Influence of Long-Branched Chains on the Crystallization Behavior of Polyglycolide

The long-chain branching (LCB) polyglycolide (PGA) was synthesized through a two-step functional-group reaction method, followed by comprehensive investigation into its crystallization behavior. The influence of the hydrogen bonding and branching degree on PGA crystallization behavior was investigated across different temperatures under isothermal and nonisothermal crystallization conditions. The crystal growth process, crystal morphology, and structural evolution of PGA crystals during high-temperature processes were systematically studied using attenuated total refraction, polarized optical microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry tests. Findings indicate a synergistic influence of hydrogen bonds and branched chains on the crystallization behavior of PGA. During the crystallization process, both hydrogen bonds and the branching points of LCB exhibit nucleation effects, considerably increasing the crystallization rate of PGA.