Composite Reinforcements for Optimum Performance, Second Edition, has been brought fully up to date with the latest developments in the field. It reviews the materials, properties and modelling techniques used in composite production and highlights their uses in optimizing performance. Part I covers materials for reinforcements in composites, including chapters on fibers, carbon nanotubes and ceramics as reinforcement materials. In Part II, different types of structures for reinforcements are discussed, with chapters covering woven and braided reinforcements, three-dimensional fibre structures and two methods of modelling the geometry of textile reinforcements: WiseTex and TexGen. Part III focuses on the properties of composite reinforcements, with chapters on topics such as in-plane shear properties, transverse compression, bending and permeability properties. Finally, Part IV covers the characterization and modelling of reinforcements in composites, with chapters focusing on microscopic and mesoscopic approaches, X-ray tomography analysis and modelling reinforcement forming processes. With its distinguished editor and international team of contributors, Composite Reinforcements for Optimum Performance, Second Edition, is an essential reference for designers and engineers working in the composite and composite reinforcement manufacturing industry, as well as all those with an academic research interest in the subject.

Electrospun Polymers and Composites: Ultrafine Materials, High Performance Fibres and Wearables reviews the latest technological developments and innovations in electrospun polymers and composites, highlighting the multifunctionality of these ultrafine materials as high performance fibers. The book's chapters investigate a wide range of different electrospinning applications, including drug delivery, tissue scaffolding, fiber reinforcement and nanofiltration, with a particular focus on shape memory effect and the wearable characteristics of electrospun polymers and composites. This will be a valuable reference resource for research and for industrial communities working in the field of electrospinning.

Discrete Networked Dynamic Systems: Analysis and Performance provides a high-level treatment of a general class of linear discrete-time dynamic systems interconnected over an information network, exchanging relative state measurements or output measurements. It presents a systematic analysis of the material and provides an account to the math development in a unified way. The topics in this book are structured along four dimensions: Agent, Environment, Interaction, and Organization, while keeping global (system-centered) and local (agent-centered) viewpoints. The focus is on the wide-sense consensus problem in discrete networked dynamic systems. The authors rely heavily on algebraic graph theory and topology to derive their results. It is known that graphs play an important role in the analysis of interactions between multiagent/distributed systems. Graph-theoretic analysis provides insight into how topological interactions play a role in achieving coordination among agents. Numerous types of graphs exist in the literature, depending on the edge set of G. A simple graph has no self-loop or edges. Complete graphs are simple graphs with an edge connecting any pair of vertices. The vertex set in a bipartite graph can be partitioned into disjoint non-empty vertex sets, whereby there is an edge connecting every vertex in one set to every vertex in the other set. Random graphs have fixed vertex sets, but the edge set exhibits stochastic behavior modeled by probability functions. Much of the studies in coordination control are based on deterministic/fixed graphs, switching graphs, and random graphs.

Discover the role of nanotechnology in promoting plant growth and protection through the management of microbial pathogens In Nanotechnology in Plant Growth Promotion and Protection, distinguished researcher and author Dr. Avinash P. Ingle delivers a rigorous and insightful collection of some of the latest developments in nanotechnology particularly related to plant growth promotion and protection. The book focuses broadly on the role played by nanotechnology in growth promotion of plants and their protection through the management of different microbial pathogens. You'll learn about a wide variety of topics, including the role of nanomaterials in sustainable agriculture, how nano-fertilizers behave as soil feed, and the dual role of nanoparticles in plant growth promotion and phytopathogen management. You'll also discover why nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize the current agricultural landscape through the development of nano-based products, like plant growth promoters, nano-fertilizers, nano-pesticides, and nano-insecticides. Find out why nano-based products promise to be a cost-effective, economically viable, and eco-friendly approach to tackling some of the most intractable problems in agriculture today. You'll also benefit from the inclusion of: A thorough introduction to the prospects and impacts of using nanotechnology to promote the growth of plants and control plant diseases An exploration of the effects of titanium dioxide nanomaterials on plant growth and the emerging applications of zinc-based nanoparticles in plant growth promotion Practical discussions of nano-fertilizer in enhancing the production potentials of crops and the potential applications of nanotechnology in plant nutrition and protection for sustainable agriculture A concise treatment of nanotechnology in seed science and soil feed Toxicological concerns of nanomaterials used in agriculture Perfect for undergraduate, graduate, and research students of nanotechnology, agriculture, plant science, plant physiology, and crops, Nanotechnology in Plant Growth Promotion and Protection will also earn a place in the libraries of professors and researchers in these areas, as well as regulators and policymakers.

Advances in Imaging and Electron Physics, Volume 215, merges two long-running serials, Advances in Electronics and Electron Physics and Advances in Optical and Electron Microscopy. The series features extended articles on the physics of electron devices (especially semiconductor devices), particle optics at high and low energies, microlithography, image science, digital image processing, electromagnetic wave propagation, electron microscopy and the computing methods used in all these domains.

