Circularity of Plastics: Sustainability, Emerging Materials, and Valorization of Waste Plastic takes an innovative, interdisciplinary approach to circularity and sustainability in plastics, with an emphasis on plastic waste and end-of-life treatment and options for recycling, re-use, valorization and development of biomass-based polymers. The book introduces key concepts of sustainable materials, the circular economy, and lifecycle assessment, and discusses challenges in the valorization of waste. Other sections cover the upcycling of waste plastic into new materials and fuels, with dedicated chapters exploring state-of-the-art techniques for conversion to new sustainable polymers, fuel, fine chemicals and carbon nanomaterials. Emerging technologies used to produce functional polymers from renewable feedstocks, including CO2, biomass, natural polymers, polylactic acid (PLA), and polyhydroxyalkanoate-based materials (PHAs) are then explored, with a final chapter focusing on applications of sustainable materials, challenges, and future perspectives. This is a valuable resource for researchers, scientists, engineers, R&D professionals, and advanced students from a range of disciplines and backgrounds, with an interest in sustainable materials, circularity in plastics, and polymer waste and valorization.

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.

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.

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.

Functionalized Nanomaterials for Biosensing and Bioelectronics Applications: Trends and Challenges describes current and future opportunities for integrating the unique properties of two-dimensional nanomaterials with bioelectronic interfaces. Sections focus on background information and fundamental concepts, review the available functionalized nanomaterials and their properties, explore the integration of functionalized nanomaterials with bioelectronics, including available fabrication and characterization methods, electrical behavior at the interface, and design and synthesis guidelines, and review examples of microsystems where functionalized nanomaterials are being integrated with bioelectronics. This book is suitable for researchers and practitioners in academia and R&D working in materials science and engineering, analytical chemistry and related fields.

Copper Nanostructures: Next-Generation of Agrochemicals for Sustainable Agroecosystems considers the impact of copper-based nanostructures on agri-food sectors. Sections highlight the green synthesis of copper nanoparticles, production mechanisms, eco-safety, and future perspectives, discuss the increasing importance of copper nanomaterials in plant protection applications, describe the use of copper nanostructures in plant science applications, cover antimicrobial applications, explore copper nanostructure applications, and summarize current applications in agroecosystems, such as copper nanoparticles as nanosensors, their negative ecological effects, estimation risks, and more.

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.

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.

Handbook of Odors in Plastic Materials, Third Edition analyzes the reasons behind unwanted odor formation and outlines methods for prevention. This new edition contains a thorough review of the most recent data, achievements and information in this less known but very significant field of polymer modification. The book covers the fundamentals of odor formation and its transport within a material, the relationship between odor and toxicity, and various methods of odor removal and unwanted odor formation. Three chapters are devoted to the analysis of odor-related matters in different polymers, products and methods of processing. Dozens of polymers and product groups are analyzed, and the book also discusses regulations related to odor in products, effects of odor on health and safety, the effect of odors from plastic materials on indoor air quality, information on testing of odor changes, as well as a selection of raw materials for fog-free products.

Databook of Plasticizers, Third Edition contains data on more than 300 of the most important generic and commercial plasticizers in use today. The data comes from a range of sources beyond plasticizers manufacturers, allowing for a detailed comparison of properties of different plasticizers. Over 100 different data fields are provided, from general information, such as molecular structure and formula, to physical properties, health and safety information, ecological properties, and recommendations regarding appropriate use and performance of each plasticizer. This data book is an essential resource for engineers, technicians and materials scientists responsible for specifying a plasticizer. The book has been updated to reflect the recent changes in plasticizer approvals for production of various materials, including chloroparaffins, refined oil derivatives, and phalates, and also includes data details on a range of new plasticizers that have recently gained market approval. It serves as an ideal companion to the Handbook of Plasticizers.

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery is a comprehensive guide to PLGA nanoparticles for targeting various diseases, covering principles, formation, characterization, applications, regulations and the latest advances. Sections introduce the fundamental aspects of PLGA nanoparticles for drug delivery, including properties, preparation methods, characterization, drug loading methods, and drug release mechanisms, along with a focus on applications. Application of PLGA nanoparticles for the treatment of cancer, inflammatory, cerebral, cardiovascular, and infectious diseases, as well as in regenerative medicine, photodynamic and photothermal therapy, and gene therapy, are all explained in detail. The final chapters explore recent advances and regulatory aspects. This book is a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students across nanomedicine, polymer science, bio-based materials, chemistry, biomedicine, biotechnology, and materials engineering, as well as for industrial scientists and R&D professionals with an interest in nanoparticles for drug delivery, pharmaceutical formulations and regulations, and development of innovative biodegradable materials.

