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.

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

Microfluidic Devices for Biomedical Applications, Second Edition provides updated coverage on the fundamentals of microfluidics, while also exploring a wide range of medical applications. Chapters review materials and methods, microfluidic actuation mechanisms, recent research on droplet microfluidics, applications in drug discovery and controlled-delivery, including micro needles, consider applications of microfluidic devices in cellular analysis and manipulation, tissue engineering and their role in developing tissue scaffolds, and cover the applications of microfluidic devices in diagnostic sensing, including genetic analysis, low-cost bioassays, viral detection, and radio chemical synthesis. This book is an essential reference for medical device manufacturers, scientists and researchers concerned with microfluidics in the field of biomedical applications and life-science industries.

Thermal Degradation of Polymeric Materials, Second Edition offers a wealth of information for polymer researchers and processors who require a thorough understanding of the implications of thermal degradation on materials and product performance. Sections cover thermal degradation mechanisms and kinetics, as well as various techniques, such as thermogravimetry in combination with mass spectroscopy and infrared spectrometry to investigate thermal decomposition routes. Other chapters focus on polymers and copolymers, including polyolefins, styrene polymers, polyvinyl chloride, polyamides, polyurethanes, polyesters, polyacrylates, natural polymers, inorganic polymers, high temperature-resistant and conducting polymers, blends, organic-inorganic hybrid materials, nanocomposites, and biocomposites. Finally, other key considerations such as recycling of polymers by thermal degradation, thermal degradation during processing, and modelling, are discussed in detail.

Emerging Applications of Carbon Nanotubes in Drug and Gene Delivery brings together principles behind the formation, characterization and development of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with recent advances in drug and gene delivery applications. The book begins with an introduction to the unique properties of CNTs, as well as the various synthesis, purification and functionalization methods available. Later chapters cover drug and gene delivery using CNTs for therapeutic applications, comparing advantages and disadvantages of each. The book then goes on to discuss toxicity and safety challenges in using CNTs in biomedicine, with a forward-look at regulatory requirements and clinical translations. This book offers a detailed reference for materials scientists, biomedical engineers, pharmaceutical scientists and geneticists interested in CNTs and nanomedicine.

Cellulose Fibre Reinforced Composites: Interface Engineering, Processing and Performance provides an up-to-date review of current research in cellulose fiber reinforced polymer composites. Key emphasis is placed on interface engineering, modern technologies needed for processing and materials performance in industrial applications. Novel techniques for interfacial adhesion, characterization and assessment of cellulose fiber reinforced composites are also discussed, along with current trends and future directions. With contributions from leading researchers in industry, academic, government and private research institutions from across the globe, the book will be an essential reference resource for all those working in the field of cellulose fibers and their composites.

Smart Supercapacitors: Fundamentals, Structures and Applications presents current research and technology surrounding smart supercapacitors, also exploring their rapidly emerging characteristics and future potential advancements. The book begins by describing the basics and fundamentals related to supercapacitors and their applicability as smart and next generation energy storing devices. Subsequent sections discuss electrode materials, their fabrication, specific designing techniques, and a review of the application and commercialization of this technology. This book will appeal to researchers and engineers from both academia and industry, making it a vital resource to help them revolutionize modern supercapacitors.

Damping in Fiber Reinforced Composite Materials starts with an introduction to the basic concepts of damping in composite materials. Methods of modeling damping are then covered, along with recent developments in measuring techniques, both local, like polar scanning and global techniques like the Resonalyser method (based on measuring modal damping ratios of composite material plates). The effect of other factors, such as stress, strain-level, stiffness and frequency that need to be considered when determining damping behavior in composite materials are also discussed in detail. Other chapters present a parametric study of a two-phase composite material using different micromechanical models such as Unified micromechanics, and Hashin and Eshelby's to predict elastic moduli and loss factors. A bridging model that incorporates the effect of fiber packaging factors is then compared to FEM results. Final sections cover the effect of the interphase on the mechanical properties of the composite, present a nonlinear model for the prediction of damping in viscoelastic materials, and provide practical examples of damping and principles of vibration control.

