Phase morphology in multicomponent polymer-based systems represents the main physical characteristic that allows for control of the material design and implicitly the development of new plastics. Emphasizing properties of these promising new materials in both solution and solid phase, this book describes the preparation, processing, properties, and practical implications of advanced multiphase systems from macro to nanoscales. It covers a wide range of systems including copolymers, polymer blends, polymer composites, gels, interpenetrating polymers, and layered polymer/metal structures, describing aspects of polymer science, engineering, and technology. The book analyzes experimental and theoretical aspects regarding the thermal and electrical transport phenomena and magnetic properties of crucial importance in advanced technologies. It reviews the most recent advances concerning morphological, rheological, interfacial, physical, fire-resistant, thermophysical, and biomedical properties of multiphase polymer systems. Concomitantly the book deals with basic investigation techniques that are sensitive in elucidating the features of each phase. It also discusses the latest research trends that offer new solutions for advanced bio- and nanotechnologies. Introduces an overview of recent studies in the area of multiphase polymer systems, their micro- and nanostructural evolutions in advanced technologies, and provides future outlooks, new challenges and opportunities. Discusses multicomponent structures that offer enhanced physical, mechanical, thermal, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties adapted to current requirements of modern technologies. Covers a wide range of materials, such as composites, blends, alloys, gels and interpenetrating polymer networks. Presents new strategies for controlling the micro- and nanomorphology and the mechanical properties of multiphase p

This book offers an insight into the primary and secondary manufacturing of different class of polymer matrix composites (PMCs). The major focus is on the fabrication of a variety of PMCs with substantial coverage of various processing techniques and related advantages and limitations. The book also describes secondary manufacturing processes such as machining and joining of PMCs and provides the know-how related to developing these techniques. It discusses recently commercialized tools and techniques and highlights the opportunities provided by the design and development of newer cutting tools and machining methods. The book covers material selection guidelines, product manufacturability, product development process, and cost-estimating techniques that help readers to understand where a process fits within the overall scheme and which is appropriate for a particular component. This book provides professionals with valuable information related to composites product manufacturing as well as state-of-the-art knowledge in this field.

This comprehensive, long-needed reference provides the thorough understanding required tomodify and manipulate rigid PVC's thermal/shear sensitivity and rheological properties, helpingyou utilize rigid PVC most effectively in manufacturing applications as diverse as pipes,house siding, bottles , window frames, and packaging films.With complete, up-to-the-minute coverage in one convenient source, Engineering with RigidPVC encompasses rheological principles, resin properties, and additive modification, as wellas polymer preparation, melt processing, and forming techniques ... major conversion operationsand their manufacturing applications-including actual commercial formulations andprocesses .. . quality control procedures necessary to monitor compounding processes ...aspects of processability critical for product development and improvement .. . and muchmore.International in scope, this time- and money-saver is an eseential daily resource for all professionalsinvolved in Engineering with Rigid PVC, including plastics engineers, polymer chemists,process engineers, and plastics processors and technicians. Furthermore, the volume isideal for training programs and professional seminars, and is an outstanding supplement forstudents in polymer chemistry , materials science , and plastics engineering.

Together, the nano explosion and the genomic revolution are ushering in a new frontier in drug delivery. In recent years we've seen how polymers can play a crucial role in controlling the rate of drug release, enhancing solubility and uptake, and limiting degradation and toxicity. In the very near future, they may well be used to deliver gene therapy. While Polymers in Drug Delivery offers much new insight for the veteran specialist, this work has been compiled with the non-specialist in mind. It includes contributions from many of the world's leading drug delivery specialists, yet avoids jargon and presents background information that initiates the next generation of scientists into the amazing work going on at the frontiers of this rapidly evolving science. Targeting specific issues at the forefront of drug delivery today, this engaging volume- * Outlines the issues that must be considered when selecting a polymer for fabricating a drug delivery agent or other medical devices * Explains the more commonly used methods by which polymers may be characterized prior to use * Profiles polymer matrices that have been used in the formulation of solid oral dosage forms, drug delivery scaffolds, and hydrogels * Examines the issues surrounding the encapsulation of biologics within microspheres * Explores the use of nanoparticulates, especially solid nanoparticles and nanocapsules prepared from largely-water-insoluble cyanoacrylate polymers * Discusses polymeric micelles and investigates the potential of soluble polymer prodrugs and polymer nanomedicines * Details the contribution made by polymers and dendrimers to the gene delivery effort, which may one day lead to effective treatments for largely incurable diseases Noting a dramatic paradigm shift that is bridging the gap between materials science and life science, the editor's have compiled this volume to paint an interdisciplinary portrait of drug delivery that will challenge young scientists to turn their attention and effort towards this critical branch of biomedicine. Containing state-of-the-art information for drug delivery scientists, it is also a great choice for medical and pharmaceutical students and others seeking an in-depth introduction to the field.

