular weight surfactant solutions as a result of equilibration, an increase in the melt surface tension is observed under isothermal conditions.