Abstract: Final properties of parts processed from semicrystalline polymers are controlled by their molecular, supermolecular and microscopic structure. While the molecular structure is defined within polymerization by material producer, the supermolecular and microscopic structure of thermoplastics develop during the solidification at the end of processing of final parts. Several factors can influence the solidification, i.e. crystallization, of polymer melt, e.g. thermodynamic and flowing conditions and, particularly, addition of heterogeneous nucleating agents. The introduction of heterogeneous nucleating agent can serve as a powerful tool for controlling of the morphology and consequently properties of final plastics part. The lecture will be focused on heterogeneous nucleation in general and the examples of successful use of specific nucleation in chosen plastics application.

Brief Biography of the Speaker:
Dr. Roman CERMAK, associate professor and head of the Department of Polymer Engineering, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Faculty of Technology, Zlin, Czech Republic. At the same university, he got M.Sc. (2001) and Ph.D. (2005) degrees. His scientific interest is focused on the interrelations between processing, structure and properties of polyolefins. He is author of more than 80 papers and conference contributions.