Polymer crystallization process at high supercooling: Crystallization with nodular aggregation region near the glass transition

Polymer crystallization has been treated as the formation mechanism of lamellae based on secondary nucleation. This treatment has well explained many experimental results especially at a low supercooling. On the other hand, it is also known that some experimental results cannot be fully explained by this model when the degree of supercooling is large. This Feature Article reviews our recent studies on polymer crystallization at a high supercooling. We have revealed the evidence of the crystallization process through the mesophase at a higher supercooling. In addition, we have found the crystallization process with the nodular aggregation near the glass transition temperature. These processes are of great interest for the understanding of polymer crystallization. [Display omitted] •Polymer crystallization at a low supercooling can be treated as the formation mechanism of lamellae based on secondary nucleation.•At a higher supercooling, the crystallization process through the mesophase has been confirmed in some polymers.•The crystallization process with the nodular aggregation has been found near the glass transition temperature.•These processes are of great interest for the understanding of polymer crystallization.