Algae Based Polymers, Blends, and Composites: Chemistry, Biotechnology and Material Sciences offers considerable detail on the origin of algae, extraction of useful metabolites and major compounds from algal bio-mass, and the production and future prospects of sustainable polymers derived from algae, blends of algae, and algae based composites. Characterization methods and processing techniques for algae-based polymers and composites are discussed in detail, enabling researchers to apply the latest techniques to their own work. The conversion of bio-mass into high value chemicals, energy, and materials has ample financial and ecological importance, particularly in the era of declining petroleum reserves and global warming. Algae are an important source of biomass since they flourish rapidly and can be cultivated almost everywhere. At present the majority of naturally produced algal biomass is an unused resource and normally is left to decompose. Similarly, the use of this enormous underexploited biomass is mainly limited to food consumption and as bio-fertilizer. However, there is an opportunity here for materials scientists to explore its potential as a feedstock for the production of sustainable materials.

The policy adopted in Volume 1 of this series of including a relatively small number of topics for detailed review has been continued here. The techniques selected have received considerable attention in recent years. F or this reason and because of the significance of the characterisation data, further coverage of 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and small angle neutron scattering is given in the first two chapters. In Chapter I a large part of the review describes the determination of monomer sequence distributions and configurational sequences in copolymers formed from more than one polymerisable monomer. The review on neutron scattering (Chapter 2) is directed towards the determination of the chain conformation in semi-crystaIIine polymers, which has provided important results for the interpretation of chain folding and morphology in crystaIIisable polymers. Laser Raman spectroscopy has also been used for morphological studies, and this application together with a description of the theoretical and experimental aspects of the technique is given in Chapter 3. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy because of its extreme sensitivity to surface characteristics has provided information on polymeric solids that could not be obtained by other techniques. The principles and practice of this ESCA technique, including its use for simple elemental analysis, structural elucidation and depth profiling, are described in Chapter 4. The final two chapters are mainly concerned with the chain conformation of polymers in dilute solution. Ultrasonic techniques (Chapter 5) show pmmise for observing the dynamics of conformational changes.

Seaweed Polysaccharides: Isolation, Biological, and Biomedical Applications examines the isolation and characterization of algal biopolymers, including a range of new biological and biomedical applications. In recent years, significant developments have been made in algae-based polymers (commonly called polysaccharides), and in biomedical applications such as drug delivery, wound dressings, and tissue engineering. Demand for algae-based polymers is increasing and represent a potential-very inexpensive-resource for these applications. The structure and chemical modification of algal polymers are covered, as well as the biological properties of these materials - including antithrombic, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, and antiviral aspects. Toxicity of algal biopolymers is also covered. Finally, the book introduces and explains real world applications of algal-based biopolymers in biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, drug delivery, and biosensors. This is the first book to cover the extraction techniques, biomedical applications, and the economic perspective of seaweed polysaccharides. It is an essential text for researchers and industry professionals looking to work with this renewable resource.

This work explores the use of composite nanotechnology for thin coatings on various substrates. It compiles recent advances in nanocomposite coatings for experienced researchers and provides background information for those new to the field. The book not only explains the synthesis of bulk nanocomposite materials, it describes their application in areas such as the automotive and packaging industries. It explains how nanocomposite coatings provide a gas barrier to the substrate foil or laminate and how the coatings are used to provide properties such as anti-scratch and anti-corrosion.

Carbon Nanotube-Reinforced Polymers: From Nanoscale to Macroscale addresses the advances in nanotechnology that have led to the development of a new class of composite materials known as CNT-reinforced polymers. The low density and high aspect ratio, together with their exceptional mechanical, electrical and thermal properties, render carbon nanotubes as a good reinforcing agent for composites. In addition, these simulation and modeling techniques play a significant role in characterizing their properties and understanding their mechanical behavior, and are thus discussed and demonstrated in this comprehensive book that presents the state-of-the-art research in the field of modeling, characterization and processing. The book separates the theoretical studies on the mechanical properties of CNTs and their composites into atomistic modeling and continuum mechanics-based approaches, including both analytical and numerical ones, along with multi-scale modeling techniques. Different efforts have been done in this field to address the mechanical behavior of isolated CNTs and their composites by numerous researchers, signaling that this area of study is ongoing.

