Abstract
The microstructure of amorphous polyethylene below its glass transition temperature is described in some detail. The dimensions, shape and statistical mechanics of a polyethylene chain are already well understood. The packing of such molecular chains is less understood and it is considered here in terms of a CH2 pair distribution function. The pair distribution function is derived on the basis of (i) the variation of specific volume with temperature for completely amorphous and ideally crystalline polyethylene, and (ii) randomness of packing of the molecular chains. A scheme for the description of deformation of amorphous polymers is proposed. Points of constriction along the molecular chain are defined in terms of variation of cross-sectional area of the molecular tube. During deformation the points of constriction are convected with the body of the polymeR. However, the deformation of the chain segment between the points of constriction is analysed in terms of kinematics of chain linkages.
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