Practical and affordable, thermoplastics account for more than 90 percent of all plastic materials manufactured. That so many varieties are now available, speaks to the idea that while there is no one perfect material, it is possible to find a material that fits for every application. However, selecting that right material is no small challenge. Answering the needs of manufacturers and product developers, Thermoplastic Materials: Properties, Manufacturing Methods, and Applications provides all the information required to confidently select the right thermoplastic for any application. Based on a course taught to engineering students, the book starts with an overview of the plastics industry, looking at the major companies involved and how their products influence society. It then discusses various topics essential to the understanding and manufacturing of thermoplastics before getting to the core of the book, more than 400 pages of consistently formatted entries, organized according to 19 thermoplastics families and groupings. Each chapter covers raw materials, manufacturing methods, properties, costs, and applications. Among many topics related to thermoplastic resins, this seminal work: Provides micro and quasi-macro perspectives on their behavior Evaluates major manufacturing methods Discusses crystallinity and permeability Elaborates on the properties that make them useful barrier and packaging materials Written by Christopher Ibeh, professor of plastics engineering technology and director of the Center for Nanocomposites and Multifunctional Materials at Pittsburg State University, this book goes beyond current practices to look at emerging materials, including nanocomposites, and discusses sustainability as it relates to plastics. It also includes a chapter on functionalized thermoplastics, written by Andrey Beyle.

A study of the physical, mechanical and corrosion resistant properties of all the most common commercially available plastics and elastomers. It offers examples of typical applications and describes methods of joining. The physical, mechanical and corrosion resistant properties of 32 thermoplastics, 20 thermosets, and 27 elastomers are provided. There are more than 300 tables and chemical structures.

Biomaterials have had a major impact on the practice of contemporary medicine and patient care. Growing into a major interdisciplinary effort involving chemists, biologists, engineers, and physicians, biomaterials development has enabled the creation of high-quality devices, implants, and drug carriers with greater biocompatibility and biofunctionality. The fast-paced research and increasing interest in finding new and improved biocompatible or biodegradable polymers has provided a wealth of new information, transforming this edition of Polymeric Biomaterials into a two-volume set. This volume, Polymeric Biomaterials: Structure and Function, contains 25 authoritative chapters written by experts from around the world. Contributors cover the following topics: The structure and properties of synthetic polymers including polyesters, polyphosphazenes, and elastomers The structure and properties of natural polymers such as mucoadhesives, chitin, lignin, and carbohydrate derivatives Blends and composites-for example, metal-polymer composites and biodegradable polymeric/ceramic composites Bioresorbable hybrid membranes, drug delivery systems, cell bioassay systems, electrospinning for regenerative medicine, and more Completely revised and expanded, this state-of-the-art reference presents recent developments in polymeric biomaterials: from their chemical, physical, and structural properties to polymer synthesis and processing techniques and current applications in the medical and pharmaceutical fields.

When combined with reinforcing agents, plastics can be used for a number of high-temperature applications. Plastics Reinforcement and Industrial Applications provides a detailed discussion on plastics, polymers, and reinforcing agents (including organic and natural biomaterials). Focused specifically on improving the mechanical, thermal, and electrical stability of plastics by combining them with reinforcing agents, this book explains the background of reinforced plastics and describes how they work. The book examines reinforcing agents that include glass fibers, carbon fibers, carbon nanotubes, graphite, talc, and minerals, and commonly used plastics such as polyamides, polyesters, polyethylene terephthalate, and epoxy resins. It also introduces newer plastics such as polyimides, polysulfones, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene sulfide, and polyether ether ketones. It highlights recent developments in the field that include the use of nanocomposites for manufacturing sports equipment, and other applications of nanoparticles in polymer reinforcement. In addition, use of this material can aid in the production of plastics utilized in the construction of aircraft and light weight automobiles. The author covers a wide range of applications that may be applied in general engineering, automotive, aerospace, building materials, electronics and microelectronics, power sources, medical, and bioengineering. He also includes material on natural fibers used for reinforcement and green chemistry applications. Suitable for use in the metals and plastics industries, Plastics Reinforcement and Industrial Applications is an ideal resource for polymer and material scientists, and chemical and mechanical engineers.

