Polyurethane sealants are used in many high-volume applications such as construction and automotive. This volume provides an in-depth, illustrated survey of both the technology and applications. The detailed information will be useful to all those involved in the research, development, processing, evaluation and use of sealants for high-volume applications.

Since the early 1970s the subject of biodegradable plastics has acquired a rapidly growing literature of academic research papers. It has also acquired a formidable volume of patent documentation and all this has been over whelmed by an astonishing quantity of serious media and political com ment. A new entrant into any technical arena w. ould, in most technologies, simply visit their technical library and pick up a text book on the subject in the expectation of absorbing the basic facts before launching into the daily task of updating and evaluating. Scientific conferences have produced many substantial volumes carrying the word 'biodegradable' on their covers, and there has even been a specialist monograph on the topic of bacterially produced polymers but, surprisingly, no book has yet emerged providing a general survey of the subject. Having devoted half my pro fessional career to the subject of biodegradable plastics I agreed to take on the editorial job of producing such a book when asked by the publisher. I knew that the task of finding expert specialists and persuading them to contribute dispassionate accounts of their specialisms would not be easy, but the difficulties that I have encountered were far greater than I expected. Some were simply too busy, others were involved in patent disputes or commercial negotiations. In giving an account of the work that I and my students carried out at BruneI University I believe that I have written in a manner that displays enthusiasm without prejudice."

The basic problem of polymer physics is obtaining aEURO~structure-propertiesaEURO (TM) correlations for their future application for practical purposes. However, these cannot be obtained without the development of a quantitative model of the polymer structure. This problem has been actively investigated during the last 45 years, which resulted in obtaining a great amount of experimental (mostly indirect) proofs of existence of the local order in the polymer amorphous state. Now, the time has come for creating a structural model of polymer basing based on the local order ideas. The cluster model, as presented in this monograph, of the polymer amorphous state structure represents the realization of such attempts. The development of this cluster model is based on well-known experimental observation: the behavior of glassy polymers in the area of stimulated high-elasticity plateau is described in the framework of rubber elasticity concepts. This gives an opportunity to present the local order (cluster) zone as a multifunctional entanglement of the physical network consisting of several collinear closely packed segments of different macromolecules (the amorphous analogue of crystallite with extended chains) and surrounded by a packless matrix. An independent method for assessing local order zone fraction in the structure has been elaborated. Segment length in the cluster equals the length of the chain statistical segment that gives a correlation between molecular and structural parameters of the polymer. Application of the cluster model allowed description and obtaining of analytical aEURO~structure-propertiesaEURO (TM) correlations for many processes proceeding in polymers: elasticity, yielding, degradation, transport, some thermodynamic processes, structural relaxation, plasticization, structural stabilization at thermo-oxidative degradation, etc. The relation between the cluster model and some modern physical concepts, for instance fractal analysis, fluctuation free volume kinetic

This is a new, basic introduction to polymer science. It is both comprehensive and readable. The authors are leading educators in this field with extensive backgrounds in industrial and academic polymer research. The text starts with a description of the types of microstructures found in polymer materials. This provides an understanding of some of the key features of the various mechanisms of homopolymerization and copolymerization which are discussed in following chapters. Also discussed in these chapters are the kinetics and statistics of polymerization, with a separate chapter on the characterization of chain structure by spectroscopic methods. The next part of the text deals with chain conformation, structure and morphology, leading to a discussion of crystallization, melting and glass transition. The discussion then moves from solid state to solution properties where solution thermodynamics is introduced. This provides the basis for discussion of the measurement of molecular weight by various solution methods. The final chapter deals with mechanical and rheological properties which are discussed from a phenomenological continuum approach and then in terms of a fundamental molecular perspective. Altogether, this new text provides a comprehensive, readable introduction to and overview of polymer science. It is well illustrated with schematics prepared for this text to help in the understanding of key concepts. It will provide a basic understanding of today's polymer science for technical and engineering personnel not already familiar with the subject, and a convenient update and overview for materials scientists.

Independent, practical guidance on the structural design of polymer composites is provided for the first time in this book. Structural designers familiar with design of conventional structural materials such as steel and concrete will be able to use it to design a broad range of polymeric composites for structural applications, using glass fibre reinforced plastic materials, components, connections and assemblies.

