Fundamentals and Recent Advances in Nanocomposites Based on Polymers and Nanocellulose brings together the latest research in cellulose-based nanocomposites, covering fundamentals, processing, properties, performance, applications, and the state of the art. The book begins by explaining the fundamentals of cellulose and cellulose-based nanocomposites, including sources, extraction, types, classification, linkages, model structure, model compounds, and characterization techniques. The second part of the book covers the incorporation of cellulose fillers to improve the properties or characteristics of nanocomposites, organized by composite category, including in aerogels, thermoplastic composites, thermoset composites, bioplastic composites, carbon nanofibers, rubber composites, carbon fibers, and foaming materials. Throughout these chapters, there is an emphasis on the latest innovations and application potential. Finally, applications are explored in more detail, notably focusing on the utilization of nanocellulose in biodegradable composites for biomedical applications, along with other important industrial application areas. This book is of great interest to researchers, scientists, and advanced students working with bio-based materials, and across polymer science, nanomaterials, composite materials, plastics engineering, chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, as well as R&D professionals, engineers, and industrialists interested in the development of bio-based materials for advanced applications or material commercialization.

Graphene to Polymer/Graphene Nanocomposites: Emerging Research and Opportunities brings together the latest advances and cutting-edge methods in polymer/graphene nanocomposites that offer attractive properties and features, leading to a broad range of valuable applications. The initial chapters of this book explain preparation, properties, modification, and applications of graphene and graphene-based multifunctional polymeric nanocomposites. Later, the state-of-the-art potential of polymer/graphene nanocomposites for hierarchical nanofoams, graphene quantum dots, graphene nanoplatelets, graphene nanoribbons, etc., has been elucidated. The subsequent chapters focus on specific innovations and applications including stimuli-responsive graphene-based materials, anticorrosive coatings, applications in electronics and energy devices, gas separation and filtration membrane applications, aerospace applications, and biomedical applications. Throughout the book, challenges, and future opportunities in the field of polymer/graphene nanocomposites are discussed and analyzed. This is an important resource for researchers, scientists, and students/academics working with graphene and across the fields of polymer composites, nanomaterials, polymer science, chemistry, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, materials science, and engineering, as well those in an industrial setting who are interested in graphene or innovative materials.

Chemistry, Manufacture and Applications of Natural Rubber, Second Edition presents the latest advances in the processing, properties and advanced applications of natural rubber (NR), drawing on state-of-the-art research in the field. Chapters cover manufacturing, processing and properties of natural rubber, describing biosynthesis, vulcanization for improved performance, strain-induced crystallization, self-reinforcement, rheology and mechanochemistry for processing, computer simulation of properties, scattering techniques and stabilizing agents. Applications covered include natural rubber, carbon allotropes, eco-friendly soft bio-composites using NR matrices and marine products, the use of NR for high functionality such as shape memory, NR for the tire industry, and natural rubber latex with advanced applications. This is an essential resource for academic researchers, scientists and (post)graduate students in rubber science, polymer science, materials science and engineering, and chemistry. In industry, this book enables professionals, R&D, and producers across the natural rubber, tire, rubber and elastomer industries, as well as across industries looking to use natural rubber products, to understand and utilize natural rubber for cutting-edge applications.

Natural Polyphenols from Wood: Tannin and Lignin - An Industrial Perspective is a detailed guide to the sourcing and processing of tannin and lignin for valuable advanced applications across areas such as fuels, chemicals, drugs, and food. Drawing on the latest academic research and patent literature, this book provides strong practical understanding of the use of these valuable materials in novel industrial applications. This book introduces natural polyphenols from wood and the fundamental aspects of carbon management within the tree. In-depth presentation of extraction and characterization methods is followed by an extensive coverage of practical and industrial applications of wood polyphenols. This is an essential resource for researchers and advanced students working with lignin or tannin, and across biopolymer science, biomass, wood chemistry, paper, wood adhesives, polymer materials, renewable resources, and biotechnology. It also supports industrial R&D and scientists working with wood polyphenols or bio-based polymers.

Food, Medical, and Environmental Applications of Polysaccharides provides a detailed resource for those interested in the design and preparation of polysaccharides for state-of-the-art applications. The book begins with an introductory section covering sources, chemistry, architectures, bioactivity, and chemical modifications of polysaccharides. Subsequent parts of the book are organized by field, with chapters focusing on specific applications across food, medicine, and the environment. This is an extremely valuable book for researchers, scientists, and advanced students in biopolymers, polymer science, polymer chemistry, biomaterials, materials science, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, cosmetics, medicine, food science, and environmental science. This important class of biopolymer can offer attractive properties and modification potential, enabling its use in groundbreaking areas across food, medical, and environmental fields. The book will be of interest to scientists, R&D professionals, designers, and engineers who utilize polysaccharide-based materials.

Micro and Nanolignin in Aqueous Dispersions and Polymers: Interactions, Properties, and Applications presents the very latest research on lignin biorefinery treatments, production, chemistry, and refining, exploring a range of innovative applications of lignin and lignin-based composites at both the micro and the nanoscale. The book begins by presenting the latest developments in extraction methods and properties, with topics including methods for value-added microlignin, color characteristics, refining and functionalization, depolymerization for phenolic monomer production, and production of sulphur-free lignin nanoparticles. This is followed by in-depth sections focusing on the preparation of lignin for advanced applications at the microscale, then at the nanoscale, covering a range of areas such as construction, fiber manufacturing, food packaging, biomedicine, wood preservation, wastewater treatment, and agriculture. This valuable resource enables the reader to identify the high added value of a biomass residue and supports possible development and use for mass and niche high impact application sectors. This information is of interest to researchers, scientists, and advanced students, across bio-based polymers and bio-composites, polymer science and engineering, nanomaterials, chemistry, sustainable materials, materials science, and chemical engineering. Moreover, it is also addressed to the professionals that as well as those in an R&D industrial setting to are looking on ideas and perspectives on how to utilize bio-based materials in advanced industrial applications.

Macromolecular Engineering: Design, Synthesis and Application of Polymers explores the role of macromolecular engineering in the development of polymer systems with engineered structures that offer the desired combination of properties for advanced applications. This book is organized into sections covering theory and principles, science and technology, architectures and technologies, and applications, with an emphasis on the latest advances in techniques, materials, properties, and end uses - and including recently commercialized, or soon to be commercialized, designed polymer systems. The chapters are contributed by a group of leading figures who are actively researching in the field. This is an invaluable resource for researchers and scientists interested in polymer synthesis and design, across the fields of polymer chemistry, polymer science, plastics engineering, and materials science and engineering. In industry, this book supports engineers, R&D, and scientists working on polymer design for application areas such as biomedical and healthcare, automotive and aerospace, construction and consumer goods.

Biopolymers and Their Industrial Applications: From Plant, Animal, and Marine Sources to Functional Products is a detailed guide to the use of biopolymers for advanced applications across a range of key industries. In terms of processing and cost, bio-based polymers are becoming increasingly viable for an ever-broadening range of novel industrial applications. The book begins with an overview of biopolymers, explaining resources, demands, sustainability, life cycle assessment (LCA) modeling and simulation, and classifications. Further in-depth chapters explore the latest techniques and methodologies for isolation and physicochemical characterization, materials selection, and processing for blends and composites. Chapters 6 to 14 each focus on the preparation and applications of biopolymers in a specific industrial area, including food science and nutraceuticals, medicine and pharmaceuticals, textiles, cosmeceutical, packaging, adhesives and automotive, 3D printing, super capacitor and energy storage devices, and environmental applications. The final chapter compares and analyzes biopolymers alongside synthetic polymers, also offering valuable insight into social, economic, and environmental aspects. This is an essential resource for those seeking to understand, research, or utilize biopolymers in industrial applications. This includes researchers, scientists, and advanced students working in biopolymers, polymer science, polymer chemistry, biomaterials, materials science, nanotechnology, composites, and biotechnology. This is a highly valuable book for scientists, R&D professionals, designers, and engineers across multiple industries and disciplines, who are looking to utilize biopolymers for components and products.

Advanced Joining Processes: Welding, Plastic Deformation, and Adhesion brings together a range of advanced thermal, mechanical, and chemical methods of joining, offering an up-to-date resource for those looking to understand and utilize the very latest techniques. Efficient joining techniques are critical to a range of innovative applications, with technology in constant development. The first section of the book provides in-depth information on advanced welding techniques, including friction stir, explosive, ultrasonic, laser, electron beam, and computational weld analysis and fatigue of structures. The second section highlights key developments in joining by plastic deformation, adhesive bonding, and hybrid joining. The coverage of each technique is supported by practical guidance, detailed analysis, and finite element simulations. This is an essential reference for researchers and advanced students in joining, welding, adhesion, materials processing, mechanical engineering, plastics engineering, manufacturing, civil engineering, and automotive/aerospace engineering, as well as engineers, scientists, and R&D professionals, using joining, welding, and adhesion methods, across a range of industries.