Thermally Conductive Polymer Composites provides an important introduction to the key principles, methods, and research directions of this emerging thermal management material category. This book introduces thermal conduction, measurement methods, thermal conduction mechanisms, and related theories. It also reviews classification and processing techniques which impact thermal conductivity performance. Thermally conductive composites discussed include intrinsically thermally conductive polymers, thermally conductive fillers, and thermally conductive polymer composites. Furthermore, the interfacial thermal resistance is thoroughly explained including basic concepts, theoretical research, and characterization. Finally, the practical applications of thermally conductive polymer composites are illustrated such as thermally conductive plastics, thermally conductive rubbers, and thermally conductive adhesives.

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.

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.

Practical Micromechanics of Composite Materials provides an accessible treatment of micromechanical theories for the analysis and design of multi-phased composites. Written with both students and practitioners in mind and coupled with a fully functional MATLAB code to enable the solution of technologically relevant micromechanics problems, the book features an array of illustrative example problems and exercises highlighting key concepts and integrating the MATLAB code. The MATLAB scripts and functions empower readers to enhance and create new functionality tailored to their needs, and the book and code highly complement one another. The book presents classical lamination theory and then proceeds to describe how to obtain effective anisotropic properties of a unidirectional composite (ply) via micromechanics and multiscale analysis. Calculation of local fields via mechanical and thermal strain concentration tensors is presented in a unified way across several micromechanics theories. The importance of these local fields is demonstrated through the determination of consistent Margins of Safety (MoS) and failure envelopes for thermal and mechanical loading. Finally, micromechanics-based multiscale progressive damage is discussed and implemented in the accompanying MATLAB code.

The Electrocaloric Effect: Materials and Applications reviews the fundamentals of the electrocaloric effect, the most relevant electrocaloric materials, and electrocaloric measurements and device applications. The book introduces the electrocaloric effect, along with modeling and simulations of this effect. Then, it addresses the latest advances in synthesis, characterization and optimization of the most relevant electrocaloric materials, including ferroelectric materials, liquid materials, lead-free materials, polymers and composites. Finally, there is a review of the latest techniques in measurement and applications in refrigeration and cooling and a discussion of the advantages, challenges and perspectives of the future of electrocaloric refrigeration.

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.

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.

Fabrication and Functionalization of Advanced Tubular Nanofibers and their Applications describes the synthesis, preparation and characterization of carbon-based tubular nanofibers and their applications in environmental protection and new energy sources. The book explores novel strategies for the preparation of carbon tubular nanofibers and explains how they have been used to great effect in a range of applications, including energy and healthcare. The processing-structure-property relationship in functional inorganic/organic materials is examined at the nano-level, explaining where interesting electronic, magnetic, optical, mechanical or catalytic and therapeutic properties are derived. Covering everything from the basics to their use in practice, including the synthetic procedure and characterization, this book is the perfect guide for anyone interested in the design of nanomaterials for advanced applications. Nanomaterial science is a relatively young and rapidly developing discipline that includes aspects of physics, chemistry and biology and is finding applications in some of mankind's greatest current challenges.

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.

Nanomedicine: Technologies and Applications, Second Edition provides an important review of this exciting technology and its growing range of applications. In this new edition, all chapters are thoroughly updated and revised, with new content on antibacterial technologies and green nanomedicine. Sections introduce the material, cover their properties, review nanomedicine for therapeutics, imaging and soft tissue engineering, including organ regeneration, skin grafts, nanotubes and self-assembled nanomaterials. Other sections cover bone and cartilage tissue engineering, nanostructured particles for antibacterial purposes, advances in green nanomedicine, and using natural nanomedicine to fight disease. This book is an indispensable guide for all those involved in the research, development and application of this exciting technology, whilst also providing a comprehensive introduction for students and academics interested in this field.

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.