Management of Marine Plastic Debris gives a thorough and detailed presentation of the global problem of marine plastics debris, covering every aspect of its management from tracking, collecting, treating and commercial exploitation for handing this anthropogenic waste. The book is a unique, essential source of information on current and future technologies aimed at reducing the impact of plastics waste in the oceans. This is a practical book designed to enable engineers to tackle this problem-both in stopping plastics from getting into the ocean in the first place, as well as providing viable options for the reuse and recycling of plastics debris once it has been recovered. The book is essential reading not only for materials scientists and engineers, but also other scientists involved in this area seeking to know more about the impact of marine plastics debris on the environment, the mechanisms by which plastics degrade in water and potential solutions. While much research has been undertaken into the different approaches to the increasing problem of plastics marine debris, this is the first book to present, evaluate and compare all of the available techniques and practices, and then make suggestions for future developments. The book also includes a detailed discussion of the regulatory environment, including international conventions and standards and national policies.

A practical handbook rather than merely a chemistry reference, Szycher's Handbook of Polyurethanes, Second Edition offers an easy-to-follow compilation of crucial new information on polyurethane technology, which is irreplaceable in a wide range of applications. This new edition of a bestseller is an invaluable reference for technologists, marketers, suppliers, and academicians who require cutting-edge, commercially valuable data on the most advanced uses for polyurethane, one of the most important and complex specialty polymers. internationally recognized expert Dr. Michael Szycher updates his bestselling industry "bible" With seven entirely new chapters and five that are revised and updated, this book summarizes vital contents from U.S. patent literature-one of the most comprehensive sources of up-to-date technical information. These patents illustrate the most useful technology discovered by corporations, universities, and independent inventors. Because of the wealth of information they contain, this handbook features many full-text patents, which are carefully selected to best illustrate the complex principles involved in polyurethane chemistry and technology. Features of this landmark reference include: Hundreds of practical formulations Discussion of the polyurethane history, key terms, and commercial importance An in-depth survey of patent literature Useful stoichiometric calculations The latest "green" chemistry applications A complete assessment of medical-grade polyurethane technology Not biased toward any one supplier's expertise, this special reference uses a simplified language and layout and provides extensive study questions after each chapter. It presents rich technical and historical descriptions of all major polyurethanes and updated sections on medical and biological applications. These features help readers better understand developmental, chemical, application, and commercial aspects of the subject.

Film Properties of Plastics and Elastomers, Fourth Edition is the only data handbook available on the engineering properties of commercial polymeric films. It details many physical, mechanical, optical, electrical and permeation properties within the context of specific test parameters, providing a ready reference for comparing materials in both the same and different families. Data is presented on the characteristics of major plastic and elastomer packaging materials, with the data in this edition updated to cover the five years since the previous edition was published. The resin chapters each contain textual summary information, including category, general description, processing methods, applications, reliability, weatherability, and regulatory approval considerations for use in food and medical packaging.

Micro and Nano Fibrillar Composites (MFCs and NFCs) from Polymer Blends is a comprehensive reference for researchers, students and scientists working in the field of plastics recycling and composites. The book aims to determine the influence of micro and nanofibrillar morphology on the properties of immiscible blend systems. Chapters cover micro and nanofibrillar composites based on polyolefin, liquid crystal polymer, biodegradable polymers, polyester and polyamide blends in various industrial application fields. The book brings together panels of highly-accomplished experts in the field of plastics recycling, blends and composites systems. For several decades, plastic technology has played an important role in many industrial applications, such as packaging, automobiles, aerospace and construction. However the increasing use of plastics creates a lot of waste. This has led to restrictions on the use of some plastics for certain applications and a drive towards recycling of plastics. More recently, microfibrillar in-situ composites have been prepared from waste plastics such as PET/PP, PET/PE and Nylon/PP as a way of formulating new high performance polymer systems. This book tackles these issues and more, and is an ideal resource for anyone interested in polymer blends.

