Polymer science has matured into a fully accepted branch of materials science. This means that it can be described as a 'chain of knowledge' (Manfred Gordon), the beads of the chain representing all the topics that have to be studied in depth if the relationship between the structure of the molecules synthesized and the end-use properties of the material they constitute is to be understood. The term chain indicates the connectivity of the beads, i.e. the multidisciplinary approach required to achieve the aim, knowledge, here defined as quantitative understanding of the relationship mentioned above in all its parts. Quite a few conferences are being held at which the disciplinar beads themselves are discussed in detail, and new results within their framework are presented. In this respect, the TUPAC Microsymposia in Prague have made themselves indispensable, to mention one successful example. The bi annual TUPAC Symposia on Macromolecules, on the other hand, supply interdisciplinary meeting places, which have the advantage and the disadvantage of a large attendance. Smaller-size conferences of a similar nature can often be found on a national level. The organizers of the young, but already well-appreciated, Rolduc Meetings on the interplay between fundamental science and technology in the polymer field struck an interesting chord' when they realized that focussing on the basic science behind technological problems would serve the purpose of concentration on insight along the chain of knowledge and avoid the surrender to too large a size for the meeting to really be a meeting."

Because of the sheer size of the plastics industry, the title Developments in Plastics Technology now covers an incredibly wide range of subjects or topics. No single volume can survey the whole field in any depth and so what follows is therefore a series of chapters on selected topics. The topics were selected by us, the editors, because of their immediate relevance to the plastics industry. When one considers the materials produced and used by the modern plastics industry, there is a tendency to think of the commodity thermoplastics (such as poly(vinyl chloride) or polyethylene); the thermosetting materials are largely ignored. Because of this attitude we are very pleased to include in this volume a chapter which deals with the processing of a thermosetting material, i.e. the pultrusion of glass reinforced polyester. The extrusion of plastics is, of course, a very important subject but an aspect which is often overlooked is the need to remove volatile matter during processing: for this reason we have included a chapter on devolatilisation. Current industrial practice is towards materials modification and this attitude is reflected in the chapters on the transformation of ethylene vinyl acetate polymers and the use of wollastonite in two important thermoplastics. When assessing the performance of materials, there is a tendency to concentrate on short-term mechanical tests and ignore such topics as fatigue and longer-term testing. We are therefore very pleased to include a chapter on this subject.

Because of the sheer size and scope of the plastics industry, the title Developments in Plastics Technology now covers an incredibly wide range of subjects or topics. No single volume can survey the whole field in any depth and what follows is, therefore, a series of chapters on selected topics. The topics were selected by us, the editors, because of their immediate relevance to the plastics industry. When one considers the advancements of the plastics processing machinery (in terms of its speed of operation and conciseness of control), it was felt that several chapters should be included which related to the types of control systems used and the correct usage of hydraulics. The importance of using cellular, rubber-modified and engineering-type plastics has had a major impact on the plastics industry and therefore a chapter on each of these subjects has been included. The two remaining chapters are on the characterisation and behaviour of polymer structures, both subjects again being of current academic or industrial interest. Each of the contributions was written by a specialist in that field and to them all, we, the editors, extend our heartfelt thanks, as writing a contribution for a book such as this, while doing a full-time job, is no easy task.

From the late-1960's, perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSAs) ionomers have dominated the PEM fuel cell industry as the membrane material of choice. The "gold standard' amongst the many variations that exist today has been, and to a great extent still is, DuPont's Nafion (R) family of materials. However, there is significant concern in the industry that these materials will not meet the cost, performance, and durability requirementsnecessary to drive commercialization in key market segments - es- cially automotive. Indeed, Honda has already put fuel cell vehicles in the hands of real end users that have home-grown fuel cell stack technology incorporating hydrocarbon-based ionomers. "Polymer Membranes in Fuel Cells" takes an in-depth look at the new chem- tries and membrane technologies that have been developed over the years to address the concerns associated with the materials currently in use. Unlike the PFSAs, which were originally developed for the chlor-alkali industry, the more recent hydrocarbon and composite materials have been developed to meet the specific requirements of PEM Fuel Cells. Having said this, most of the work has been based on derivatives of known polymers, such as poly(ether-ether ketones), to ensure that the critical requirement of low cost is met. More aggressive operational requi- ments have also spurred the development on new materials; for example, the need for operation at higher temperature under low relative humidity has spawned the creation of a plethora of new polymers with potential application in PEM Fuel Cells.

