The interface dynamics of bicontinuous phase separating structure in a polymer blend

Abstract

The time evolution of the phase separating pattern during the spinodal decomposition (SD) of a specimen was observed at the same volume of the specimen using X-ray computerized microtomography (X-ray CT). A careful examination of time-dependent three-dimensional (3D) images revealed that bridge-like domains played an important role in the phase separation dynamics. In the course of the SD, some bridge-like domains became thicker, while the others became thinner. It was found that the pressure difference across the interface, which is quantified through the mean curvature of the interface, influences such interface dynamics. © 2009 IOP Publishing Ltd.