This is a complete illustrated guide and reference to today's plastic films for packaging. All significant aspects of plastic films for packaging are clearly and concisely presented: from materials, processes and machinery to applications and regulatory, social and economic considerations. More than 70 schematics illustrate materials, processes and package constructions. More than 30 tables provide important reference data in convenient form. The authors are leading authorities on plastic packaging films with first-hand experience in the R&D of many of today's widely used films. Published in cooperation with the Institute of Packaging Professionals.

Polymeric Foams Structure-Property-Performance is a response to the design challenges faced by engineers in a growing market with evolving standards, new regulations and with an ever increasing variety of application types for polymeric foam.

Bernard Obi, an author with a wide experience in testing, characterizing and applying polymer foams, approaches this emerging complexity with a practical design methodology focusing on the understanding of the relationship between structure-properties of polymeric foams and their performance attributes. The book introduces the fundamentals of polymer and foam science and engineering but also goes into more depth to cover foam processing, properties, and uses for a variety of applications. By connecting the diverse technologies of polymer science to those from foam science, and by linking both micro and macro-structure-property relationships to key performance attributes the book gives engineers the information required to solve the pressing design problems involving the use of polymeric foams and to optimize the foam performance.

With a focus on applications in the automotive and transportation industries, and uses of foams in structural composites for light weighting applications, the author provides numerous case studies and design examples of real life industrial problems from various industries and their solutions.
Provides the science and engineering fundamentals relevant for solving polymer foam application problems

Offers a exceptionally practical methodology to tackle the increasing complexity of real-world design challenges faced by engineers working with foams. Discusses numerous case studies and design examples - with a focus on automotive and transportatio

The basic principles and mechanism of shape memory polymers, classification of shape memory polymers, and related characterization techniques are illustrated. Furthermore, an overview of the broad spectrum of applications in various fields for shape memory polymer is presented. Special focus will be given to hyperbranched, blended, interpenetrating and bio-based shape memory polymers, as well as shape memory polymer nanocomposites.

"Thermoforming of Single and Multilayer Laminates "explains the fundamentals of lamination and plastics thermoforming technologies along with current and new developments. It focuses on properties and thermoforming mechanics of plastic films and in particular single and multilayered laminates, including barrier films.

For environmental and economic reasons, laminates are becoming increasingly important as a replacement for solid sheets and paint finishes in many industries, including transportation, packaging, and construction. Yet the processes of film formability during the extensive deformation and elevated temperatures experienced in conventional processing technologies, such as thermoforming, are poorly understood by most engineers.

This book covers production processes, such as extrusion, calendaring, and casting, as well as mechanical and impact testing methods. It also describes how testing protocols developed for metals can be leveraged for plastic films and laminates, and includes a thorough discussion on methods for performing optical strain analysis.

Applications in transportation vehicles and packaging, including packaging for food, medical and electronics applications, sports equipment, and household appliances, are discussed. Safety, recycling and environmental aspects of thermoforming and its products complete the book.
First comprehensive source of information and hands-on guide for the thermoforming of multilayered laminatesCovers applications across such sectors as automotive, packaging, home goods, and constructionIntroduces new testing methods leveraging protocols used for metals

With the advent of polymer nanocomposites, research on polyolefin nanocomposites has grown exponentially. Correcting the deficiency of a meaningful text on these important materials, Advances in Polyolefin Nanocomposites: Sums up recent advances in nanoscale dispersion of filler in polyolefins Presents a basic introduction to polyolefin nanocomposite technology for the readers new to this field Provides insights on the use of technologies for polyolefins nanocomposites for commercial application Includes contributions from the most experienced researchers in the field Offers insights into the commercial usage of techniques The text uses theoretical models to illustrate the organic-inorganic interfaces in polyolefins and also provides a detailed description of the recently developed models for property prediction of these nanocomposites. It concentrates on developments with not only aluminosilicate fillers, but also with equally important fillers like layer double hydroxides and nanotubes. The authors review polyolefin nanocomposite technology and methodologies of generation, properties and generation of composite blends, and advances in synthesis of nanocomposites using solution blending methods. The book covers theoretical and experimental considerations of clay surface modification and the importance and effect of various prominent filler categories.

