Two-dimensional computer simulation of spherulite formation by branching lamellae

Abstract

The structure formation of growing spherulites by branching lamellae is simulated by a computer model. In addition to the process of linear growth of lamellae, three different mechanisms are implemented in the simulation program: the fork-like branching of lamellae at their growth front (“front branching”), the generation of secondary lamellae at the sides of already existing lamellae (“side branching”) and the crystallization of lamellae parallel to existing lamellae (“clustering”). The simulation is performed stepwise and the branching takes place in dependence on branching probability and angle, leading to a multiplication of the lamellae and to disc-like superstructures. Moreover, the side branching as well as the clustering mechanisms result in a gradient of “density” (crystallized entities per area unit) inside the spherulites.