The latter also provides the interfacial adhesion needed in most systems for best performance. The use of random copolymers is particularly interesting since they are often much cheaper than diblocks. The final step in designing polymer blends is relating the stabilized morphology to properties valuable in commercial applications. This is becoming possible in structural applications where performance depends on impact strength and modulus. Super-high impact polymers with properties greatly exceeding those in commercial materials have been created.
Opportunities remain to be exploited in more specialized applications and markets.
The coalescence of droplets has been studied extensively but the final step in the coalescence process has been a mystery. Hydrodynamics predict that the droplets slow in their approach but never quite touch, much like a Greek paradox. A semi-empirical argument based on van der Waal's forces resolves the paradox for some but provides no physical insight. Nonlinear diffusion provides the answer and suggests methods for controlling coalescence rates. The interstitial fluid has a higher chemical potential and literally diffuses out of the way.