Inorganic-Whisker-Reinforced Polymer Composites: Synthesis, Properties and Applications gives a comprehensive presentation of inorganic microcrystalline fibers, or whiskers, a polymer composite filler. It covers whisker synthesis, surface modification, applications for reinforcing polymer-matrix composites, and analysis of resulting filled polymer composites. It focuses on calcium carbonate whiskers as a primary case study, introducing surface treatment methods for calcium carbonate whiskers and factors that influence them. Along with calcium carbonate, the book discusses potassium titanate and aluminum borate whiskers, which also comprise the new generation of inorganic whiskers. According to research results, composites filled by inorganic whiskers show improved strength, wear-resistance, thermal conductivity, and antistatic properties. It explains the importance of modifying polymer materials for use with inorganic whiskers and describes preparation and evaluation methods of polymers filled with inorganic whiskers. The book also considers possible challenges and solutions in synthesis and applications of polymers filled with inorganic whiskers. It summarizes the latest practices and research progress in China and elsewhere. With much of its information being new outside of China, Inorganic-Whisker-Reinforced Polymer Composites calls attention to the excellent promise displayed by applications of inorganic whiskers. They have the potential for wide and durable application and also for further development. This book demonstrates their potential and presents current and future directions in polymer science and inorganic whiskers.

Hydrophilic polyurethanes have the unique property of being able to absorb or otherwise manage moisture-and this makes them valuable in medical and a number of other important commercial applications. This new book provides a concise, unified presentation of hydrophilic polyurethanes technology and applications. All important topics from chemistry, analysis, processing and quality systems to product development and applications are covered clearly and systematically. The text is well illustrated by more than 45 flowcharts and diagrams and supplemented by more than 20 data tables. A special feature of this new book is its inclusion of case studies of recent development of commercially valuable products using hydrophilic polyurethanes. These case studies illustrate how these unique materials can be tailored to specific application needs. The information in this new book will be useful to all those involved in the research, development and applications of polymers, biomaterials, and other materials whose utility requires the special properties of hydrophilic polyurethanes. To receive your copy promptly, please order now. Information on ordering - by mail, fax, telephone or the publisher's secure website - follows the complete table of contents on the reverse. The Author Tim Thomson is the director of Main Street Technologies, an independent research organization specializing in the development of advanced medical materials and devices. Previously he was technical manager of the Hypol Group, W. R. Grace & Co. He is recognized as an authority on hydrophilic polyurethanes and their use in medical device and other applications. He has an M.S. in Physical Chemistry from Michigan Technological University and has been awarded six patents in synthetic chemistry and process control.

FROM THE PREFACE The surface modification of polymeric materials has been the object of a large number of investigations, but little attention has been paid to making a polymer surface frictionless or slippery, and lubricating surfaces are practically unmentioned in any books so far published, probably because of the relatively minor importance of polymer friction in industrial applications. A lubricating polymer surface is important, especially in marine and biomedical technologies. For instance, biomaterials to be used for catheterization on the urinary, tracheal, and cardiovascular tracts, or for endoscopy, should have a surface with good handling characteristics when dry and which preferably becomes slippery upon contact with body liquids. Such a low-friction surface must enable easy insertion and removal of the device from a patient. It would further prevent mechanical injury to the mucous membranes and minimize discomfort to the patient. Earlier approaches to providing a low-friction surface were mostly simple applications involving lubricants such as lidocaine jelly, silicone oil, or non-permanent coating with low-friction materials such as polyethylene or fluoroplastics. However, these substances cannot maintain a high degree of slipperiness for the required duration of time, due to the fact that they leach or disperse into the surrounding body fluids. The aim of this book is to describe the principle of lubrication, to outline a variety of methods for attaining a lubricous surface, and to describe the characteristics and properties of such lubricous surfaces. The technology for surface modification of polymers by grafting will find other applications than for lubrication, such as for improvement of the interfacial adhesion in polymer composites.