This book provides readers with a comprehensive toolbox for dispersing single-walled and multiwalled carbon nanotubes in thermoplastic polymer matrices. The book starts with an overview of all known techniques for dispersing CNTs in thermoplastic polymers and then concentrates on one of the most versatile techniques known nowadays: the so-called latex technology. Also discussed are the basic principles of this latex technology, the role of the matrix viscosity on percolation threshold, the importance of the intrinsic CNT quality, the use of "smart" surfactants facilitating electron transport in the final composite, the preparation of highly loaded master-batches, which can be diluted with virgin polymer by melt-extrusion, and some promising potential applications.

Radical polymerization is one of the most widely used means of producing vinyl polymers, supporting a myriad of commercial uses. Maintaining the quality of the critically acclaimed first edition, the Handbook of Vinyl Polymers: Radical Polymerization, Process, and Technology, Second Edition provides a fully updated, single-volume source on the chemistry, technology, and applications of vinyl polymers. Emphasizes radical initiating systems and mechanisms of action... Written by renowned researchers in the field, this handbook is primarily concerned with the physical and organic chemistry of radical vinyl polymerization. The authors survey the most recent advances, processing methods, technologies, and applications of free radical vinyl polymerization. The book features thorough coverage of polymer functionalization, photo initiation, block and graft copolymers, and polymer composites. Analyzes living/controlled radical polymerization, one of the latest developments in the field... Combining fundamental aspects with the latest advances, processing methods, and applications in free radical vinyl polymerization and polymer technology, this invaluable reference provides a unified, in-depth, and innovative perspective of radical vinyl polymerization.

The improvement of strength and durability in polymers has implications relevant to industrial, medical, and household applications. Enhanced by the improved knowledge of the interactions between complex hierarchical structures and functional requirements, Mechanical Properties of Polymers Based on Nanostructure and Morphology focuses on new polymer materials that possess a combination of improved mechanical and other physical properties. This book specifies techniques used in structural and morphological characterization, discusses crazing and molecular variables of fracture behavior, and clarifies various modes of deformation mechanisms and orientation processes for semicrystalline polymers, block copolymers, and composites. The volume examines microindentation hardness studies and mechanisms of toughness enhancement for particle modified, amorphous and semicrystalline polymers and blends using model analysis. Experts in the field present innovations that illustrate new aspects of manufacturing, structure development, and properties of practical relevance in nanoparticle-filled thermoplastic polymers and the applications of carbon nanotube and nanofiber reinforced polymer systems. Other topics discussed in the book include alternative methods of polymer modification based on micro- and nanolayered polymers and hot compaction of oriented fibers and tapes. This book reflects the continuing research of mechanisms contributing to the structure-function relationship of nanostructured polymers and nanocomposites. Mechanical Properties of Polymers Based on Nanostructure and Morphology presents effective ways to combine improved mechanical and physical properties in polymers and form new, performance-enhanced composite materials.

The novel properties of multifunctional polymer nanocomposites make them useful for a broad range of applications in fields as diverse as space exploration, bioengineering, car manufacturing, and organic solar cell development, just to name a few. Presenting an overview of polymer nanocomposites, how they compare with traditional composites, and their increasing commercial importance, Multifunctional Polymer Nanocomposites conveys the significance and various uses of this new technology for a wide audience with different needs and levels of understanding. Exploring definitions, architectures, applications, and fundamental principles of various functions of multifunctional polymeric smart materials-from bulk to nano-this book covers the use of multifunctional polymer nanocomposites in: Carbon nanotubes Electroactive and shape memory polymers Magnetic polymers Biomedical and bioinformation applications Fire-resistance treatments Coating technologies for aeronautical applications Ocean engineering A practical analysis of functional polymers, nanoscience, and technology, this book integrates coverage of fundamentals, research and development, and the resulting diversity of uses for multifunctional polymers and their nanocomposites. Quite possibly the first reference of its kind to explore the progress of polymer nanocomposites in terms of their multifunctionality, it covers both theory and experimental results regarding the relationships between the effective properties of polymer composites and those of polymer matrices and reinforcements. This book is a powerful informational resource that illustrates the importance of polymer nanomaterials, examining their applications in various sectors to promote new, novel research and development in those areas. It will be a welcome addition to the libraries of not only engineering researchers, but senior and graduate students in relevant fields.

Admired for their extraordinary stimuli-sensitive behavior and shape-changing capabilities, shape-memory polymers (SMPs) and multifunctional composites are among the most important smart materials. They continue to be widely applied in many diverse fields to create things such as self-deployable spacecraft structures, morphing structures, SMP foams, smart textiles, and intelligent medical devices. Written by renowned authors, Shape-Memory Polymers and Multifunctional Composites is a broad overview of the systematic progress associated with this emerging class of materials. The book presents an overview of SMPs and a detailed discussion of their structural, thermo-mechanical, and electrical properties, and their applications in fields including aeronautics, astronautics, biomedicine, and the automotive industry. Covering topics ranging from synthesis procedures to ultimate applications, this is a sound instructional text that serves as a guide to smart materials and offers an in-depth exploration of multifunctional SMPs and SMP composites, outlining their important role in the materials field. In each chapter, industry experts discuss different key aspects of novel smart materials, from their properties and fabrication to the actuation approaches used to trigger shape recovery. This comprehensive analysis explores the different functions of SMPs, the fundamentals behind them, and the ways in which polymers may reshape product design in general.

Recent advances not only in the creation of new polymers but also in their processing and production have ushered in huge strides in a variety of biomedical and clinical areas. Orthopedics and dentistry are two such areas that benefit immensely from developments in polymer science and technology. Polymers for Dental and Orthopedic Applications examines the most current topics in this expanding field with an emphasis on technological evolution and clinical impacts. Surveying major progress in polymer science and technology for dental, maxillofacial, and orthopedic applications, this book provides a unique illustration of the conceptual development of novel biomaterials and processes designed to meet targeted clinical needs. Two preeminent scientists lead a close-knit team of international experts with extensive experience in product development, bioengineering, education, and clinical applications. Ranging from polymeric materials for dental and maxillofacial application to joint repair and replacement, polymeric composites, and tissue engineering, the book also examines topics that are common to both dental and orthopedic fields, such as osseointegration and infection management. Explore the current status and future possibilities of polymeric biomaterials in Polymers for Dental and Orthopedic Applications. A unique blend of technical information and practical insight, this reference fosters the continued growth of a critically important field.

Biopolymers are attracting immense attention of late because of their diverse applications that can address growing environmental concerns and energy demands. The development of various biomaterials creates significant advancements in the medical field as well, and many biopolymers are used for the fabrication of biomaterials. Together, biopolymers and biomaterials create great potential for new materials, applications, and uses. This new volume, Biopolymers and Biomaterials, covers the science and application of biopolymers and biomaterials. It presents an array of different studies on biopolymers and biomaterials, along with their results, interpretation, and the conclusions arrived at through investigations. It includes biopolymer synthesis, their characterizations, and their potential applications. The book begins with an explanation of the different biopolymers used in the textile industry, their advantages and disadvantages, and their applications.

The most comprehensive volume to date on the design and manufacture of plastics

Plastic product design relies on the same formulas and procedures used for the design of metal, yet plastics are unique building materials that require more in-depth knowledge to produce acceptable results. Plastic product designers must address specific quality control concerns in order to produce quality products at acceptable costs. Covering the many variables that impact the success of a plastics manufacturing program, Industrial Design of Plastics Products provides a complete resource for the efficient design and production of plastics.

