Every bit of information that circulates the internet across the globe is a pulse of light, that at some point will need to be converted to an electric signal in order to be processed by the electronic circuitry in our data centers, computers, and cell phones. Photodetectors (PD's) perform this conversion with ultra high speed and efficiency, in addition to being ubiquitously present in many other devices ranging from the mundane TV remote controls, to ultra high resolution instrumentation used in Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory (LIGO) that reach the edge of the universe and measure gravitational waves. The second edition of "Photodetectors" fully updates the popular first edition with updated information covering the state-of-the-art in modern photodetectors. The 2nd edition starts with basic metrology of photodetectors and common figures-of-merit to compare various devices. It follows with chapters that discuss single-photon detection with Avalanche Photodiodes; organic photodetectors that can be inkjet printed; and silicon-germanium PDs popular in burgeoning field of Silicon Photonics. Internationally recognized experts contribute chapters on one-dimensional, nanowire, PDs as well as high speed zero-dimensional, quantum dot, versions that increase the spectral span as well as speed and sensitivity of PDs and can be produced on various substrates. Solar-blind PDs that operate in harsh environments such as deep space, or rocket engines, are reviewed and new devices in GaN technology . Novel Plasmonic PDs, as well as devices which employ micro-plasma of confined charge in order to make devices that overcome speed limitation of transfer of electronic charge, are covered in other chapters. Using different, novel technologies, CMOS compatible devices are described in two chapters, and ultra high speed PDs that use low-temperature-grown GaAs (LT-GaAs) to detect fast THz signals are reviewed in another chapter. Photodetectors used in application areas of Silicon-Photonics and Microwave-Photonics are reviewed in final chapters of this book. All chapters are of a review nature, providing a perspective of the field before concentrating on particular advancements. As such, the book should appeal to a wide audience that ranges from those with general interest in the topic, to practitioners, graduate students and experts who are interested in the state-of-the-art in photodetection.

Graphene Quantum Dots: Biomedical and Environmental Sustainability Applications provides an overview of fundamentals and advances in applications of graphene quantum dots. Concepts covered include a brief introduction on the topic, an overview of structure and chemistry, fundamental properties of different characterization techniques, methods for the preparation of graphene quantum dots, and recent and emerging applications in various fields including antimicrobial therapy, bioimaging, biomedical tools development and clean energy for environmental sustainability. The book is a critical resource in materials selection for biomedical and environmental sustainability applications as well as various advanced imaging, disinfectant and environmental remediation technologies. As such, it is suitable for those in academia working in the discipline of materials science and engineering and practitioners working on biomedical tool development and environmental remediation.

Handbook of Thermoplastic Fluoropolymers: Properties, Characteristics and Data gathers key technical information about structure, characteristics, properties and processing methods of commercial thermoplastic fluoropolymers in one easy reference. Thermoplastic fluoropolymers have many desirable functional characteristics, such as high thermal stability, reliability at high mechanical loads, a wide range of operating temperatures, and high chemical and radiation stability. These characteristics make them crucial in many specialist applications, including in the military, biopharmaceuticals and environmental protection. This uniquely comprehensive guide to this versatile family of polymers will help processors, fabricators and end-users find new and innovative solutions. Detailed coverage of technical details of processing methods, characteristics, and chemical properties of commercial thermoplastic fluoropolymers all in one place make this the most authoritative reference to the subject available.

Nanomaterials for Bioreactors and Bioprocessing Applications explores the potential of nanomaterials in improving the efficiency of bioprocessing industries and next-generation bioreactors. The book provides information on various newly synthesized nanomaterials in bioreactors for scaling up the bioprocess to an industrial level, the criteria and properties of nanomaterials to be used in bioprocessing, advantages, challenges while using the nanomaterials, and the economic constraints. In addition, the book also discusses the fate of various nanomaterials in the bioprocess, the chances of product contamination and its prevention. This book is an important reference source for materials scientists and biomedical engineers information on the synthesized nanomaterials that are available for bioreactors and bioprocesses, and the various optimized conditions and precautions to be taken.