The Boundary Element Method for Engineers and Scientists: Theory and Applications is a detailed introduction to the principles and use of boundary element method (BEM), enabling this versatile and powerful computational tool to be employed for engineering analysis and design. In this book, Dr. Katsikadelis presents the underlying principles and explains how the BEM equations are formed and numerically solved using only the mathematics and mechanics to which readers will have been exposed during undergraduate studies. All concepts are illustrated with worked examples and problems, helping to put theory into practice and to familiarize the reader with BEM programming through the use of code and programs listed in the book and also available in electronic form on the book's companion website.

Vibration Fatigue by Spectral Methods relates the structural dynamics theory to the high-cycle vibration fatigue. The book begins with structural dynamics theory and relates the uniaxial and multiaxial vibration fatigue to the underlying structural dynamics and signal processing theory. Organized in two parts, part I gives the theoretical background and part II the selected experimental research. The time- and frequency- domain aspects of signal processing in general, related to structural dynamics and counting methods are covered in detail. It also covers all the underlying theory in structural dynamics, signal processing, uniaxial & multiaxial fatigue; including non-Gaussianity and non-stationarity. Finally, it provides the latest research on multiaxial vibration fatigue and the non-stationarity and non-Gaussianity effects. This book is for engineers, graduate students, researchers and industry professionals working in the field of structural durability under random loading and vibrations and also those dealing with fatigue of materials and constructions.

The main objective of this book is to offer an overview and a critical assessment of current connectivity issues in Asia and Europe, seen from an industrial perspective. Critical insights into the contemporary debate on connectivity during times of crisis, which has led to significant economic and social disruptions, are offered throughout the book. European and Asian countries seek to "bounce forward" and not "bounce back" as they navigate the complex economic recovery process. Innovation and investment emerge as critical players to help an economic recovery that shifts towards a more resilient and environmentally friendly approach, to ensure that the world economies stay connected. The global health crisis has revealed that, more than ever before, ubiquitous connectivity, underpinned by pioneering innovation, is a must. As such, governments worldwide need to ensure that businesses and societies emerge stronger and more resilient from existing and emerging crises by laying solid foundations that help to circumnavigate future disruptions of a global magnitude.

Thermoelectric Materials and Devices summarizes the latest research achievements over the past 20 years of thermoelectric material and devices, most notably including new theory and strategies of thermoelectric materials design and the new technology of device integration. The book's author has provided a bridge between the knowledge of basic physical/chemical principles and the fabrication technology of thermoelectric materials and devices, providing readers with research and development strategies for high performance thermoelectric materials and devices. It will be a vital resource for graduate students, researchers and technologists working in the field of energy conversion and the development of thermoelectric devices.

Tribology of Natural Fiber Polymer Composites, Second Edition, covers the availability and processing of natural fiber polymer composites and their structural, thermal, mechanical and tribological properties and performance. Environmental concerns are driving demand for biodegradable materials such as plant-based, natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites. These composites are fast replacing conventional materials in many industrial applications, especially in automobiles, where tribology (friction, lubrication and wear) is an important aspect.

Design and Optimization of Innovative Food Processing Techniques Assisted by Ultrasound: Developing Healthier and Sustainable Food Products is a useful tool in understanding the innovative applications derived from the use of ultrasound technology. The book is a starting point for product development, covering technological, physicochemical and nutritional perspectives, as well as the reduction of food toxics and contaminants. Divided into three parts, sections cover ultrasound usage in obtaining functional foods, extracting bioactive compounds, the improvement of food quality, ultrasound use for the development of novel applications, and more. As the definitive resource in new innovative ultrasound-based emerging processes, this book is a necessity for food scientists and technologists, nutrition researchers, and those working in the food manufacturing industry.

The Effect of Radiation on Properties of Polymers examines the effects of radiation on plastics and elastomers. Polymers are required in products or parts for a range of cutting-edge applications that are exposed to radiation, in areas such as space, medicine, and radiation processing. This book focuses on the effects of radiation exposure within that environment, providing in-depth data coverage organized by category of polymer. Aspects such as radiation impact on mechanical and thermal properties, including glass transition and heat deflection temperatures, are described, demonstrating how changes in these properties affect the performance of plastic or elastomer parts. The effect of radiation on electrical properties is also included. Supporting introductory chapters explain the key concepts of radiation, including the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of plastics and elastomers. This is a vital resource for plastics engineers, product designers, and R&D professionals, working on products or parts for radioactive environments, as well as engineers and scientists in the medical, nuclear, and radiation processing industries. The book also supports researchers and scientists in plastics engineering, polymer processing and properties, polymer and coatings chemistry, materials science, and radiation.

High Temperature Oxidation and Corrosion of Metals, Second Edition, provides a high level understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of high temperature alloy oxidation. It uses this understanding to develop methods of predicting oxidation rates and the way they change with temperature, gas chemistry, and alloy composition. The book focuses on the design and selection of alloy compositions which provide optimal resistance to attack by corrosive gases, providing a rigorous treatment of the thermodynamics and kinetics underlying high temperature alloy corrosion. In addition, it emphasizes quantitative calculations for predicting reaction rates and the effects of temperature, oxidant activities, and alloy compositions. Users will find this book to be an indispensable source of information for researchers and students who are dealing with high temperature corrosion.