Polymer matrix composites are finding increasing number of applications due to their high weight-saving potential as well as unique characteristics, such as high strength-to-density ratio, fatigue resistance, high damping factor, and freedom from corrosion. While many textbooks are available on the mechanics of polymer matrix composites, few cover their processing.Processing of Polymer Matrix Composites fills this gap. The book focuses on the major manufacturing processes used for polymer matrix composites and describes process details, process parameters and their effects on properties and process-induced defects, and analytical and experimental methods used for understanding process conditions. The book describes fibers, thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers, and interface characteristics that are important from the standpoint of both design and processing. It also emphasizes the applications of process fundamentals for both continuous fiber and short fiber polymer matrix composites. In addition the book considers quality inspection methods, tooling, and manufacturing costs and environmental and safety issues.

Almost all synthetic materials over time induce some level of inflammation and fibrosis. Therefore, even though the successes of biomaterials science in producing acceptable solutions to the problem of biocompatibility have been remarkable, there remains enormous opportunity for improvement. The goal is the development of intelligent materials that replicate and mimic the ability of tissues and biological materials to adapt and renew. This book describes the synthesis and the analysis of new smart polymeric materials and their practical implications in nanomedicine and biotechnology. It offers a comprehensive overview, gathering recent and innovative research on multiple aspects within the field of smart polymeric materials that offer new perspectives in developing current advanced biotechnologies. The text contains both experimental and theoretical issues that reflect the impact of the materials characteristics in target applications. It deals with recent advances in the design of new polymeric materials for advanced applications but also on the study of their structure-properties relationship in order to move from completely inert, static structures to flexible ones capable to respond to environmental changes.

In this important volume, the structures and functions of these advanced polymer and composite systems are evaluated with respect to improved or novel performance, and the potential implications of those developments for the future of polymer-based composites and multifunctional materials are discussed. It focuses exclusively on the latest research related to polymer and composite materials, especially new trends in frontal polymerization and copolymerization synthesis, functionalization of polymers, physical properties, and hybrid systems. Several chapters are devoted to composites and nanocomposites.

Biodegradable and Biocompatible Polymer Composites: Processing, Properties and Applications begins by discussing the current state-of-the-art, new challenges and opportunities for various biodegradable and biocompatible polymer composite systems. Interfacial characterization of composites and the structure-property relationships in various composite systems are explained in detail via a theoretical model. Processing techniques for various macro and nanocomposite systems and the influence of processing parameters on properties of the composite are also reviewed in detail. The characterization of microstructure, elastic, visco-elastic, static and dynamic mechanical, thermal, rheological, optical, and electrical properties are highlighted, as are a broad range of applications. The book is a useful reference resource for both researchers and engineers working in composites materials science, biotechnology and nanotechnology, and is also useful for students attending chemistry, physics, and materials science and engineering courses.

Biopolymer Grafting: Synthesis and Properties presents the latest research and developments in fundamental of synthesis and properties of biopolymer-based graft copolymers. The book presents a broad overview of the biopolymer grafting process, along with trends in the field. It also introduces a range of grafting methods which lead to materials with enhanced properties for a range of practical applications, along with the positives and limitations of these techniques. The book bridges the knowledge gap between the scientific principles and industrial applications of polymer grafting. This book covers synthesis and characterization of graft-copolymers of plant polysaccharides, functional separation membranes from grafted biopolymers, and polysaccharides in alternative methods for insulin delivery. Recent trends and advances in this area are discussed, assisting materials scientists and researchers in mapping out the future of these new "green" materials through value addition to enhance their use.

Reactive Polymers: Fundamentals and Applications: A Concise Guide to Industrial Polymers, Third Edition introduces engineers and scientists to a range of reactive polymers and then details their applications and performance benefits. Basic principles and industrial processes are described for each class of reactive resin (thermoset), as well as additives, the curing process, applications and uses. The initial chapters are devoted to individual resin types (e.g., epoxides, cyanacrylates), followed by more general chapters on topics such as reactive extrusion and dental applications. Injection molding of reactive polymers, radiation curing, thermosetting elastomers, and reactive extrusion equipment are covered as well. The use of reactive polymers enables manufacturers to make chemical changes at a late stage in the production process, which, in turn, cause changes in performance and properties. Material selection and control of the reaction are essential to achieve optimal performance. Material new to this edition includes the most recent developments, applications and commercial products for each chemical class of thermosets, as well as sections on fabrication methods, reactive biopolymers, recycling of reactive polymers and case studies.

Biopolymer Grafting: Applications presents the latest research and developments in the practical application of these methods in industry, both to enable polymer scientists and engineers to keep up with the latest research trends, as well as to propose ideas for further research and application. Research into bio-based polymers has become increasingly prevalent. However, due to challenges related to the properties of these materials compared to synthetic polymers-such as their resistance to chemicals or weather-uptake has not dramatically increased yet. As a result, improvements in surface modification of bio-polymers through graft copolymerization are enormously important, because they will widen the scope of their applications. Relevant industries for application of these methods include automotive, construction, food, packaging, agriculture, textiles and paper. This book provides an overview of the developments made in the area of biopolymer-based graft polymers. Advantages, disadvantages and suggestions for future works are discussed, assisting materials scientists and researchers in mapping out the future of these new "green" materials through value addition to enhance their use.

With growing concern for the environment and the rising price of crude oil, there is increasing demand for non-petroleum-based polymers from renewable resources. Recognizing emerging developments in biopolymer systems research, this book brings together a number of key biopolymer and bioplastic topics in one place. The book highlights the importance and impact of eco-friendly green biopolymers and bioplastics, both environmentally and economically. It provides important insight into the diversity of polymers obtained directly from, or derived from, renewable resources. This volume, Applied Biopolymer Technology and Bioplastics: Sustainable Development by Green Engineering Materials, will be valuable for a broad audience of engineers and scientists, especially those designing with biopolymers and biodegradable plastics, or evaluating the options for switching from traditional plastics to biopolymers. The content of this book will prove useful for students, researchers, and professionals working in the field of green technology.

Plastics and rubber materials, or polymers, are increasingly the first choice of engineers when reliable, cost-effective performance and safety are essential. The volume of polymers used in the Western economy now exceeds that of metals, which requires today's engineering students to have a thorough grounding in the properties and applications of polymeric materials. The first chapters of Engineering with Polymers explain what polymers are, how they behave, and how articles are made from them. The authors then show how the standard engineering techniques of stress analysis, structures, fluid mechanics, heat transfer and design can be adopted or adapted to cover plastics and rubber materials. The book ends with chapters detailing interactions between processing and properties, and a description of a variety of approaches to designing plastics products, from practical advice to the use or further development of theoretical principles, backed up by examples and case studies. The book is aimed at mechanical engineering students and design engineers in industry and also at materials' and chemical engineers.

Biopolymer-Based Composites: Drug Delivery and Biomedical Applications presents a comprehensive review on recent developments in biopolymer-based composites and their use in drug delivery and biomedical applications. The information contained in this book is critical for the more efficient use of composites, as detailed up-to-date information is a pre-requirement. The information provided brings cutting-edge developments to the attention of young investigators to encourage further advances in the field of bio-composite research. Currently, biopolymers are being investigated for the design of various drug delivery and biomedical devices due to their non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible nature. Mostly, biopolymer-based solid orals, gels, hydrogel beads, and transdermal matrices have been designed in order to control drug/protein release in simulated bio-fluids.

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.