Biomaterials for Neural Tissue Engineering covers a range of materials and technologies used for regenerating or repairing neural tissue. With a strong focus on biomaterials and scaffolds, the book examines the testing and evaluation pathway for in-vitro and in-vivo testing trials. This book introduces the reader to the fundamentals of the nervous system from a tissue engineering perspective and goes on to describe contemporary technologies used in the development of neural repair materials, as well as currently available biomaterials suitable for neural tissue repair and regeneration. This detailed reference is ideal for those who are new to using biomaterials in tissue engineering, particularly those interested in the nervous system, including academics and early career researchers in the fields of materials science, regenerative medicine, biomedical engineering and clinical sciences.

Protein-based Nanocomposites for Tissue Engineering details the design, development, efficacy and tissue engineering applications of a range of protein-based nanocomposite materials. Protein-based nanocomposites offer advantageous properties in that they are biodegradable, biocompatible, nonantigenic, highly stable and possess strong binding capacity. These unique properties make protein-based nanocomposite carriers promising candidates for controlled cell delivery in tissue engineering. This book covers a selection of protein types in their nanocomposite form, from albumin and keratin to collagen and silk. Each protein nanocomposite is described in detail, exploring their application in cell delivery and tissue engineering. The design, development, properties and molecular mechanism of protein-based nanocomposites is thoroughly discussed before going on to analyze the advantages and limitations of these useful materials, making this book an ideal resource for readers who want to explore biocompatible and naturally derived material options for tissue engineering applications. Academics and researchers in the fields of materials science, biomedical engineering, regenerative medicine and nanotechnology will find the book a must have.

Principles of Biomaterials Encapsulation: Volume Two provides an expansive and in-depth resource covering the key principles, biomaterials, techniques and applications of encapsulation in translational medicine. The book details the various biomaterials available for encapsulation, including polymers, natural and synthetic biomaterials, porous materials, and more. The advantages and disadvantages of conventional and contemporary biomaterials for encapsulations are reviewed, along with advice on the most effective materials for both shell and core. The final part of the book describes a broad range of applications in regenerative medicine, uniquely bringing encapsulation into the worlds of translational medicine and tissue engineering. This book enables readers to learn about the pros and cons of different biomaterials for encapsulation, as well as how they can be utilized in many bodily systems and tissues, such as the respiratory, digestive, endocrine and cardiovascular systems. Written and edited by well-versed materials scientists with extensive clinical, biomedical and regenerative medicine experience, this book offers a deeply interdisciplinary look at encapsulation in translational medicine.

Green Sustainable Process for Chemical and Environmental Engineering and Science: Applications of Advanced Nanostructured Materials in Wastewater Remediation reviews recent applications of nanostructured materials for remediation, their preparation, characterization and efficiency for water remediation technologies. The book provides ideas on how nanomaterials are the real solution to water purification or new environmental threat. Sections cover nanomaterial adsorbents, functionalized magnetic nanomaterials, nanostructured polymer hydrogels, carbon nanomaterials, biogenic nanoparticles, green chemistry concepts, aqua defluoridation, and advanced remediation techniques. The book also includes the current status of wastewater treatment using nanomaterials, along with challenges and perspectives for further improvements.

Principles of Human Organs-on-Chips covers all aspects of microfluidic organ-on-a-chip systems, from fabrication to application and commercialization. Organ-on-a-chip models are created to mimic the structural, microenvironmental and physiological functions of human organs, providing the potential to bypass some cell and animal testing methods. This is a useful platform with widespread applications, frequently in drug screening and pathological studies. This book offers a comprehensive and authoritative reference on microfluidic organs-on-chips, spanning all key aspects from fabrication methods, cell culture systems and cell-based analysis, to dedicated chapters on specific tissue types and their associated organ-on-a-chip models, as well as their use as disease models, drug screening platforms and more. Principles of Human Organs-on-Chips helps materials scientists and biomedical engineers to better understand the specific requirements and challenges in the design and fabrication of organ-on-a-chip devices. This book also bridges the knowledge gap between medical device design and subsequent clinical applications, allowing medical professionals to easily learn about related engineering concepts and techniques.