Ultra-High Temperature Thermal Energy Storage, Transfer and Conversion presents a comprehensive analysis of thermal energy storage systems operating at beyond 800 DegreesC. Editor Dr. Alejandro Datas and his team of expert contributors from a variety of regions summarize the main technological options and the most relevant materials and characterization considerations to enable the reader to make the most effective and efficient decisions. This book helps the reader to solve the very specific challenges associated with working within an ultra-high temperature energy storage setting. It condenses and summarizes the latest knowledge, covering fundamentals, device design, materials selection and applications, as well as thermodynamic cycles and solid-state devices for ultra-high temperature energy conversion. This book provides a comprehensive and multidisciplinary guide to engineers and researchers in a variety of fields including energy conversion, storage, cogeneration, thermodynamics, numerical methods, CSP, and materials engineering. It firstly provides a review of fundamental concepts before exploring numerical methods for fluid-dynamics and phase change materials, before presenting more complex elements such as heat transfer fluids, thermal insulation, thermodynamic cycles, and a variety of energy conversation methods including thermophotovoltaic, thermionic, and combined heat and power.

Rock Fracture and Blasting: Theory and Applications provides the latest on stress waves, shock waves, and rock fracture, all necessary components that must be critically analyzed to maximize results in rock blasting. The positioning of charges and their capacity and sequencing are covered in this book, and must be carefully modeled to minimize impact in the surrounding environment. Through an explanation of these topics, author Professor Zhang's experience in the field, and his theoretical knowledge, users will find a thorough guide that is not only up-to-date, but complete with a unique perspective on the field.

Rising consumer demand for low power consumption electronics has generated a need for scalable and reliable memory devices with low power consumption. At present, scaling memory devices and lowering their power consumption is becoming more difficult due to unresolved challenges, such as short channel effect, Drain Induced Barrier Lowering (DIBL), and sub-surface punch-through effect, all of which cause high leakage currents. As a result, the introduction of different memory architectures or materials is crucial. Nanomaterials-based Charge Trapping Memory Devices provides a detailed explanation of memory device operation and an in-depth analysis of the requirements of future scalable and low powered memory devices in terms of new materials properties. The book presents techniques to fabricate nanomaterials with the desired properties. Finally, the book highlights the effect of incorporating such nanomaterials in memory devices. This book is an important reference for materials scientists and engineers, who are looking to develop low-powered solutions to meet the growing demand for consumer electronic products and devices.

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) device applications are common in many areas. Micromirror arrays are used as video projectors; microsensors find their application for measuring acceleration, temperature, and pressure; and they can also be used in the medical field for measuring blood pressure. Microfluidics have also been widely employed in life sciences applications, such as drug development and administration, point-of-care devices, and more. To use these technologies to their fullest extent, further research is needed. Advances in MEMS and Microfluidic Systems explores the emerging research and advances in MEMS devices and microfluidic systems applications. It features in-depth chapters on microfluidic device design and fabrication as well as on the aspects of devices/systems, characterization, and comparative research findings. Covering topics such as biosensors, lab-on-a-chip, and microfluidic technology, this premier reference source is an indispensable resource for engineers, health professionals, students and educators of higher education, librarians, researchers, and academicians.

Steel Corrosion Induced Concrete Cracking presents the latest advances in the origin, mechanism and development of corrosion-induced cracking in concrete. It investigates topics including expansion coefficient and elastic modulus of steel corrosion, rust layer and rust distribution, spatial distribution of corrosion products, the shape of corrosion-induced cracks and so on. This book concludes by proposing an improved corrosion-induced cracking model, which considers the phenomena of the simultaneous occurrence of corrosion layer accumulation and corrosion filling in concrete. This book will be a valuable reference book for researchers and graduate students in the field of concrete durability and concrete structure, and industry engineers who are concerned with the deterioration mechanisms and the life cycle of reinforced concrete structures.

Nanoscience, nanotechnologies and the laws of quantum physics are sources of disruptive innovation that open up new fields of application. Quantum engineering enables the development of very sensitive materials, sensor measurement systems and computers. Quantum computing, which is based on two-level systems, makes it possible to manufacture computers with high computational power. This book provides essential knowledge and culminates with an industrial application of quantum engineering and nanotechnologies. It presents optical systems for measuring at the nanoscale, as well as quantum physics models that describe how a two-state system interacts with its environment. The concept of spin and its derivation from the Dirac equation is also explored, while theoretical foundations and example applications aid in understanding how a quantum gate works. Application of the reliability-based design optimization (RBDO) method of mechanical structures is implemented, in order to ensure reliability of estimates from the measurement of mechanical properties of carbon nanotube structures. This book provides valuable support for teachers and researchers but is also intended for engineering students, working engineers and Master s students.

Advanced Processing, Properties, and Applications of Starch and Other Bio-based Polymers presents the latest cutting-edge research into the processing and applications of bio-based polymers, for novel industrial applications across areas including biomedical and electronics. The book is divided into three sections, covering processing and manufacture, properties, and applications. Throughout the book, key aspects of sustainability are considered, including improved utilization of available natural resources, sustainable design possibilities, cleaner production processes, and waste management.