n modern polymer science a variety of polymerization methods for the direct synthesis of polymers bearing functional groups are known. However, there is still a large number of functional groups that may either completely prevent polymerization or lead to side reactions. Post-polymerization modification, also known as polymer-analogous modification, is an alternative approach to overcome these limitations. It is based on the polymerization of monomers with functional groups that are inert towards the polymerization conditions but allow a quantitative conversion in a subsequent reaction step yielding a broad range of other functional groups. Thus, diverse libraries of functional polymers with identical average degrees of polymerization but variable side chain functionality may easily be generated.
Filling the gap for a book dealing with synthetic strategies and recent developments, this volume provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of post-polymerization modification.
As such, the international team of expert authors covers a wide range of topics, including new synthetic techniques utilizing different reactive groups for post-polymerization modifications with examples ranging from modification of biomimetic and biological polymers to modification of surfaces.
With its guidelines this is an indispensable and interdisciplinary reference for scientists working in both academic and industrial polymer research.

In this book, the authors discuss the production, properties and applications of degradable polymers. Topics discussed in this compilation include the increasing production and utilization of synthetic polymer materials and the global environmental problem caused by their accumulation in natural systems; biodegradable plastics as an alternative to chemical polymers; polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) polymers of hydroxyalkanoic acids synthesised by bacteria; the biochemical pathways of synthesis of various PHAs; substrates for PHA synthesis; PHA production and the physicochemical properties of PHA; biodegradation of polyhydroxyalkanoates in natural environments; potential areas for PHA application; PHA as a platform for drug delivery; PHA matrices for cell and tissue engineering; and the biomedical potential of PHA.

This long awaited and thoroughly updated version of the classic text (Plenum Press, 1970) explains the subject of electrochemistry in clear, straightforward language for undergraduates and mature scientists who want to understand solutions. Like its predecessor, the new text presents the electrochemistry of solutions at the molecular level. The Second Edition takes full advantage of the advances in microscopy, computing power, and industrial applications in the quarter century since the publication of the First Edition. Such new techniques include scanning-tunneling microscopy, which enables us to see atoms on electrodes; and new computers capable of molecular dynamics calculations that are used in arriving at experimental values. Chapter 10 starts with a detailed description of what happens when light strikes semi-conductor electrodes and splits water, thus providing in hydrogen a clean fuel. There have of course been revolutionary advances here since the First Edition was written. The book also discusses electrochemical methods that may provide the most economical path to many new syntheses - for example, the synthesis of the textile, nylon. The broad area of the breakdown of material in moist air, and its electrochemistry is taken up in the substantial Chapter 12. Another exciting topic covered is the evolution of energy conversion and storage which lie at the cutting edge of clean automobile development. Chapter 14 presents from a fresh perspective a discussion of electrochemical mechanisms in Biology, and Chapter 15 shows how new electrochemical approaches may potentially alleviate many environmental problems.

The development of new materials of natural origin and biodegradable characteristics for many applications is one of the most important challenges for the materials research groups and polymer industry during the next few years. Poly(lactic acid), PLA, is a biodegradable polymer synthesised from lactic acid (LA), which on its side is obtained from renewable resources. The editors have carried out a selection and seemingly have chosen enough of good reviews and unique works in the branch of lactic acid and its properties, polymerisation and final applications of PLA. Apparently, these works are at the front edge of science and will be of interest for high readership of scientists and students in the branch of chemistry and physics of polymers and biopolymers. The editors expect that the readers will be happy with this selection.

In today's world, bioplastics are becoming increasingly prominent owing mainly to scarcity of oil, increase in the cost of petroleum-based commodities, and growing environmental concerns with the dumping of non-biodegradable plastics in landfills. This book summarizes the field of bioplastics by illustrating how they form a unique class of research area that integrates pure and applied sciences such as chemistry, engineering and materials science, to initate solutions. Compelling science demystics this complex and often ambiguous branch of study for benefit of all those concerned with bioplastics.

The range of materials used for biomedical applications is very broad. This means that the demands on their properties are very diverse depending on various medical areas and applications. Moreover, it is often necessary to have available materials with the possibility to set the required parameters very precisely in very wide ranges. Because of the similar mechanical behaviour of hydrogels with that of living tissues and their good compatibility and ability of hydrogels to swell in water, the hydrogels are often used in biomedical applications. This book discusses and presents the use of hydrogel polymers in biology and medicine.

