Self‐nucleation and enhanced nucleation of polymers. Definition of a convenient calorimetric “efficiency scale” and evaluation of nucleating additives in isotactic polypropylene (α phase)

A simple, convenient and reliable calorimetric efficiency scale is proposed for the evaluation of nucleating additives for polymers. The scale is based on conventional differential scanning calorimetry cooling runs and makes use of a crystallization range determined in self‐nucleation experiments. It can be correlated with spherulite sizes, and indicates the potential range of improvement of nucleating additives. Typical nucleating agents for isotactic polypropylene are evaluated; at best they rate at 60 to ca. 70% on this efficiency scale. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.