The field of organic electronics promises exciting new technologies based on inexpensive and mechanically flexible electronic devices, and is now seeing the beginning of commercial success. On the sidelines of this increasingly well-established field are several emerging technologies with innovative mechanisms and functions that utilize the mixed ionic/electronic conducting character of conjugated organic materials. Iontronics: Ionic Carriers in Organic Electronic Materials and Devices explores the potential of these materials, which can endow electronic devices with unique functionalities. Fundamental science and applications With contributions from a community of experts, the book focuses on the use of ionic functions to define the principle of operation in polymer devices. It begins by reviewing the scientific understanding and important scientific discoveries in the electrochemistry of conjugated polymers. It examines the known effects of ion incorporation, including the theory and modulation of electrochemistry in polymer films, and it explores the coupling of electronic and ionic transport in polymer films. The authors also describe applications that use this technology, including polymer electrochromic devices, artificial muscles, light-emitting electrochemical cells, and biosensors, and they discuss the fundamental technological hurdles in these areas. The changes in materials properties and device characteristics due to ionic conductivity and electrochemical doping in electrically conductive organic materials, as well as the importance of these processes in a number of different and exciting technologies, point to a large untapped potential in the development of new applications and novel device architecture. This volume captures the state of the science in this burgeoning field.

Materials Selection for Natural Fiber Composites covers the use of various tools and techniques that can be applied for natural fiber composite selection to expand the sustainable design possibilities and support cleaner production requirements. These techniques include the analytical hierarchy process, knowledge-based system, Java based materials selection system, artificial neural network, Pugh selection method, and the digital logic technique. Information on related topics, such as materials selection and design, natural fiber composites, and materials selection for composites are discussed to provide background information to the main topic. Current developments in selecting the natural fiber composite material system, including the natural fiber composites and their constituents (fibers and polymers) is the main core of the book, with in detailed sections on various technical, environmental and economic issues to enhance both environmental indices and the industrial sustainability theme. Recent developments on the analytical hierarchy process in natural fiber composite materials selection, materials selection for natural fiber composites, and knowledge based system for natural fiber composite materials selection are also discussed.

With their broad range of properties, polymer blends are widely used in adhesion, colloidal stability, the design of composite and biocompatible materials, and other areas. As the science and technology of polymer blends advances, an increasing number of polymer blend systems and applications continue to be developed. Functional Polymer Blends: Synthesis, Properties, and Performance presents the latest synthesis and characterization methodologies for generating polymer blend systems. This one-stop resource brings together both experimental and theoretical material, much of which has previously only been available in research papers. Featuring contributions by eminent international experts, the book: Reviews polymer blend systems Details miscibility enhancements in polymer blends through multiple hydrogen binding interactions Presents the component dynamics in polymer blend systems Discusses concepts of shape memory polymer blends Considers ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA) copolymer toughened polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) blends Provides theoretical insights through molecular dynamics simulation studies for binary blend miscibility Reports on the conformation and topology of cyclic linear polymer blends (CLBs) Addresses strain hardening in polymer blends with fibril morphology Explores the modification of polymer blends by irradiation techniques Examines the directed assembly of polymer blends using nanopatterned chemical surfaces Combining background and advanced information on technologies, methods, and applications, this practical reference is a must-have for researchers and industry professionals as well as students in materials science, chemistry, and chemical and surface engineering.

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are some of the most important and valuable engineering materials developed in the last 25 years. These fascinating materials demonstrate remarkably versatile properties-including capacity for actuation and stimulus responsiveness-that are enabling technologists to develop applications used to explore everything from the outer reaches of space to the inside of the human body. Polyurethane Shape Memory Polymers details the fundamentals of SMP makeup, as well as their shape-recovery features and their seemingly endless potential for use in applications ranging from the macro- to submicron scales. With an abundance of illustrations and vivid pictures to explain how SMPs and their composites work and how they can be used, this book covers: History and most recent developments in SMPs Thermomechanical properties and behavior of the polymers and their composites Modification of SMPs and novel actuation mechanisms Large-scale surface pattern generation Multi-shape memory effect Fabrication techniques Characterization of composites A must-have reference for anyone working in the materials science and engineering fields, this book outlines the properties-such as light weight, low cost, and ability to handle high strain-that make the easily processed SMPs so useful in fields including aerospace, biomedicine, and textiles. It is intended to help readers understand and apply the knowledge and techniques presented to develop new innovations that will further benefit society.