Elsevier Phase Transitions in Polymers - Metastable States

Explore the complex dynamics of polymer science with Phase Transitions in Polymers: The Role of Metastable States by Elsevier. This specialized text examines how classical metastable states function, noting that while they possess a local free energy minimum at infinite sizes, they lack a global one. This fundamental concept remains independent of phase size. Through an analysis of various experimental results, this work introduces a new concept regarding the wide range of metastable states found in polymers across different length scales. It details how metastability is determined by both phase size and dimensionality. The book also addresses phase transformations that are kinetically impeded on the path to thermodynamic equilibrium, providing clear illustrations through structural and morphological investigations. This resource is designed for those studying physical chemistry and the specific behaviors of polymer phase transitions.