The binary Flory-Huggins interaction parameters for the ternary membra
ne-forming system nylon, formic acid and water have been obtained from
literature data, swelling values and melting point depression. Nylon
4,6 nylon 6 and a copolymer of nylon 4,6 and 6 were examined. The isot
hermal crystallization boundaries were determined experimentally and t
he binodal miscibility gap was calculated for these ternary systems. I
t was found that the crystalline state is the thermodynamically favour
able state for each system. Experimental data and calculated phase dia
grams are discussed in relation to membrane formation. Although the th
ermodynamic properties of the system dictate the phase separation that
can take place, the kinetic parameters are of equal significance with
respect to membrane formation. (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd.