Crystallization and Self-Organization during Dryness of Polymer Solutions and Suspensions

Convectional, sedimentation and drying dissipative patterns during the course of dryness of solutions and suspensions including polymer solution are reviewed. The whole processes of convection were analyzed in the seven steps: irregular circulation accompanied with the upward heat transportation, global convectional flow from the central area toward outside edge at the surface layers of liquid, cooperative formation of distorted Benard cells, reversal of the global flow of convection, growing of the spoke lines from the outside edge toward central area at the liquid surface layers, cluster and further bundle formation of the spoke lines, and the convectional flow by the pinning effect. The sedimentary colloidal particles were suspended above the substrate by the electric double layers and moved by the balancing of the external force fields including convectional flow and sedimentation. Principal macroscopic drying patterns are broad rings and spoke lines. Microscopic patterns such as star, needle, street road, string and cross-like are formed. The stratified structures form from micro to macro scales. Information on the size, shape, conformation, flexibility and/or solute concentration of polymers and particles is transferred cooperatively toward drying patterns, and further accompanied with the amplification and selection processes during the course of dryness.