This is the second volume in this series which is devoted to the memory of World Renowned Scientist professor Rusanov Alexander L'vovich. The authors have highlighted in this volume the information about synthesis and properties of some heterochain polymers; polymer chain containing alternating phthalide groups and hydrocarbon structures without geteroatoms; proton-conducting membranes on the basis of sulfonated polyphenylquinoxalines; anionic ring-opening polymerisation of e-caprolactam in the presence of an ionic liquid; synthesis of polythienophenes and the modification of materials surfaces by functional oligoorganosiloxanes.

Most developed Si-N containing oligomers and polymers are silazaneorganic oligomers and polymers - one of the applicable siliconorganic poly-functional compounds with inorganic-organic main chains. They are using for production of various important technical compositions and materials with specific properties: polymer varnishes and coatings, water-repellents, polymer ceramics and silicon-nitride fibers, etc. They also successfully used in nanotechnology and as modifiers of the other organic and elementorganic oligomers, polymers and materials on their basis. In this book are described practically important and technologically justified four methods for obtaining polyfunctional siliconorganic polymers with organic - inorganic main chains.

Rubber elasticity is an important sub-field of polymer science. This book is in many ways a sequel to the authors' previous, more introductory book, Rubberlike Elasticity: A Molecular Primer (Wiley-Interscience, 1988), and will in some respects replace the now classic book by L.R.G. Treloar, The Physics of Rubber Elasticity (Oxford, 1975). The present book has much in common with its predecessor, in particular its strong emphasis on molecular concepts and theories. Similarly, only equilibrium properties are covered in any detail. Though this book treats much of the same subject matter, it is a more comprehensive, more up-to-date, and somewhat more sophisticated treatment.

In recent years, advanced composite materials have been frequently selected for aerospace applications due to their light weight and high strength. Polymer matrix composite (PMC) materials have also been increasingly considered for use in elevated temperature applications, such as supersonic vehicle airframes and propulsion system components. A new generation of high glass-transition temperature polymers has enabled this development to materialise. Clearly, there is a requirement to better understand the mechanical behaviour of this class of composite materials in order to achieve widespread acceptance in practical applications. This book presents and discusses the results and apparent shortcomings in studies of levels of fatigue in polymer matrix composites.

This book examines polymer nanocomposites filled by inorganic nanofillers. Polymers are considered as nanocomposite matrix only, possessing, as a rule, an invariable structure. In many respects this situation is explained by the absence of a quantitative structural model of polymers amorphous state. This problem becomes particularly important because all structural elements of polymers have sizes of nanometer scale. The development of notions about polymers amorphous state structure within the frameworks of the cluster model of this structure allows to represent amorphous polymer as a quasitwophase system.

In general, the strength of ceramic materials is influenced by the presence of flaws, originating during the material processing and representing fracture origins to be accordingly a reason of material fracture. In this book, fabrication processes of particle reinforced ceramic are introduced, which provide a useful set of variables for model experimental and theoretical studies. Toughening mechanisms of particle dispersion reinforced ceramic matrix composites are also discussed, and the practice of the composites containing the latest research results are introduced. In addition, the authors discuss the application of the contact and four-point bending tests on monolithic ceramic materials at room temperature to determine the strength of ceramic materials. Other chapters in this book examine fibre reinforced plastics, which are used world-wide in various applications. A novel nanofabrication strategy to develop high dielectric constant nanocomposite is also introduced, as well as a novel approach for systematic investigation of polymer nanocomposites.

It is difficult to imagine how our highly evolved technological society would function, or how life would even exist on our planet, if polymers did not exist. The intensive study of polymeric systems, which has been under way for several decades, has recently yielded new insights into the properties of assemblies of these complex molecules and the physical principles that govern their behavior. These developments have included new concepts to describe aspects of the many body behavior in these systems, microscopic analyses that bring our understanding of these systems much closer to our understanding of simple liquids and solids, and the discovery of novel chemistry that these molecules can catalyze.
This special topic volume of Advances in Chemical Physics surveys a number of these recent accomplishments. Supplemented with more than 250 illustrations, it provides a significant, up-to-date selection of papers by inter-nationally recognized researchers.
Topics include:
* Theory of Polyelectrolyte Solutions
* Star Polymers: Experiment, Theory, and Simulation
* Tethered Polymer Layers
* Living Polymers
* Transport and Kinetics in Electroactive Polymers
Self-contained, authoritative, and timely, Polymeric Systems makes the cutting edge of polymer research available to scientists in every branch of chemical physics.
Contributors to POLYMERIC SYSTEMS
JEAN-LOUIS BARRAT, DA(c)partement de Physique des MatA(c)riaux, UniversitA(c) Claude Bernard-Lyon l, France
A. BAUMGARTNER, Institut fA1/4r FestkArperforschung, Germany
M. A. CARIGNANO, Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
LEWIS J. FETTERS, CorporateResearch Science Laboratories, Exxon Research and Engineering Company, Annandale, New Jersey
SANDRA C. GREER, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Maryland at College Park
GARY S. GREST, Corporate Research Science Laboratories, Exxon Research and Engineering Company, Annandale, New Jersey
JOHN S. HUANG, Corporate Research Science Laboratories, Exxon Research and Engineering Company, Annandale, New Jersey
JEAN-FRANAOIS JOANNY, Institut Charles Sadron, France
MICHAEL E. G. LYONS, Electroactive Polymer Research Group, Physical Chemistry Laboratory, University of Dublin, Ireland
M. MUTHUKUMAR, Department of Polymer Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts
DIETER RICHTER, Institut fA1/4r FestkArperforschung, Germany
I. SZLEIFER, Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana

Double hydrophilic block copolymers (DHBCs) constitute a novel class of water-soluble macromolecules with potential utilisation in a wide range of applications. In this book, the current developments in the field of double hydrophilic block copolymers are discussed. In particular, synthetic strategies leading to the preparation of DHBCs are described. Moreover, their aqueous solution behaviour is examined in respect to their ability to self assemblage, due to changes in the solution temperature, and/or pH, as well as due to complexation. This book also reviews the contribution of soluble polymer-supported ligands and isoluble polymer-supported ligands to asymmetric catalysis in various fields by means of nitrogen containing ligands complex with metal as asymmetric catalyst. Furthermore, the authors propose new surfactants or alternative synthetic procedures, and new stabilisation systems for polymeric nanoparticles. Other chapters in this book examine the effects of physical ageing near the surface region of glass polymers, the application of Hindered Amine Stabilisers (HAS) as a state-of-the-art approach to protection of carbon-chain polymers, the molecular self-assembly of block copolymers and recent developments in the field of various amphiphilic block copolymers, and future perspectives in the field of DHBCs regarding general polymer science and nanotechnology issues.

The present book focuses on the preparation, properties, characterisation and applications of polymer nanocomposites. The various manufacturing techniques, analysis of morphology, filler dispersion, and interfacial interactions have been described in detail. In the case of polymer nanocomposites, filler dispersion, intercalation/exfoliation, orientation and filler-matrix interaction are the main parameters that determine the physical, thermal, transport, mechanical and rheological properties of the nanocomposites. In this book the ultimate properties of the nanocomposites have been correlated with the key parameters of filler dispersion and filler-matrix interaction. The use of various sophisticated instrument techniques for the characterisation of these nanocomposites are also reviewed.

Polyester (aka Terylene) is a category of polymers which contain the ester functional group in their main chain. Although there are many forms of polyesters, the term "polyester" is most commonly used to refer to polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Other forms of polyester include the naturally-occurring cutin of plant cuticles as well as synthetic polyesters such as polycarbonate and polybutyrate.Polyester may be produced in numerous forms. For example, polyester as a thermoplastic may be heated and processed into different forms and shapes, eg: fibres, sheets and three-dimensional shapes. While combustible at high temperatures, polyester tends to shrink away from flames and self-extinguishes. This book provides leading edge research on this field from around the globe.

This book addresses the problems regarding PVC and PVC materials, their low thermo-light stability and low performance which are also ecological problems. The manufacture of PVC (polyvinylchloride) is increasing continuously. The manufacture of PVC today is developing in Russia, China, India, Egypt and other countries. In this monograph the application of polyfluoroperoxide initiators is shown.

Protection of natural biopolymers: proteins (collagen, keratin), carbohydrates (starch, cellulose) and others, is a very acute problem. Numerous fungi, insects and rodents damage raw materials, and finished products both during manufacturing and at storage. To study methods and protection facilities we systematised information on main types of biodestructors and gave numerous examples of synthesis of the most known and active preparations to control insects and other organisms damaging natural polymers in light and food industries. The monograph is written by a group of authors famous for their papers on chemistry of low-molecular bioregulators and means for plant protection.

The injection molding industry has a new, up-to-date, comprehensive handbook. Serving engineers, professionals, and others involved in this important industry sector, the handbook thoroughly covers every detail of the machine and the process. This all-encompassing resource also includes the topics directly affecting the injection molding process, such as materials, process control, simulation, design, and troubleshooting. The handbook presents a well-rounded overview of the underlying theory and physics that control the common injection molding process variation, without losing the practical hands-on presentation used throughout. This important book was written by a specifically chosen group of authors with a wide range of experience and perspective on the injection molding process - authors who are leading practitioners and researchers both in industry and academia.

