Laser Additive Manufacturing of Metallic Materials and Components discusses the current state and future development of laser additive manufacturing technologies, detailing material, structure, process and performance. The book explores the fundamental scientific theories and technical principles behind the elements of laser additive manufacturing, touching upon scientific and technological challenges faced by laser additive manufacturing technology. This book is suitable for those who want to further "understand" and "master" laser additive manufacturing technology and will expose readers to innovative industrial applications that meet significant demand from aeronautical and astronautical high-end modern industries for low-cost, short-cycle and net-shape manufacturing of structure-function integrated metallic components. With the increasing use of industrial applications, additive manufacturing processes are deepening, with technology continuing to evolve. As new scientific and technological challenges emerge, there is a need for an interdisciplinary and comprehensive discussion of material preparation and forming, structure design and optimization, laser process and its control, microstructure and performance characterization, and innovative industrial applications, hence this book covers these important aspects.

Nanotechnology Tools for Infections Control: Scanning New Horizons on Next-Generation Therapies to Eradicate Pathogens and Fight Drug Resistance provides an overview of recent strategies to build nanotechnology platforms, with a specific focus on biocompatible and biodegradable nanosystems. Particular attention is given to responsive nanoparticles, which are able to sense and respond to specific external stimuli (e.g., temperature, pH). The book includes details of the rationale behind the design of the raw materials, synthetic procedures and characterization techniques. It also introduces a new generation of nanomaterials, commonly named as ‘nanobots’, which are able to self-propel in response to external stimuli. Subsequent sections of the book focus on the applications of nanosystems as an alternative approach to standard antibiotics. The chapters describe their pharmokinetic and dynamics within the body, their ability to cross biological barriers and how they distribute within different body compartments. In this respect, a dedicated section highlights the crucial role of the immune system, as well as of protein corona, in changing the nanoparticles retention within the body. Coverage is also given to describe how nanosystems access different cells and their intracellular trafficking.

Renewable Energy Systems: Modelling, Optimization and Control aims to cross-pollinate recent advances in the study of renewable energy control systems by bringing together diverse scientific breakthroughs on the modeling, control and optimization of renewable energy systems by leading researchers. The book brings together the most comprehensive collection of modeling, control theorems and optimization techniques to help solve many scientific issues for researchers in renewable energy and control engineering. Many multidisciplinary applications are discussed, including new fundamentals, modeling, analysis, design, realization and experimental results. The book also covers new circuits and systems to help researchers solve many nonlinear problems. This book fills the gaps between different interdisciplinary applications, ranging from mathematical concepts, modeling, and analysis, up to the realization and experimental work.

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.

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.

Handbook of Polymer Processing Additives provides insights on the selection of additives, their performance mechanisms, essential application properties, and a complete analysis of related literature and patents. Acid scavengers, air release, anticaking, antigassing, anti-gelling, anti-settling, hydrolysis stabilizers, and moisture scavengers are each covered. Information on the use of additives in various products is divided into sections on types, concentrations, usage, advantages and disadvantages, effects on product properties, and examples of formulation. Processing methods are similarly divided into sections on types and concentrations, effects on the process, effect on product properties, advantages and disadvantages, and examples of formulation. All essential aspects of chemistry, physical properties, influence on properties of final products, formulations, methods of incorporation, analysis and effects on health and environment are considered. The book is an excellent companion to the Databook of Polymer Processing Additives.

Databook of Polymer Processing Additives provides key information on the properties of polymer processing additives, covering their general information, physical properties, health and safety considerations, ecological properties, and use and performance details. Acid scavengers, air release, anticaking, antigassing, anti-gelling, anti-settling, hydrolysis stabilizers, moisture scavengers, and more are all covered, providing readers with key data aiding in the proper selection of these additives. The book is an excellent companion to the Handbook of Polymer Processing Additives.

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.

Antimicrobial Nanosystems: Fabrication and Development provides an in-depth review of nanotechnological advancements in the fields of biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries to counteract bacterial infections and related health issues. Functionalized nanomaterials and their processes are covered, along with the theory and fabrication of antimicrobial nanosystems. The potential applications of antimicrobial nanosystems are also discussed along with their challenges and commercialization. This book discusses the most frequent problems caused by resistant microorganisms and difficult-to-treat bacteria and highlights the impact of recently developed antimicrobial nanosystems. Various methodsto obtain efficient nanomaterials with antimicrobial properties are described, along with their advantages, challenges, and main applications. The design of targeting antimicrobial therapeutics, able to specifically detect pathogenic microorganisms and to act in a very specific manner, is thoroughly investigated.

Light, Plasmonics and Particles focuses on the fundamental science and engineering applications of light scattering by particles, aerosols and hydrosols, and of localized plasmonics. The book is intended to be a self-contained and coherent resource volume for graduate students and professionals in the disciplines of materials science, engineering and related disciplines of physics and chemistry. In addition to chapters related to fundamental concepts, it includes detailed discussion of different numerical models, experimental systems and applications. In order to develop new devices, processes and applications, we need to advance our understanding of light-matter interactions. For this purpose, we need to have a firm grasp of electromagnetic wave phenomena, and absorption and scattering of waves by different size and shape geometrical objects. In addition, understanding of tunneling of waves based on electron and lattice vibrations and coupling with the thermal fluctuations to enhance near-field energy transfer mechanisms are required for the development of future energy harvesting devices and sensors.

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

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.

Nanotechnology in Human Health: Current Research and Future Trends details the various challenges faced in human healthcare settings and how nanotechnology can be used to target and improve outcomes. The book describes the application of nanoparticles in the diagnosis of human diseases, including metabolic diseases, cancer, bacterial infection, organ degeneration and the various targeted, nano-based treatments available. Several chapters look at how microbial biofilms - a key clinical concern - can be mitigated using nanomaterials and nanotechnology. In addition, the book covers how different nanoparticle types can be utilized as therapeutic agents. This book combines materials science concepts and techniques with clinical insights and understanding to provide an interdisciplinary reference for materials scientists, microbiologists, biomedical engineers and clinicians with an interest in nanotechnology.

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.

Welding of Metallic Materials: Methods, Metallurgy and Performance looks at technical welding methods used based on different principles and sources, such as heat, with or without pressure, electrical, plasma, laser and cold-based welding. The metallurgical aspects associated with the welding processes, specifically those associated with metallic alloys, are explained, alongside the advantages and welding features that are associated with specific welding processes. In addition, the performance of metallic weldments under specific conditions and environments such as offshore, oil industry, radiation and high-temperature services are discussed. This book will a vital resource for researchers, practicing engineers and undergraduate and graduate students in the field of materials science and engineering.

Lanthanide Doped Aluminate Phosphors: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications overviews advances in research on aluminate-based long persistent phosphors and their applications in lighting, display, radiation dosimetry and imaging. The book reviews the most important categories of rare earth aluminate-based phosphors, including aluminosilicates and aluminoborates. This category of material is attractive for a wide range of applications because of their high quantum efficiency, long afterglow life, chemical stability and optical properties, which is discussed throughout. Optical properties, in particular, are emphasized in the book along with the relationship of the chemical composition and doping of these materials and their optical performance. This book is suitable for researchers and practitioners working in academia and research and development in industry in the disciplines of materials science and engineering, chemistry and physics.