Graphene Based Biomolecular Electronic Devices outlines the fundamental concepts related to graphene and electronics, along with a description of various advanced and emerging applications of graphene-based bioelectronics. The book includes coverage of biosensors, energy storage devices such as biofuel cells, stretchable and flexible electronics, drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, and 3D printed graphene in bioelectronics. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, it explores the synergy produced due to charge transfer between biomolecules and graphene and will help the reader understand the promising bioelectronic applications of graphene-based devices. Graphene has applications in semiconductor electronics, replacing the use of traditional silicon-based devices due to its semi-metallic nature and tuneable energy band gap properties. The tuning of electron transfer with redox properties of biomolecules could potentially lead to the development of miniaturized bioelectronic devices. Thus, graphene, with its unique sensing characteristics, has emerged as an attractive material to produce biomolecular electronic devices.

Fundamentals of Sensor Technology: Principles and Novel Designs presents an important reference on the materials, platforms, characterization and fabrication methods used in the development of chemical sensor technologies. Sections provide the historical context of sensor technology development, review principles for the design of sensing devices and circuits, delve into the most common chemical and biological sensor types, cover unique properties and performance requirements, discuss fabrication techniques, including defining critical parameters, modeling and simulation strategies, and present important materials categories used in sensing applications, such as nanomaterials, quantum dots, magnetic materials, and more. This book is appropriate for the interdisciplinary community of researchers and practitioners interested in the development of sensor technologies, including materials scientists and engineers, analytical chemists and other related disciplines.

Modelling Approaches and Computational Methods for Particle-laden Turbulent Flows introduces the principal phenomena observed in applications where turbulence in particle-laden flow is encountered while also analyzing the main methods for analyzing numerically. The book takes a practical approach, providing advice on how to select and apply the correct model or tool by drawing on the latest research. Sections provide scales of particle-laden turbulence and the principal analytical frameworks and computational approaches used to simulate particles in turbulent flow. Each chapter opens with a section on fundamental concepts and theory before describing the applications of the modelling approach or numerical method. Featuring explanations of key concepts, definitions, and fundamental physics and equations, as well as recent research advances and detailed simulation methods, this book is the ideal starting point for students new to this subject, as well as an essential reference for experienced researchers.

Smart Multifunctional Nano-inks: Fundamentals and Emerging Applications covers nano-inks and how they can be used in inkjet printers for printing complex circuitry on flexible substrates or as a paste for 3D printers. Microstructures can be 3D-printed using nano-inks in a combination of high-resolution plasma printing and subsequent rotogravure printing. In addition, smart multifunctional nano-inks are not only required for the electronic, but also in other applications, such as for secure inks, for currency, and in immigration documents. This book focuses on fundamental design concepts, promising applications, and future challenges of nano-inks in various areas, such as optoelectronics, energy, security and biomedical fields. The current challenge for the successful industrial application of nano-inks is in the preparation of a stable dispersion of advanced materials for nano-inks. The functionalization, synthesizing, and theoretical modeling provide the solution for most of the current issues, but there are still remaining challenges which are covered in this comprehensive resource.

Phosphor Handbook: Process, Properties and Applications provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in research on the synthesis, characterization and applications of organic and inorganic phosphors. There is detailed information presented on the characterization of the relevant phosphor groups, such as up-conversion and down-conversion phosphors, inorganic LED phosphors, organic LED phosphors and thermoluminescence and dosimetric phosphors using various physical and chemical advances. Finally, the advances in phosphor technologies are discussed, including current barriers to their use in commercial applications and emerging opportunities. This book is suitable for researchers and practitioners in academia and those working in R&D in industry in the disciplines of materials science and engineering, materials chemistry, materials physics, photonics science and technology, nanotechnology and physical chemistry.

Thermal Barrier Coatings, Second Edition plays a critical role in counteracting the effects of corrosion and degradation of exposed materials in high-temperature environments such as gas turbine and aero-engines. This updated edition reviews recent advances in the processing and performance of thermal barrier coatings, as well as their failure mechanisms. Novel technologies for the manufacturing of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) such as plasma spray-physical vapor deposition and suspension plasma spray, are covered, as well as severe degradation of TBCs caused by CMAS attack. In addition to discussions of new materials and technologies, an outlook about next generation TBCs, including T/EBCs is discussed. This edition will provide the fundamental science and engineering of thermal barrier coatings for researchers in the field of TBCs, as well as students looking for a tutorial.