Industrial Design of Plastics Products lists all steps necessary for effectively designing a plastic product for any industry. Physical properties and agency codes are listed, as well as full checklists for all areas of product design, contract, material selection, assembly techniques, manufacture, tooling, decoration, and shipping. The text also offers a list of examples with corresponding case studies to illustrate key concepts. Other features of this comprehensive volume include:

• An easy-to-understand list of requirements for establishing a manufacturing program
• A discussion of how material properties should be analyzed to achieve a product with the correct properties
• A full set of design equations, including examples of how they should be used and considered when designing a plastic product

Successful plastic product design involves using the design team method to determine which material, mold, and process is best to manufacture a product. Industrial Design of Plastics Products provides a more detailed treatment in the basics of the subject than any other available resource, proving invaluable to design, chemical, and electrical engineers; materials scientists; and plastics manufacturers.

Reflecting the exceptional growth in the use of nanostructured materials for an increasing range of industrial applications, Polymer Nanocomposites Handbook comprehensively covers the synthesis of nanomaterials that act as the building blocks of polymer nanocomposites and polymers that act as matrix materials.
From early history to new technologies, the book guides readers through the development of nanocomposites and their broad and rapidly developing applications from flame retardant properties to advances in polymer compounding. Using examples from today's leading academic and industrial research labs, top scientists provide in-depth discussions of the science, processing, and technology that have accompanied nanocomposites? ascension into the world of chemical and materials science.
With nineteen chapters authored by world leaders in nanocomposite research, this handbook provides diverse and authoritative coverage on the scientific underpinnings and revolutionary discoveries related to this promising field.

This authoritative, widely cited book has been used all over the world. The fourth edition incorporates the latest developments in the field while maintaining the core objectives of previous editions: to correlate properties with chemical structure and to describe methods that permit the estimation and prediction of numerical properties from chemical structure, i.e. nearly all properties of the solid, liquid, and dissolved states of polymers.
* extends coverage of critical topics such as electrical and magnetic properties, rheological properties of polymer melts, and environmental behavior and failure
* discusses liquid crystalline polymers across chapters 6, 15, and 16 for greater breadth and depth of coverage
* increases the number of supporting illustrations from approximately 250 (in the previous edition) to more than 400 to further aid in visual understanding

Derived from the fourth edition of the well-known "Plastics Technology Handbook," Plastics Fabrication and Recycling presents the molding and fabrication processes of plastics as well as several important features of plastics recycling.

The book begins with a discussion of different types of molds and dies, including compression molding, injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, reaction injection molding, extrusion, and pultrusion. It then covers spinning, casting, reinforcing, foaming, compounding, and coating processes as well as powder molding, adhesive bonding, and plastics welding techniques. The authors also explore the decoration of plastics, including painting operations, printing processes, hot stamping, in-mold decorating, embossing, electroplating, and vacuum metallizing. They conclude with an overview on key aspects of plastics recycling, developments in the field, and waste recycling problems.

This book discusses the concept of single polymer composites (SPCs), their preparation, and properties and the main factors which affect the manufacturing of this class of composites. It deals with the leading classes of polymers, chapter wise, which have been majorly explored for manufacturing SPCs - polyolefins, polyesters, polyamides, and LCPs - includes a case study on manufacturing of SPCs, and devotes three chapters to detailed analyses of research on all-cellulose composites. Addressing the concerns of the researchers, it also answers intriguing questions in the field of SPCs with pointers to the right references. Key Features Presents a summary of single polymer composites based on various polymers Includes mechanical and thermal properties of single polymer composites Reviews detailed view of eco-friendly approaches to composites Offers a special focus on all-cellulose composites Supports concepts with figures, schemes, and tables

This is a revised and updated edition of the highly popular Polymer Surfaces first published in 1994. The authors have revised and updated the content and added recent references. Polymer Surfaces - From Physics to Technology is divided into four main sections.