Surface Modification and Functionalization of Ceramic Composites is intended for both experts and beginners, allowing them to have an extended overview of recent progress in the evolution of surface modification methods and functionalization for ceramic composites. The book provides a detailed summary of the various techniques that are currently available, along with an evaluation of the costs involved. Information on the relationship between surface properties and function is also discussed. There is also an additional section on commercial and industrial applications, including biomedical, sensing and energy. The book will be a valuable reference resource for researchers and an instructive and stimulating text for postgraduate students who want to enhance their knowledge on novel materials and surface modification and functionalization of ceramic composites.

Phytochemical Nanodelivery Systems as Potential Biopharmaceuticals comprehensively reviews current information on nanotechnology applied to phytochemical nanoencapsulation to enhance their bioavailability and bioactivity. The book is divided into two sections, the first section critically reviews current information on the field of nanotechnology and phytochemicals, and the second section highlights the pre-clinical and clinical studies of phytochemicals to comprehensively review the efficacy of these molecules as drugs of human use. Phytochemical Nanodelivery Systems as Potential Biopharmaceuticals provides a useful overview of this rapidly evolving field for materials scientists and pharmaceutical scientists, as well as for those with an interest in biopharmaceuticals from plant sources, such as organic chemists and food scientists.

Integrated Silicon-Metal Systems at the Nanoscale: Applications in Photonics, Quantum Computing, Networking, and Internet is a comprehensive guide to the interaction, materials, and functional integration at the nanoscale, of the silicon-metal binary system and a variety of emerging and next-generation advanced device applications, from energy and electronics, to sensing, to quantum computing and quantum internet networks. The book guides the readers through advanced techniques and etching processes, combining underlying principles, materials science, design, and operation of metal-Si nanodevices. Each chapter focuses on a specific use of integrated metal-silicon nanostructures, including storage and resistive next-generation nano memory and transistors, photo and molecular sensing, harvest and storage device electrodes, phosphor light converters, and hydrogen fuel cells, as well as future application areas, such as spin transistors, quantum computing, hybrid quantum devices, and quantum engineering, networking, and internet. This is a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students in nanomaterials and nanotechnology, electronics engineering, quantum computing, physics, and materials engineering, as well as for materials engineers, industrial scientists, and R&D professionals with an interest in silicon-metal nanodevices for state-of-the-art applications.

Biopolymers: Synthesis, Properties, and Emerging Applications presents the state-of-the-art in biopolymers, bringing together detailed information on synthesis strategies, processing and cutting-edge applications. The book begins by introducing the synthesis, processing and structural and functional properties of smart biopolymers and bionanocomposites. Subsequent chapters focus on the synthesis and preparation of biopolymers with valuable properties or for specific advanced applications, including piezoelectric properties, shape memory properties, biodegradable polymer blends, synthesis and assembly of nanomaterials, synthesis of green biopolymers, and catalytic synthesis of bio-sourced polyesters and polycarbonate, as well as applications in active food packaging, water purification, biomedicine, 3D printing, and automotive. Throughout the book, there are analyses of different synthesis strategies and processing methods and their role and use in different fields of application, whilst the important challenges relating to scalable processing and shaping and micro and nano structuration are also discussed. The book also strives to balance the synthetic aspects of biopolymers with physical principles, highlighting biopolymer-based architectures including composite or hybrid conjugates, providing in-depth discussion of important examples of reaction mechanisms, and exploring potential applications of biopolymer and conjugates, ranging from physical to chemical and biological systems.

Advances in Smart Nanomaterials and their Applications brings together the latest advances and novel methods in the preparation of smart nanomaterials for cutting-edge applications. The book covers fundamental concepts of nanomaterials, including fabrication methods, processing, application areas, specific applications of smart nanomaterials across a range of areas, such as agriculture and forestry, food science and packaging, biomedicine, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, energy, wastewater and environment, sensing, and textiles. In each case, possible challenges, recent trends, and potential future developments are addressed in detail. The final chapter of the book discusses various considerations for the utilization of smart nanomaterials, including environmental safety and legal requirements.