Phase Change Materials for Heat Transfer focuses on how to maximize the heat transfer rate and thermal storage capability of PCMs. Various aspects are covered, including preparation of phase change materials to heat transfer enhancement and characteristics with an emphasis on prominent applications. The book is designed in such a manner to cover the broad definitions, introduction, brief history, preparation techniques, thermophysical properties and heat transfer characteristics with mathematical models, performance-affecting factors and the applications and challenges of PCMs. This handbook will prove invaluable to readers interested in a resource with the latest information in this emerging field.

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.

Multifunctional Phase Change Materials: Fundamentals, Properties and Applications updates on phase change materials (PCMs) used for the storage of thermal energy as sensible and latent heat. This class of materials is the subject of intensive research, both fundamental and applied, as they substantially contribute to the efficient use and conservation of waste heat and solar energy. Different groups of materials have been investigated as PCMs, including inorganic systems (salt and salt hydrates), organic, e.g., paraffins or fatty acids, polymers, and finally, hybrid materials. Recent developments are focused on multifunctional PCMs that provide functional features apart from energy storage, such as desired optical or antibacterial properties. This book presents various synthesis approaches for functionalized materials, as well as specific interactions and self-organization effects in polymer/functionalized (nano)particle systems. It reviews the current state-of-the-art in multifunctional phase change materials for thermal energy storage applications by describing the fundamentals of energy storage, the main classes of PCMs, functionalization protocols, encapsulation methods and shape stabilization procedures.

Functional Materials from Carbon, Inorganic and Organic Sources: Methods and Advances describes the basic principles, mechanisms and theoretical background of functional materials. Sections cover Carbon-based functional materials, Inorganic functional materials for renewable and sustainable energy applications, and Organic and biological based functional materials. Applications such as energy storage and conversion, electronic and photonics devices, and in medicine are also explored. Sections dive into photovoltaic devices, light emitting devices, energy storage materials and quantum dot devices, solar cell fundamentals and devices, perovskite materials and ceramic thin films. Final sections emphasize green approaches to synthesis in semiconductor nanoparticles, quinolone complexes, biomaterials and biopolymers.

Plant Polysaccharides as Pharmaceutical Excipients explores innovative techniques and applications of plant-derived polysaccharides as pharmaceutical excipients. Plant polysaccharides are sustainable, renewable and abundantly available, offering attractive properties in terms of water solubility, swelling ability, non-toxicity and biodegradability. These qualities have resulted in extensive exploration into their applications as excipients in a variety of pharmaceutical dosage forms. This book takes a comprehensive, application-oriented approach, drawing on the very latest research that includes sources, classification and extraction methods of plant polysaccharides. Subsequent chapters focus on plant polysaccharides for individual pharmaceutical applications, enabling the reader to understand their preparation for specific targeted uses. Throughout the book, information is supported by illustrations, chemical structures, flow charts and data tables, providing a clear understanding. Finally, future perspectives and challenges are reviewed and discussed.

Presents a key overview of the latest advances in the synthesis, engineering and fabrication of carbon quantum dots for sustainable technologies

Novel Platforms for Drug Delivery Applications covers diverse aspects in the design, synthesis and characterization of novel drug delivery platforms and devices. This book comprehensively details the development, application and performance of various novel molecular frameworks as potent drug delivery vehicles. Chapters cover a range of materials and molecular platforms for drug delivery, from hydrogels, nanocarriers and metal-organic-frameworks, to ?-cyclodextrin and polyphosphazene. Each chapter discusses the benefits and limitations of each drug delivery system, as well as toxicological and safety implications. This book offers an interdisciplinary approach to this fast-moving topic, bridging the disciplines of materials science and pharmacology.