"Provides in-depth coverage of the entire thermoforming molding process from market domain and materials options to manufacturing methods and peripheral support. Second Edition furnishes entirely new information on twin sheet forming, corrugated tubing and pipe manufacturin gtechniques, plastics recycling, forthcoming equipment, and energy and labor costs."

Analytical Methods for Polymer Characterization presents a collection of methods for polymer analysis. Topics include chromatographic methods (gas chromatography, inverse gas chromatography, and pyrolysis gas chromatography), mass spectrometry, spectroscopic methods (ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance), thermal analysis (differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry), microscopy methods (scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy), and x-ray diffraction. The author also discusses mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties.

Focusing on the applied and basic aspects of confined liquid crystals, this book provides a current treatise of the subject matter and places it in the broader context of electrooptic applications. The book takes an interdisciplinary approach to the subject, combining basic principles of physics, chemistry, polymer science, materials science and engineering.

This book introduces the growing problem of microplastics pollution in the soil and aquatic environment and its interaction with other chemical pollutants. Further, it provides a detailed review of existing analysis techniques for characterization, separation, and quantification of microplastics including their merits and demerits with possible suggestions. Additionally, the regulatory need and actions for improving the economic and quality of plastic recycling, curbing microplastic littering, and stakeholders, researchers, and recyclers challenges are reviewed comprehensively. Priorities are identified to bridge the knowledge gaps for appropriate management of existing challenges. Features: Provides a comprehensive description of the fate and environmental impact of microplastics, along with various characterization methods Overviews the interaction of microplastics with other toxic chemicals and further their transportation in environment Explains how microplastics enter in environment and its effect on biota and human health Analyses existing analytical techniques for characterization of microplastics Describes societal awareness related to use of plastic and discarding This book focusses on graduate students, researchers in environmental engineering, ecological engineering, chemical and biological engineering, plastics and material sciences/engineering, waste management. materials science.

This book contains papers presented in various technical sessions at the Polyurethanes Expo 2001 conference held between September 30-October 3, 2001 at Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, Ohio.

Science and Applications of Conducting Polymers emphasizes potential industrial applications of conducting polymers. The papers presented discuss the basic physics and chemistry of conducting polymers, followed by an in-depth examination of applications. The book is ideal for researchers in polymer physics, electronics, optics, and semiconductor physics.

This work examines the science and technology used in the manufacture of acrylic fibre for both mass-produced commodity products and premium products. It elucidates the chemistry and fibre production techniques of speciality acrylics such as flame-retardant, water-reversible bicomponent, producer dyed and others. Capacity figures for developing countries are published here.;This work is intended for: polymer, fibre and textile scientists, chemists and engineers; physical and dye chemists; textile company managers; and upper-level undergraduate and graduate students in these disciplines.

Comprising one volume of Functional and Modified Polymeric Materials, Two-Volume Set, this well-organized collection of papers by Professor Eli Ruckenstein and co-workers focuses on functional and modified polymeric materials prepared mainly through solution polymerization and surface polymerization. Although solution polymerization has been broadly utilized for the preparation of polymeric materials, the book shows significant approaches to special classes of polymeric materials including functional polymers by living ionic polymerization, degradable and decrosslinkable polymers, semi- and interpenetrating polymer network pervaporation membranes, and soluble conducting polymers. It also focuses on preparing and modifying conductive surface of polymer or polymer-based materials.

Comprising one volume ofFunctional and Modified Polymeric Materials, Two-Volume Set, this curated collection of papers by Professor Eli Ruckenstein and co-workers discusses the merits of concentrated emulsion polymerization systems, as well as their ability to yield a broad variety of products with high synthetic efficiency. Comprised of carefully curated chapters previously published by these pioneering scientists in the field, this volume offers a comprehensive view of the subject and presents functional and modified polymeric materials prepared by concentrated emulsion polymerization approaches. It covers conductive polymer composites, core-shell latex particles, enzyme/catalyst carriers, and plastics toughening and compatibilization polymerization. The authors have performed seminal studies on the preparation of functional and modified polymeric materials via concentrated emulsion polymerization. The corresponding research papers, after further selection and classification, are collected in the four chapters of this book.