Polymers used in electronics and electrical engineering are essential to the development of high-tech products, with applications in space, aviation, health, automotive, communication, robotics, consumer products, and beyond. Typical features of mainstream polymers such as mechanical performance, optical behavior, and environmental stability frequently need to be enhanced to perform in these demanding applications, creating the need to develop special grades or use completely new chemistry for their synthesis. Similarly, the typical set of properties included in the description of mainstream polymers are not sufficient for polymer selection for these applications, as they require different data, data that is meticulously detailed in the Handbook of Polymers for Electronics. The book provides readers with the most up-to-date information from the existing literature, manufacturing data, and patent filings. Presenting data for all polymers based on a consistent pattern of arrangement, the book provides details organized into the following sections: General; history; synthesis; structure; commercial polymers; physical properties; electrical properties; mechanical properties; chemical resistance; flammability; weather stability; thermal stability; biodegradation; toxicity; environmental impact; processing; blends; analysis. The contents, scope, treatment and novelty of the data makes this book an essential resource for anyone working with polymeric materials used in modern electronic applications.

Biopolymer Science for Proteins and Peptides introduces all aspects of natural polymers based on structural proteins and peptides, presenting synthesis, structure, properties, proteins, materials design, and applications. The book begins by presenting the core concepts of polypeptide and protein materials, before discussing synthesis and structure in detail. The next part of the book describes physical properties, biological properties, and issues surrounding stability. Subsequent chapters offer in-depth coverage of both natural and structural protein sources, including collagen, silk, elastin, resilin, keratin, foot protein, and reflectin, and the materials that can be designed from them, such as films, fibers, textiles, microparticles, sponges and scaffolds, nanomaterials, blends, and composites. These materials are also analyzed against the available synthetic polymers. Finally, the text explores current applications and potential future developments. This is an essential resource for researchers and advanced students across a range of disciplines, including biopolymers, structural proteins, polymer science, materials science, biomaterials, biology, biotechnology, chemistry, engineering, and pharmaceutical science. In an industry setting, this is of great interest to scientists and R&D professionals working in industries with an interest in bio-based polymers for advanced applications.

Polymer Hybrid Materials and Composites: Fundamentals and Applications presents an introduction to the principles behind polymeric hybrid materials, providing both theoretical and practical information on the synthesis and application of these materials. It documents the latest innovations, ranging from materials development and characterization of properties, to applications. Sections cover the route from laboratory to industry, providing practical, actionable guidance to assist the scaling up process for applications in areas including energy technology, solar cells, water purification, medical devices, optical and electrical devices, and more. It is an essential introduction to the emerging technologies that are made possible by these advanced materials.

Analytical Pyrolysis of Natural Organic Polymers, Second Edition, Volume 20 describes the methodology of analytical pyrolysis, the results of pyrolysis for a variety of biopolymers, and several practical applications of analytical pyrolysis on natural organic polymers and their composite materials. The book describes the results of pyrolysis for biopolymers and some chemically modified natural organic polymers. In addition, the many applications of analytical pyrolysis are covered in detail, including topics such as polymer detection used in forensic science, structure elucidation of specific polymers, and identification of small molecules present in polymers (anti-oxidants, plasticizers, etc.).

Generation of Polymers and Nanomaterials at Liquid-Liquid Interfaces: Application to Crystalline, Light Emitting, and Energy Materials, Second Edition is an innovative guide to the synthesis and processing of materials through liquid-liquid interfaces. This second edition has been revised and expanded, with a new chapter on light emitting materials and increased emphasis towards applications. The book aims to highlight the versatility of the interface between two liquids, providing a unique environment for synthesizing materials with highly tuned, desirable properties. In this revised and expanded second edition, the advanced applications of the synthesized materials and the two-phase systems are highlighted, with real potential within flexible electronics, energy storage, enhanced oil recovery, and sensors. This is supported by detailed coverage of interfacial processes and the fundamental physical chemistry behind them. The first two chapters provide an overview of interfaces in natural and biological systems, and outline the fundamental properties of the interface. Chapters 3 and 4 are devoted to the synthesis and self-organization of nanoparticles and polymers through interfacial systems. The synthesis of conductive, fluorescent and conventional polymers and their properties are extensively covered. Chapters 5 and 6 focus on novel applications. This book is of interest to researchers, scientists, and advanced students, in polymer synthesis, polymer chemistry, polymer science, nanomaterials and nanotechnology, polymer composites, materials science, energy, flexible electronics, and chemical engineering. In industry, this supports scientists, R&D, and other professionals, working with polymeric materials for applications in energy, electronics, sensors, and oil & gas.