Natural Materials-based Green Composites 1: Plant Fibers explores several important plant fiber-based materials such as wood fibers, vegetable fibers, jute fibers, stalk fibers and hemp fibers. The book provides introductory information and various innovative applications of most important plant fiber-based materials such as wood fibers, vegetable fibers, jute fibers, stalk fibers, and hemp fibers.It investigates their structure and provides various innovative applications and discusses the microstructure of wood and mechanical properties of green wood-based composites (GWC), eco-friendly applications of green composites as building materials, and applications in wastewater treatment. The book also discusses seaweed and cotton fibers for their applications as adhesive and in reinforcement.The book is complemented by Natural Materials-based Green Composites 2: Biomass that deals with a broad range of material types, including natural fiber reinforced polymer composites, particulate composites, fiberboard, wood fiber composites, and plywood composite that utilize natural, renewable, and biodegradable agricultural biomass.

Liquid Crystal Polymer Nanocomposites summarizes, in a comprehensive manner, numerous modern technical research accomplishments on the development of nanocomposites from liquid crystalline polymers. It emphasizes various studies at the nano-scale, including discussions of liquid crystalline block copolymers, liquid crystalline epoxy nanocomposites, barrier property studies of liquid crystalline epoxy and their nanocomposites, liquid crystalline polymer-based microfibrillar and nanofibrillar composites, liquid crystalline polymer/nanoplatelet nanocomposites, liquid-crystalline elastomer/graphene oxide nanocomposites, and thermotropic liquid crystalline polymers. It provides detailed information on methods of preparation, the properties of these materials and a discussion on the structure-properties relationship. With an emphasis on data and experimental results, the book's authors illustrate how the liquid crystal structure can have an impact on the final properties of nanocomposite.

Structural Mechanics and Design of Metal Pipes: A systematic approach for onshore and offshore pipelines presents a unified and systematic approach to understanding and analyzing the structural behavior of onshore and offshore metallic pipelines. Following an overview of pipeline engineering and pipe fabrication, the mechanics of elastic rings and cylinders is presented as a prelude to structural performance of metal pipes under various loading conditions, which involve pressure and structural loads. The book also discusses special topics, such as geohazards and strain-based design, large-diameter water pipelines, global buckling and mechanically-lined pipes, and outlines approaches for developing state-of-the-art finite element models. In all topics addressed in this book, the mechanical behavior of pipes is related with specific design methods for onshore and offshore pipelines.

Biodegradable and Biocompatible Polymer Nanocomposites: Processing, Characterization, and Applications brings together the latest research, highlighting cutting-edge applications in this exciting field. Sections introduce biodegradable and biocompatible polymers and the fundamentals regarding synthesis, structure, properties, biocompatibility and biodegradability, provide in-depth coverage of methods and techniques for processing, spectroscopic and microscopic analysis, dielectric, thermal, and electrical conductivity, and incorporation of functionalized nanoparticles, and green synthesized nanoparticles. The second part of the book guides the reader through the properties and preparation of biodegradable and biocompatible polymer nanocomposites for a range of specific, targeted, state-of-the-art applications across biomedicine, electronic, energy storage, environment and packaging. Finally, sustainability assessment, environmental impact, and recycling strategies are discussed in detail.

Advanced Fibre-reinforced Polymer (FRP) Composites for Structural Applications, Second Edition provides updates on new research that has been carried out on the use of FRP composites for structural applications. These include the further development of advanced FRP composites materials that achieve lighter and stronger FRP composites, how to enhance FRP integrated behavior through matrix modification, along with information on pretension treatments and intelligence technology. The development of new technology such as automated manufacturing and processing of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have played a significant role in optimizing fabrication processing and matrix formation. In this new edition, all chapters have been brought fully up-to-date to take on the key aspects mentioned above. The book's chapters cover all areas relevant to advanced FRP composites, from the material itself, its manufacturing, properties, testing and applications in structural and civil engineering. Applications span from civil engineering, to buildings and the energy industry.