Comprised of carefully curated chapters previously published by Prof. Ruckenstein and colleagues, this two-volume set offers a comprehensive overview of functional and modified polymeric materials focusing on concentrated emulsion polymerization, conducting polymers, living ionic polymerization, degradable polymers, polymer membranes, and polymer-inorganic hybrid materials. The first volume presents functional and modified polymer materials prepared by concentrated emulsion polymerization approaches. The second covers functional and modified polymer materials prepared mainly through solution polymerization and surface polymerization.

Derived from the fourth edition of the well-known "Plastics Technology Handbook," Plastics Fundamentals, Properties, and Testing covers the behavior, characterization, and evaluation of polymers. With a lucid approach and wealth of valuable information, this volume looks at the remarkable versatility of this nonmetallic class of materials.

Examining polymers at the molecular level, the book first discusses their inherent properties and how their end-use properties can be influenced through changes in the molecular architecture or incorporation of various fillers and additives. The authors coherently present a wide spectrum of topics by sequentially introducing structural aspects, properties, and applications. They then proceed to explore the mechanical, electrical, optical, and thermal properties of polymers, providing theoreticalderivations where necessary as well as explanations on molecular and structural features. To identify the principles involved, the book also furnishes the bases of many standard test methods according to ASTM and BS 2782 specifications.

Written and edited by experts on specialty elastomers applications in the mechanical and automotive products industries, the Handbook of Specialty Elastomers provides a single source reference for the design of compounds using specialty elastomers.

This book defines specialty elastomers as heat-, oil-, fuel-, and solvent-resistant polymers. Each chapter examines individual elastomers in terms of development history, chemical composition, structure, and properties as well as processing methods, applications, and commercially available products. Covering their applications in the rubber, energy, chemicals, and oil industries, the book also discusses the use of antioxidants, antiozonants, vulcanization agents, plasticizers, and process aids for specialty elastomers. The concluding chapter details considerations and relevant processes-such as molding operations-involved in designing application-specific rubber components.

The Handbook of Specialty Elastomers provides comprehensive insight into the processes and challenges of designing rubber formulations and specialty elastomeric components.

Flame Retardant Polymeric Materials provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field, from basic properties and mechanisms of action for flame retardants to emerging methods, materials, and industrial applications. With over 120 black and white images, Hu and Wang cover the latest in the development of novel polymer nanocomposites such as graphene, CNTs, LDHs, POSS, and techniques such as layer-by-layer assembly. These expert authors also include discussions on the important flame-retardant systems based on phosphorus, silicon, and boron. In doing so, they highlight the use of flame-retardants in varying industries, for example, construction, textiles, and aviation. This comprehensive handbook is an essential read for students and academics of physics with a particular interest in flame-retardant materials. It would also be recommended for professionals within the materials science and engineering fields.

The first book to tackle the application of smart polymers in bioseparation and bioprocessing, Smart Polymers: Applications in Biotechnology and Biomedicine broke new ground in this challenging field. Completely revised, updated, and following in the footsteps of its predecessor, the second edition is poised to take its place as a premier reference in this field. This new edition considers those polymers in which a highly nonlinear response of a smart polymer to small changes in the external medium is of critical importance for the successful functioning of the system. The systems discussed are based on soluble/insoluble transition of smart polymers in aqueous solution, on conformational transitions of the macromolecules physically attached or chemically grafted to a surface and on the shrinking/swelling of covalently cross-linked networks of macromolecules, i.e. smart hydrogels.

The book focuses on the theory describing the behavior of smart polymers in solution, as gels, and when grafted to surfaces. It provides solid, quantitative descriptions and reliable guidelines, reflecting the maturation of the field and the demand for the development of new smart polymer systems. The coverage highlights smart gels and especially fast responding and macroporous gels, as these gels pave the way to different applications of smart polymers in the areas ofbioseparation, drug release, and microfluidics. With contributions from leading researchers as well as extensive end-of-chapter references, this volume offers a comprehensive overview of the current state-of-the-art in the field and the potential for future developments.