Strain crystallization

Strain crystallization occurs when the chains of molecules in a material become ordered during deformation activities in some polymers and elastomers.

[2] The three primary factors that affect strain crystallization are the molecular structure of the polymer or elastomer, the temperature, and the deformation being applied to the material.

[3] If a polymer's molecular structure is too irregular, strain crystallization can not be induced because it is impossible to order the chains of molecules.

[1] This effect of strain crystallization can be viewed in vulcanized natural rubber, a material that is known for its toughness and tensile stress.

[3] There are various techniques for measuring crystallization in rubber, including: x-ray diffraction, specific heat changes, and density changes.