Sferulite

Sferulite is a type of crystal structure that forms in polymers and other materials during the process of crystallization. The term "sferulite" comes from the Greek word "sphaira," meaning sphere, and refers to the spherical or radial shape of these structures. Sferulites are commonly observed in amorphous polymers, such as polycarbonate and polystyrene, when they are cooled from a molten state. The formation of sferulites is influenced by various factors, including temperature, cooling rate, and the presence of nucleating agents. These structures can significantly impact the mechanical and optical properties of the material. Sferulites are characterized by their radial or spherulitic morphology, with a central nucleus surrounded by concentric layers of crystalline material. The size and shape of sferulites can vary depending on the specific conditions of crystallization. In some cases, sferulites can grow to form large, interconnected networks, which can affect the overall properties of the material. The study of sferulites is important in the fields of polymer science, materials engineering, and crystallography, as it provides insights into the mechanisms of crystallization and the structure-property relationships in polymers.