Phase Transitions in Polymers: The Role of Metastable States

A classical metastable state possesses a local free energy. This concept is phase size independent. We have a concept of metamorphosis in the field of metamorphosis. Metastable states are also observed in phase transformations that are kinetically impeded on the pathway to thermodynamic equilibrium. This was illustrated in the structural and morphological investigations of crystallization and mesophase transitions, liquid-liquid phase separation, vitrification and gel formation. The phase behaviours in polymers are dominated by interlinks of metastable states on different length scales. Concept This concept This concept a concept a many a many a many a concept a concept a.

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Foreword. Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Thermodynamics and kinetics of phase transitions. 3. Concepts of metastable states. 4. Metastable states in phase transitions of polymers. 5. Metastable states observed due to phase transformation kinetics in polymers. 6. Interdependence of metastable states on different length scales in polymers. 7. Outlook - A Personal View. Index.