Abstract
Experimental patterns obtained using the small-angle light scattering technique for thin-film polymer studies are fraught with speckles arising from the effect of interspherulitic interference. The presence of speckles hampers efforts in characterizing the spherulitic structure. Using a divergent beam increases the number of scattering sites and results in a reduction of the degree of speckling. Nevertheless, this decimates the ability of analyzing the pattern at low-scattering angles. Employing an expanded collimated beam produces the same effect but necessitates the use of specially designed optical components. This article outlines a novel technique that involves simple vibration of the polymer sample. Experimental results confirm its efficacy in reducing speckles without limiting the ability for analysis at low-scattering angles.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 937-943 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Journal of Polymer Science, Part B: Polymer Physics |
Volume | 35 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 30 Apr 1997 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Characterization
- Small-angle light scattering
- Speckle
- Vibration