This comprehensive reference book incorporates the latest developments in the synthesis, production, characterization, and application of various types of polymeric nanocomposites. It outlines the various preparation techniques using different types of nanoparticles and polymer matrices with emphasis on clay nanoparticles. All fundamental issues such as thermodynamics, kinetics, and rheology are discussed and the structure and the characterization of polymeric nanocomposites, including their molecular characteristics, thermal properties, morphology, and mechanical properties, are covered in great detail.

Preface; Enhancement of miscibility in multi-component solutions on the basis of three polymers and common solvents; Reinforcement of the Interface in Drawn Polymer Blends PS/PA-12; Quantum chemical calculation linear olefins and not conjugate diolefins; Technology computers search of new more effective catalysts cationic polymerisation olefins; Quantum chemical calculation and an estimation of acid force linear and ramified connected diens; Magnetic rectal suppositories for medical application: Investigation of their physical and chemical properties; Studying of a magnetic resonance in contrasting agents on the basis of biodecomposed magnetic fluids; Investigation of Micellisation at Non-ionic Surfactants in their solutions; Association of molecules and formation of micelles in solutions ionic surfactants; The interaction of surfactants with Ion Polymeric Sorbents; How the structure of sulphuryl amides influences the light stabilising properties; Of complex aerohydrodynamic research and the effectiveness of arresting dispersed particles for barbotage-rotation; The mechanism of selective oxidation of ethylbenzene with dioxygen into phenylethylhydroperoxide at catalysis by Fe(III)(acac)3, activated with additives of 18-crown-6 as ligand-modifier; Enhanced photo and thermal oxidative stability of charge-transfer complexes of conjugated polymers; Preparation and investigation of physical and chemical properties of ionic magnetic fluids on the basis of cobalt ferrite; Immunomagnetic separation of human hematopoietic cells: Physical -- chemical bases and medical -- biologic investigation; Emulsion polymerisation of (meth)acrylates: Characteristics of kinetics and mechanism; Behaviour of composite materials under micro-organisms of soil; New technologies for fast liquid-phase chemical processes; Index.

It has been well-recognized that polymer blends offer a key option in solving emerging application requirements. The ability to combine existing polymers into new compositions with commercializable properties offers the advantage of reduced research and development expense compared to the development of new monomers and polymers to yield a similar property profile. An additional advantage is the much lower capital expense involved with scale-up and commercialization. Another specific advantage of polymer blends versus new monomer/polymer compositions is that blends often offer property profile combinations not easily obtained with new polymeric structures. In the rapidly emerging technology landscape, polymer blend technology can quickly respond to developing needs. This book offers a comprehensive overview of this important field, in particular a unique and extensive literature research on all aspects of this technology. It can be utilized as a reference text as well as a textbook for a graduate level course on polymer blends.

Mold design is one of the most challenging tasks in injection molding and it is crucial for successful profitable operations. The book compiles the experience of many seasoned designers and presents tried and tested molds that run successfully in production. For this fourth edition, changes and supplements were once again undertaken with the aim of representing the state of the art. The book is written by practitioners for practitioners, describing problem solving in the design and the manufacture of injection molds.

Polymers are substances containing a large number of structural units joined by the same type of linkage. These substances often form into a chain-like structure. Starch, cellulose, and rubber all possess polymeric properties. Today, the polymer industry has grown to be larger than the aluminium, copper and steel industries combined. Polymers already have a range of applications that far exceeds that of any other class of material available to man. Current applications extend from adhesives, coatings, foams, and packaging materials to textile and industrial fibres, elastomers, and structural plastics. Polymers are also used for most composites, electronic devices, biomedical devices, optical devices, and precursors for many newly developed high-tech ceramics. This new book presents leading-edge research in this rapidly-changing and evolving field.

This book addresses traditional polymer processing as well as the emerging technologies associated with the plastics industry in the 21st century, and combines engineering modeling aspects with computer simulation of realistic polymer processes. This book is designed to provide a polymer processing background to engineering students and practicing engineers. This three-part textbook is written for a two-semester polymer processing series in mechanical and chemical engineering. The first and second part of the book are designed for a senior- to graduate level course, introducing polymer processing, and the third part is for a graduate course on simulation in polymer processing. Throughout the book, many applications are presented in form of examples and illustrations. These will also serve the practicing engineer as a guide when determining important parameters and factors during the design process or when optimizing a process. Examples are presented throughout the book, and problems and solutions are available.