The Effect of Long Term Thermal Exposure on Plastics and Elastomers, Second Edition brings together a wide range of essential data on the effect of long-term thermal exposure on plastics and elastomers, enabling engineers to make optimal material choices and design decisions. This second edition has been thoroughly revised to include the latest data and materials. This highly valuable handbook will support engineers, product designers, R&D professionals, and scientists who are working on plastics products or parts for high temperature environments across a range of industries. This readily available data will make it easy for practitioners to learn about plastic materials and their long- term thermal exposure without having to search the general literature or depend on suppliers. This book will also be of interest to researchers and advanced students in plastics engineering, polymer processing, coatings, and materials science and engineering.

Handbook of Fillers, Fifth Edition discusses the rapidly advancing field of fillers, the substances added to plastics and composites that add value by improving and modifying the properties of materials and reducing costs. This new edition is an essential reference for engineers and scientists using fillers in a range of materials, including plastics, rubber, adhesives, and paper. Designed to be a comprehensive reference for both experienced practitioners and those new to the field, it covers available fillers and their properties, their effect on filled materials, their rheology and flammability, recycling considerations, and their use in practical applications. The book offers a direct comparison of general-purpose fillers (micron-size fillers) and nanofillers. The first section covers the grades of fillers available in the world market, dividing them into eight groups and analyzing their properties, applications, and sources. The second section discusses the effects of filler incorporation with ten chapters covering the mechanical properties of compounded materials, the effect of the filler on the material rheology, the morphology of the filled system, the material durability, flammability and recycling, the structure of interphase, chemical interphase, chemical interactions, interaction with and effect on other additive, fillers use in material compounds, and the analytical methods of testing fillers and filled materials. The final section is devoted to the application of fillers on an industrial scale. Filler transportation, storage, processing, and equipment used for these purposes are discussed, as are quality control of fillers, formulation with fillers, different processing methods, and health and safety issues.

Polymer-Based Advanced Functional Composites for Optoelectronic and Energy Applications explains how polymer-based smart composites and nanocomposites can be prepared and utilized for novel optical, sensor and energy-related applications. The book begins with an introductory section on the fundamentals of smart polymer composites, including structure-property relationships and conjugated polymers. Other sections examine optical applications, including the use of polymer-based smart composites for luminescent solar concentrators, electro-chromic applications, light conversion applications, ultraviolet shielding applications, LED encapsulation applications, sensor applications, including gas-sensing, strain sensing, robotics and tactile sensors, with final sections covering energy-related applications, including energy harvesting, conversion, storage, vibrational energy harvesting, and more. This is an essential guide for researchers, scientists and advanced students in smart polymers and materials, polymer science, composites, nanocomposites, electronics and materials science. It is also a valuable book for scientists, R&D professionals and engineers working with products that could utilize smart polymer composites.

Engineered Polymeric Fibrous Materials explains cutting edge techniques for the engineering of fibrous materials from physical, mechanical, and chemical points of view. Both conventional and nanofibers are described in this uniquely comprehensive book, for a wide range of applications including biomedical, automotive, aerospace, agriculture, energy, and environmental. This book refers to recent advances made in both academia and industry, in topics such as fiber-reinforced composites, fibrous thermal insulators, drug delivery and tissue engineering, and smart textiles and energy, and explains how fibrous structures are engineered to offer new solutions to important problems. The first two chapters provide basic introductory information to allow a wider range of readers to engage with the book.

Lightweight and Sustainable Composites Materials: Preparation, Properties and Applications focuses on the synthesis, processing and characterization of these materials, their environmental sustainability features, compatibility with composites and their broad range of commercial and industrial application fields. The combination of being both lightweight and sustainable results in unique properties that make them suitable for a broad range of advanced commercial engineering applications. The book will be a valuable reference resource for academic and industrial researchers and material scientists and engineers working in the development of lightweight and sustainable composite materials. As recent studies on these materials reveal that they process excellent mechanical, electrical and thermal properties as well as improving environmental sustainability, this book is a welcomed resource.