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.

Recent investigations into blast-resistant properties of polyureas and other multi-phase polymeric elastomers indicate that they can dissipate broad bands of frequencies such as those encountered in blast events. In this unique book, Elastomeric Polymers with High Rate Sensitivity, Dr. Roshdy Barsoum and expert contributors bring together the cutting-edge testing methodologies, material properties, and critical design data for engineers seeking to deploy this technology. Where conventional methods of resisting blast, shockwave, and penetration are expensive, time-consuming and impractical, high-strain rate elastomeric polymers (HSREP) can be cheaper, quicker, and more easily applied to new and old materials alike. This book aids both military and civilian engineers in a range of applications, from buildings and tunnels to lightweight armor, ships, and aircraft. The book features constitutive models for software developers designing with these advanced polymers, as well as a discussion of the mechanisms of interaction between high-strain rate polymers and other materials. It also thoroughly covers HSREP engineering methods to achieve other unique properties, such as fireproofing.

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.

Polymer translocation occurs in many biological and biotechnological phenomena where electrically charged polymer molecules move through narrow spaces in crowded environments. Unraveling the rich phenomenology of polymer translocation requires a grasp of modern concepts of polymer physics and polyelectrolyte behavior. Polymer Translocation discusses universal features of polymer translocations and summarizes the key concepts of polyelectrolyte structures, electrolyte solutions, ionic flow, mobility of charged macromolecules, polymer capture by pores, and threading of macromolecules through pores. With approximately 150 illustrations and 850 equations, the book: Avoids heavy mathematics Uses examples to illustrate the richness of the phenomenon Introduces the entropic barrier idea behind polymer translocation Outlines conceptual components necessary for a molecular understanding of polymer translocation Provides mathematical formulas for the various quantities pertinent to polymer translocation The challenge in understanding the complex behavior of translocation of polyelectrolyte molecules arises from three long-range forces due to chain connectivity, electrostatic interactions, and hydrodynamic interactions. Polymer Translocation provides an overview of fundamentals, established experimental facts, and important concepts necessary to understand polymer translocation. Readers will gain detailed strategies for applying these concepts and formulas to the design of new experiments.

During the past 10 years a large variety of new multiphase polymer-based materials have been studied from a morphological point of view. Simultaneously, huge progress has been achieved in microscopy. These circumstances underline the need for a reference that delineates the differences of various types of nanostructures in multiphase polymer-based materials. Multiphase Polymer-Based Materials: An Atlas of Phase Morphology at the Nano and Micro Scale presents up-to-date coverage of developments in this field in a practical and easy to use format. Illustrates Microscopic Tools for Phase Morphology Investigation The author sifted through an encyclopedic amount of information to provide a selection of more than 550 microscopy pictures resulting from the observation of multiphase polymer-based materials. These illustrations include micro and nanopolymer blends, micro and nanocomposites, micro and nano phases in copolymers, thermosets, and thermoplastic blends that were intensively developed over the past decade. Each picture includes a detailed explanation of how to attain these materials, how the samples were prepared, and how the observations were conducted. A Practical Straightforward Approach to Microscopic Observation The book examines the various microscopic tools employed for the investigation of the phase morphology, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each. It provides a practical, straightforward approach for dealing with the microscopic observation of phase morphology in multicomponent polymer blends and nanocomposites.

Derived from the fourth edition of the well-known Plastics Technology Handbook, Industrial Polymers, Specialty Polymers, and Their Applications covers a wide range of general and special types of polymers, along with a wealth of information about their applications. The book first focuses on commonly used industrial polymers, including polypropylenes, low- and high-density polyethylenes, and poly(vinyl chloride), as well as less widely used polymer types, such as acrylics, ether polymers, cellulosics, sulfide polymers, silicones, polysulfones, polyether ether ketones, and polybenzimidazoles. It then explores polymer derivatives and polymeric combinations that play special and often critical roles in diverse fields of human activities. The polymers covered include liquid crystal, electroactive, ionic, and shape memory polymers; hydrogels; and nanocomposites. The volume concludes with a comprehensive overview of new developments in the use of polymers in a variety of areas.

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.