Adapting the Built Environment for Climate Change: Design Principles for Climate Emergencies analyzes several scenarios and proposes various adaptation strategies for climate emergencies (heat waves, wildfires, floods, and storms). Divided into three themes, the book offers an organized vision of a complex and multi-factor challenge. It covers climatic resilience and building refurbishment, implications for service life prediction and maintainability, and climate adaptation in the maintenance and management of buildings. Sections cover infrastructure materials, climate emergency adaptation and building adaptation to heat waves, wildfires, floods and storms. The book will be an essential reference resource for civil and structural engineers, architects, planners, designers and other professionals who have an interest in the adaptation of the built environment against climate change.

Nanoparticle therapeutics: Production Technologies, Types of Nanoparticles, and Regulatory Aspects employs unique principles for applications in cell-based therapeutics, diagnostics and mechanistics for the study of organ physiology, disease etiology and drug screening of advanced nanoparticles and nanomaterials. The book focuses on the extrapolation of bioengineering tools in the domain of nanotechnology and nanoparticles therapeutics, fabrication, characterization and drug delivery aspects. It acquaints scientists and researchers on the experiential and experimental aspects of nanoparticles and nanotechnology to equip their rational application in various fields, especially in differential diagnoses and in the treatment of diverse diseased states. This complete resource provides a holistic understanding of the principle behind formation, characterization, applications, regulations and toxicity of nanoparticles employing myriad principles of nanotechnology. Investigators, pharmaceutical researchers, and advanced students working on technology advancement in the areas of designing targeted therapies, nanoscale imaging systems and diagnostic modalities in human diseases where nanoparticles can be used as a critical tool for technology advancement in drug delivery systems will find this book useful.

Metal Chalcogenide Biosensors: Fundamentals and Applications provides an overview of advances in materials development of chalcogenides for use in biosensing and sensing applications. The metal chalcogenides discussed include highly reactive metals, noble metals and transition metals. Particular attention is given to the morphology, porosity, structure and fabrication of materials for biosensing applications. The connection between the chalcogenides' physical and chemical properties and device performance is explored. Key parameters for biosensor devices are investigated such as thermodynamics, kinetics, selectivity, sensitivity, efficiency and durability to aid in materials selection. Finally, a range of biosensor devices are addressed including gas biosensors, chemical biosensors, environment biosensors and biological molecule sensors. This book is suitable for those in the fields of materials science and engineering, chemistry and physics.

Biomedical Applications of Green Composites reviews the use of green composite materials in drug delivery, with a focus on capsules, resins and ceramides in biomedical fields. Chapters present green composites of polymeric origin and targeted delivery of drugs into various parts of the human body. Other sections in the book cover topics related to the applications of green composites in areas such as antimicrobial agents, pathogen control, surgical applications, dentistry and cancer therapy.

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.

Applications of Unsaturated Polyester Resins: Synthesis, Modifications, and Preparation Methods takes a practical approach to unsaturated polyester-based materials and their preparation for implementation in a range of innovative areas. Sections introduce the background of polyester and the fundamentals of unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs), including chemistry, additives, curing, and processing methods. Hydrolytic stability and structure-property relationships are also discussed in detail, along with coverage of modification strategies for UPR and the development of bio-composites incorporating natural fiber with unsaturated polyester. Subsequent chapters focus on the preparation of UPR for specific target applications, including in construction, marine and aerospace, adhesives and coatings, insulation systems, electrics, pipeline corrosion, military, biomedicine, and tissue engineering. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of UPR compared to other resins, in terms of properties and performance, as well as life cycle assessment, are addressed and analyzed.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanomaterials illustrates how to biologically scale up silver nanoparticle synthesis. This book covers green synthesis of silver nanomaterials, via plants, agricultural waste, fungi, and microorganisms. Sections cover the synthesis and characterization of chemical and green synthesis, various types of silver nanomaterialism, the ability of different fungal species, such as filamentous fungi, to produce silver nanoparticles, the microbial synthesis of silver NMs, biosynthesis mechanisms, toxicity, fate and commercialization. As examples, greener pathways and mechanisms, toxicity of silver nanoparticles in aquatic life and in natural eco-systems, and strategies for the scaling up of green-synthesized nanomaterials are discussed. With the extended work in enhancing nanomaterials synthesis performance, and discovering their biomedical, environmental, and agricultural applications, it is hoped that the execution of these methods on a large scale and their industrial applications in different fields will take place in the near future.