Macromolecules, Vol.34, No.23, 8156-8159, 2001
Anisotropic nature of open volume "defects" in highly crystalline polymers
We assess the size and shape of the free volume holes in crystalline polyethylene fibers (crystallinity similar to 85%) via the measurements of confinement momenta of parapositronium trapped within these holes. The holes show considerable anisotropy and a shape that is compatible with those created by chain folds buried in the crystal lattice. We estimate their sizes to be similar to8 and 5 Angstrom in two perpendicular directions. These are also compatible with those argued from the lattice parameter and other geometrical considerations.