Advances in Healthcare and Protective Textiles addresses technologies that have had a major impact in industry for decades, but which are currently attracting unprecedented attention due to their applications in the fight against the Coronavirus epidemic. Recent advances in textile technology have opened new possibilities for textile researchers and scientists in antiviral textiles, flame-retardant textiles, antimicrobial textiles, insect repellent textiles, breathable medical textiles, aroma-protective textiles, high tech-textiles, smart textiles, nano textiles, and more. This book provides systematic and comprehensive coverage of cutting-edge research and developments on material design, methodologies, characterizations, processes, properties and applications of medical healthcare and protective textiles. In addition, sections pay special attention to advanced fabrication methodologies and materials used in apparel engineering.

Functionalized Nanofibers: Synthesis and Industrial Applications presents the latest advances in the fabrication, design, processing, and properties of functionalized nanofibers for a range of advanced applications. Sections introduce fabrication, mechanisms, and design of functionalized nanofibers, explaining electrospinning and non-electrospinning techniques, optimization of structural designs, surface functionalization techniques, and characterization methods. Subsequent sections focus on specific application areas, highlighting preparation methods and applications of functionalized nanofibers across biomedicine, surfaces and coatings, food, environment, energy, electronics, and textiles. Finally, environmental impact and safety and legal aspects related to the utilization of functionalized nanofibers are considered. This is a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students with an interest in nanomaterials and nanotechnology, and across other disciplines such as polymer science, chemistry, chemical engineering, and materials science and engineering.

Design and Manufacture of Structural Composites provides an overview of the main manufacturing challenges encountered when processing fibre-reinforced composite materials. Composites are unique in that the material is created at the same time as the structure, forming a very close link between the constituents, the manufacturing process and the resulting mechanical performance. This book takes an in-depth look at material choices and the intermediate steps required to convert different fibre and matrix combinations into finished products. It provides an insight into recent developments for each of the manufacturing processes covered, addressing design, cost, rate and mechanical performance. Topics covered include an introduction to composite materials, material preforming and conversion, moulding, digital design and sustainability, which addresses waste reduction, disassembly and fibre recovery. This book has been developed primarily as a teaching resource with contributions from leading experts in the field. The content has evolved from courses given by the authors to mechanical engineering and materials science students, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It also draws upon experience gained during research projects and from leading industry experts. It therefore provides non-specialists with a valuable introduction to composite manufacturing techniques, helping to determine the most suitable manufacturing routes and to understand the challenges associated with the production of high-performance composite components.

The Resource Utilization of Plastic Waste with Supercritical Water Treatment discusses the types of plastic analysis, material characterization, technical principles of supercritical water treatment of waste plastics, the structure and process of the experimental platform, the selection of process parameters, and the establishment of kinetic models in professional areas of the field.

Sulfur: History, Technology, Applications and Industry, Third Edition focuses on methods of production and their applications during various stages of industrial and technological use. Commercial sulfuric acid production from the early 16th century until today is reviewed, spanning the Ancient and Renaissance periods, the Industrial Age (to which sulfur was vitally important), and the Sulfur War of 1840. The book introduces "the Sulfur Age" and the processes of this period- such as the Nordhausen, Bell, and Leblanc methods- then goes onto review native sulfur production in Sicily, once a major supplier to the world. The "Frasch method" is also covered in detail. Moving to present day, the book presents "recovered" sulfur derived from sour gas and oil which constitutes 90% of today's elemental sulfur supply, and looks to Canada, a powerhouse supplier of recovered sulfur. An entire chapter is devoted to modern-day sulfur entrepreneurs, with a profile of various investors (from the reluctant to the private and institutional). Finally, the book forecasts the sulfur industry's future and potential supply sources, such as worldwide oil sands.

Handbook of Surface Improvement and Modification, Second Edition covers additives and the modification processes that determine the surface properties of many materials. These additives can modify or improve scratch and mar resistance, improve gloss or flatten the surface, increase or decrease tack and inhibit staining. Mechanisms of damage, protection and property improvements are also discussed, making this an essential handbook for engineers, researchers and technicians interested in using additives to modify and improve the surface properties of materials. A companion book, Databook of Surface Modification and Additives, is also available with more information on the additives commercially available to improve materials.