An analysis of polymer and composite rheology. This second edition covers flow properties of thermoplastic and thermoset polymers, and general principles and applications of all phases of polymer rheology, with new chapters on the rheology of particulate and fibre composites. It also includes new and expanded detail on polymer blends and emulsions, foams, reacting systems, and flow through porous media as well as composite processing operations.

Details laboratory and industrial synthesis and applications of oligomers-suggesting practical solutions to the on-the-job problems as well as exploring processing devices and techniques for industrial-scale production of new oligomer types.

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."

Advanced Fibrous Composite Materials for Ballistic Protection provides the latest information on ballistic protection, a topic that remains an important issue in modern times due to ever increasing threats coming from regional conflicts, terrorism, and anti-social behavior. The basic requirements for ballistic protection equipment are first and foremost, the prevention of a projectile from perforating, the reduction of blunt trauma to the human body caused by ballistic impact, the necessity that they are thermal and provide moisture comfort, and that they are lightweight and flexible to guarantee wearer's mobility. The main aim of this book is to present some of the most recent developments in the design and engineering of woven fabrics and their use as layering materials to form composite structures for ballistic personal protection. Chapter topics include High Performance Ballistic Fibres, Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE), Ballistic Damage of Hybrid Composite Materials, Analysis of Ballistic Fabrics and Layered Composite Materials, and Multi-Scale Modeling of Polymeric Composite Materials for Ballistic Protection.

Basic concepts on biodegradable biopolymer science are presented in this book, as well as techniques, analyses, standards, and essential criteria for the characterization of biodegradable materials obtained from biopolymers. The development and innovation of products and processes considering the environment are highlighted in this book. All of the applications described have been discussed from the point of view of sustainability. Additionally, this book highlights that biodegradability is a great burden when trying to replace, modify, and/or design existing products, and processes that are highly polluting. Finally, the present book concludes with reflections on the development of biopolymers in different areas, and some of their consequences depending on their biodegradability.

Nitroxide-mediated polymerization is an important branch of controlled radical polymerization, which has revolutionised the preparation of polymer architectures and compositions. This is the first book dedicated to the topic and covers the history and development of nitroxide-mediated polymerization, as well as current techniques of academic and industrial interest. Nitroxide-Mediated Polymerization gathers together and comprehensively discusses all aspects of nitroxide-mediated polymerization, from fundamental principles through to industrial applications. A specific focus will be dedicated to the principle of the technique, its kinetics aspects, the synthesis of the controlling agents, the range of polymerizable monomers, its potential for preparation of advanced organic and hybrid materials and its status at the industrial stage. The book details all stages of the field, with chapters detailing the history, recent developments and novel materials in this fast developing area. Edited and written by expert researchers working in the field and academia this book focuses on highlighting the kinetic aspects of nitroxide-mediated polymerization, providing insight into the kinetics that can sometimes be hard to follow in published papers. The book will be of interest to polymer chemists and materials scientists at graduate level and above.

Representing the collective effort of over 30 leading scientists in Russia and the United States, this is the first book written solely on the subject of nuclear batteries. It presents a rich historical discussion and original research on the conversion of nuclear materials into electrical power, which can then be harvested to make long-lasting, more energy efficient batteries. With this technology, power-matched supplies would last decades - even centuries - using safe, direct, long-life, stable, integrated electric power from the highest energy density source available. Polymers, Phosphors, and Voltaics for Radioisotope Microbatteries presents the state-of-the-art in interdisciplinary research in radiochemistry, tritium storage, semiconductor fabrication and characterization, nuclear battery fabrication and testing, integration into MEMS and other electronic devices, and much more. A key feature of this book is its discussion of construction materials for miniaturized radioisotope power supplies, since progress in nuclear battery technology depends on characterization of functionally radiation-stable components. Though substantial progress has been made to solve problems of using integrated radioisotope batteries for micro- and nanoelectronics, each author has provided an authoritative assessment and has indicated where development is needed. Research in this area has the potential to revolutionize the microelectronics industry by enabling MEMS and nanotechnology. Significant technological progress depends today on coordinated interdisciplinary research. Polymers, Phosphors, and Voltaics for Radioisotope Microbatteries contains diverse discussions of the problems of using radioactive material for microelectronic power needs and guides readers to future research in the area of long-life, high energy-density batteries.