Polymer-Based Separators for Lithium-Ion Batteries: Production, Processing, and Properties takes a detailed, systematic approach to the development of polymer separators for lithium-ion batteries, supporting the reader in selecting materials and processes for high-performance polymer separators with enhanced properties. The book begins by introducing the polymeric materials that may be used for separators, as well as characterization techniques, before presenting the available technologies used to produce separators for use in lithium-ion batteries. Each technology is discussed in terms of the advantages and disadvantages of the chosen approach, with the properties of the separators made via each technology also summarized and compared in detail. In addition, areas for further development are addressed, and the limitations of current materials and separators in achieving those goals are highlighted. This is a valuable resource for scientists and engineers in the industry who work on polymer-based battery separators, polymers for electronic/energy applications, and new materials and processes for lithium-ion batteries. In academia, this book will be of interest to researchers and advanced students across the fields of polymer science, materials science, electronics, energy, and chemical engineering.

Databook of Antiblocking, Release, and Slip Additives, Second Edition contains detailed information on over 300 important additives for polymers, including additives that are used to minimize adhesion, aid separation, and enhance processing and end-applications for polymers. Each additive is presented with data in the following categories: General Information, Physical Properties, Health and Safety, Ecological Properties, and Use and Performance. Data fields covered include state, odor, color, autoignition temperature, probability of biodegradation, and much more. Recommendations are given for specific products, processing methods, and mold materials, and an assessment is given for each additive's features and benefits.

Polymer Blend Nanocomposites for Energy Storage Applications presents the latest developments in polymer blend-based nanocomposites for applications in energy storage, covering theoretical concepts, preparation methods, characterization techniques, properties and performance. The book begins by introducing polymer blend-based nanocomposites, preparation methods, mechanisms, requirements, theory, modeling, and simulation, with subsequent sections covering the use of specific base materials, including elastomers, thermoplastics, thermoset polymers, and biodegradable polymers. Final sections covers polymer blend nanocomposites with different fillers, both for conducting polymers and non-conducting polymers. Devices discussed include capacitors, supercapacitors, batteries, fuel cells, and solar cells. Finally, other key aspects are considered, including the conversion from laboratory to industry and recycling and lifecycle assessment of polymer blend nanocomposites used in energy devices.

A Practical Guide to Plastics Sustainability: Concept, Solutions, and Implementation is a groundbreaking reference work offering a broad, detailed and highly practical vision of the complex concept of sustainability in plastics. The book's aim is to present a range of potential pathways towards more sustainable plastics parts and products, enabling the reader to further integrate the idea of sustainability into their design process. It begins by introducing the context and concept of sustainability, discussing perceptions, drivers of change, key factors, and environmental issues, before presenting a detailed outline of the current situation with types of plastics, processing, and opportunities for improved sustainability. Subsequent chapters focus on the different possibilities for improved sustainability, offering a step-by-step technical approach to areas including design, properties, renewable plastics, and recycling and re-use. Each of these pillars are supported by data, examples, analysis and best practice guidance. Finally, the latest developments and future possibilities are considered.

Handbook of Natural Polymers, Volume One: Sources, Synthesis, and Characterization is a comprehensive resource covering extraction and processing methods for polymers from natural sources, with an emphasis on the latest advances. Sections cover the current state-of-the-art, challenges and opportunities in natural polymers. Following sections cover extraction, synthesis and characterization methods organized by polymer type. Along with broad chapters discussing approaches to starch-based and polysaccharide-based polymers, dedicated chapters offer in-depth information on nanocellulose, chitin and chitosan, gluten, alginate, natural rubber, gelatin, pectin, lignin, keratin, gutta percha, shellac, silk, wood, casein, albumin, collagen, hemicellulose, polyhydroxyalkanoates, zein, soya protein, and gum. Final chapters explore other key themes, including filler interactions and properties in natural polymer-based composites, biocompatibility and cytotoxicity, and biodegradability, life cycle, and recycling. Throughout the book, information is supported by data, and guidance is offered regarding potential scale-up and industry factors.

Nanostructured Immiscible Polymer Blends: Migration and Interface covers a wide range of nanoparticle types, emphasizing the mechanisms and parameters involved in the migration of nanofillers inside immiscible polymer blends. This book explores the influence of nanoparticle migration on the localization, and hence, morphology development, electrical conductivity, and met-rheological properties of blended composite materials. As the influence of solid particles, ranging in size from several hundred nanometers to a few microns in immiscible polymer blends has been extensively studied for use as compatibilizers, morphology stabilizers, and reinforcement agents, this book is a timely resource.