Crystallization behavior of poly(l-lactic acid)

The crystallization behavior of poly(l-lactic acid) was studied in the range of 80-160 °C. The peak crystallization time (τp) was defined and obtained from the crystallization isotherm measured with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). Isothermal crystallization temperature (Tc) dependence of log(τp) discretely changed at 113 °C (= Tb). The linear growth rate of spherulite, G, was measured with a polarizing microscope. The Tc dependence of G and the size of the spherulite also discretely changed at Tb. Crystal structures for samples isothermally crystallized at temperatures which were higher and lower than Tb were orthorhombic (α-form) and trigonal (β-form), respectively. The discrete change of the crystallization behavior was explained by the formation of different crystal.