• The origins and physical principles governing the properties of polymer surfaces
• Characterization techniques - spectroscopic, surface energetic and contact angle
• The modification of polymer surface properties
• Applications - wettability, adhesion, biocompatibility

The last six years have seen a great shift in plastics recycling from the mechanical recycling of the early nineties towards a more integrated approach in which feedstock recycling and the recovery of incineration energy is encouraged. Based on extensive research of the international recycling industry, this book describes technological advances in polymer recycling from the sorting stage through to recycling processes and end-use applications; provides an overview of state-of-the-art recycling techniques with current and potential applications and draws together and consolidates literature in this rapidly growing field. Due to widespread growing concern over the contribution of plastics to environmental pollution, a book which does all of the above is long overdue. In the US and Europe the recycling of polymers is a major political issue and has become an expanding commercial activity. Dr. Scheirs places significant emphasis on the recycling of automobile tyres, polyurethane foams, carpets, engineering plastics and fibre-reinforced composites, all of which had been previously thought to be hard to recycle.

This, the first Wiley publication of a Polymer Network Group Review, presents articles resulting from the 13th Polymer Network Group conference that took place in the Netherlands in September 1996. The scope of the conference was "Chemical versus Physical Networks: Formation and Control of Properties." The resulting contributions provided new insight into recent trends in liquid crystalline and anisotropic networks, nanostructures and new developments in network theory and modeling. The papers published in this volume have been divided into 7 sections: Thermoreversible and Biopolymer Gels Formation of Covalent Networks Liquid Crystalline Networks Characterisation of Networks Critical Gels Heterogeneous Gels Swelling of Networks

The book describes the development and commercialization of materials with viscoelastic properties, placing particular emphasis on the scientific and technological differences between plastics and bioplastics. The authors explain how to handle each of the two types of materials and determine the comparative environmental impact of the material life-cycle. The practical values of the overlapping aspects of the two types of materials from technical properties to eco-compatibility are also discussed.

This work covers the chemistry and physics of polymeric materials and their uses in the fields of electronics, photonics, and biomedical engineering. It discusses the relationship between polymeric supermolecular structures and ferroelectric, piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties.

The manner in which polymers are linked, under certain conditions, forms the main focus of this work. Spectroscopy has, over the years, proved itself to be the technique in providing information at molecular levels for many polymer systems. This book provides an overview of the current state-of-the-art through contributions by world-renowned experts. Techniques covered include: ?1H and ?13C NMR; NMR Imaging, Solid State NMR, Infra Red and Raman spectroscopy, ESR, light and neutron scattering. The book will be invaluable to post graduate students of polymer science and researchers using any one of the many spectroscopic techniques.

Low shear polymer powder processing provides unique solutions to many processing problems and offers a set of production techniques, frequently un-paralleled by other production methods. In recent years there has been increased interest in this field but no comprehensive review of the subject has been available until now. In this book, a team of experts have taken the novel approach of treating several processing techniques, such as compacted powder sintering, rotational moulding, powder coating, ram extrusion, and compression moulding, as diverse implementations of a single technology. The first chapters deal with the scientific and engineering fundamentals shared by various polymer powder processing techniques, and are followed by a detailed examination of each technique and some special effects. Polymer Powder Technology will prove invaluable to technologists, plastics and materials engineers, researchers and students working with various aspects of particulate polymer processing.

Cyclic Polymers (Second Edition) reviews the many recent advances in this rapidly expanding subject since the publication of the first edition in 1986. The preparation, characterisation, properties and applications of a wide range of organic and inorganic cyclic oligomers and polymers are described in detail, together with many examples of catenanes and rotaxanes. The importance of large cyclics in biological chemistry and molecular biology is emphasised by a wide coverage of circular DNA, cyclic peptides and cyclic oligosaccharides and polysaccharides. Experimental techniques and theoretical aspects of cyclic polymers are included, as well as examples of their uses such as ring opening polymerisation reactions to give commercially important materials. This book covers a wide range of topics which should be of interest to many scientific research workers (for example, in polymer science, chemistry and molecular biology), as well as providing a reference text for undergraduate and graduate students.