Strategy to Modify the Crystallization Behavior of EVOH32 through Interactions with Low-Molecular-Weight Molecules

EVOH32 is a semicrystalline copolymer with high barrier performances and therefore suitable for packaging applications. In order to improve its processability through a decrement of its crystallization temperature from the molten state, EVOH32 was mixed with a wide range of low-molecular-weight additives. The strategy is based on the possibility that the additives create hydrogen or covalent bonds with the OH groups of the EVOH main chains, thus influencing the crystallization process. Interesting correlations between the chemical nature of the functional groups present in the organic molecules and their effect on the polymer crystallization have been found. 3,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid turns out to be the most effective molecule to decrease the crystallization temperature of EVOH32. (Figure Presented).