Thoroughly updated, Introduction to Polymers, Third Edition presents the science underpinning the synthesis, characterization and properties of polymers. The material has been completely reorganized and expanded to include important new topics and provide a coherent platform for teaching and learning the fundamental aspects of contemporary polymer science.

New to the Third Edition

Part I

This first part covers newer developments in polymer synthesis, including ‘living’ radical polymerization, catalytic chain transfer and free-radical ring-opening polymerization, along with strategies for the synthesis of conducting polymers, dendrimers, hyperbranched polymers and block copolymers. Polymerization mechanisms have been made more explicit by showing electron movements.

Part II

In this part, the authors have added new topics on diffusion, solution behaviour of polyelectrolytes and field-flow fractionation methods. They also greatly expand coverage of spectroscopy, including UV visible, Raman, infrared, NMR and mass spectroscopy. In addition, the Flory–Huggins theory for polymer solutions and their phase separation is treated more rigorously.

Part III

A completely new, major topic in this section is multicomponent polymer systems. The book also incorporates new material on macromolecular dynamics and reptation, liquid crystalline polymers and thermal analysis. Many of the diagrams and micrographs have been updated to more clearly highlight features of polymer morphology.

Part IV

The last part of the book contains major new sections on polymer composites, such as nanocomposites, and electrical properties of polymers. Other new topics include effects of chain entanglements, swelling of elastomers, polymer fibres, impact behaviour and ductile fracture. Coverage of rubber-toughening of brittle plastics has also been revised and expanded.

While this edition adds many new concepts, the philosophy of the book remains unchanged. Largely self-contained, the text fully derives most equations and cross-references topics between chapters where appropriate. Each chapter not only includes a list of further reading to help readers expand their knowledge of the subject but also provides problem sets to test understanding, particularly of numerical aspects.

Table of Contents

CONCEPTS, NOMENCLATURE AND SYNTHESIS OF POLYMERS

Concepts and Nomenclature

The Origins of Polymer Science and the Polymer Industry

Basic Definitions and Nomenclature

Molar Mass and Degree of Polymerization

Principles of Polymerization

Introduction

Classification of Polymerization Reactions

Monomer Functionality and Polymer Skeletal Structure

Functional Group Reactivity and Molecular Size: The Principle of Equal Reactivity

Step Polymerization

Introduction

Linear Step Polymerization

Non-Linear Step Polymerization

Radical Polymerization

Introduction to Radical Polymerization

The Chemistry of Conventional Free-Radical Polymerization

Kinetics of Conventional Free-Radical Polymerization

Free-Radical Polymerization Processes

Reversible-Deactivation (‘Living’) Radical Polymerizations

Non-Linear Radical Polymerizations

Ionic Polymerization

Introduction to Ionic Polymerization

Cationic Polymerization

Anionic Polymerization

Group-Transfer Polymerization

Stereochemistry and Coordination Polymerization

Introduction to Stereochemistry of Polymerization

Tacticity of Polymers

Geometric Isomerism in Polymers Prepared from Conjugated Dienes

Ziegler–Natta Coordination Polymerization

Metallocene Coordination Polymerization

Ring-Opening Polymerization

Introduction to Ring-Opening Polymerization

Cationic Ring-Opening Polymerization

Anionic Ring-Opening Polymerization

Free-Radical Ring-Opening Polymerization

Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization

Specialized Methods of Polymer Synthesis

Introduction

Solid-State Topochemical Polymerization

Polymerization by Oxidative Coupling

Precursor Routes to Intractable Polymers

Supramolecular Polymerization (Polyassociation)

Copolymerization

Introduction

Step Copolymerization

Chain Copolymerization

Block Copolymer Synthesis

Graft Copolymer Synthesis

CHARACTERIZATION OF POLYMERS

Theoretical Description of Polymers in Solution

Introduction

Thermodynamics of Polymer Solutions

Chain Dimensions

Frictional Properties of Polymer Molecules in Dilute Solution

Number-Average Molar Mass

Introduction to Measurements of Number-Average Molar Mass

Membrane Osmometry

Vapour Pressure Osmometry

Ebulliometry and Cryoscopy

End-Group Analysis

Effects of Low Molar Mass Impurities upon Mn

Scattering Methods

Introduction

Static Light Scattering

Dynamic Light Scattering

Small-Angle X-Ray and Neutron Scattering

Frictional Properties of Polymers in Solution

Introduction

Dilute Solution Viscometry

Ultracentrifugation

Molar Mass Distribution

Introduction

Fractionation

Gel Permeation Chromatography

Field-Flow Fractionation

Mass Spectroscopy

Chemical Composition and Molecular Microstructure

Introduction

Principles of Spectroscopy

Ultraviolet and Visible Light Absorption Spectroscopy

Infrared Spectroscopy

Raman Spectroscopy

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

Mass Spectroscopy

PHASE STRUCTURE AND MORPHOLOGY OF BULK POLYMERS

The Amorphous State

Introduction

The Glass Transition

Factors Controlling the Tg

Macromolecular Dynamics

The Crystalline State

Introduction

Determination of Crystal Structure

Polymer Single Crystals

Semi-Crystalline Polymers

Liquid Crystalline Polymers

Defects in Crystalline Polymers

Crystallization

Melting

Multicomponent Polymer Systems

Introduction

Polymer Blends

Block Copolymers

PROPERTIES OF BULK POLYMERS

Elastic Deformation

Introduction

Elastic Deformation

Elastic Deformation of Polymers

Viscoelasticity

Introduction

Viscoelastic Mechanical Models

Boltzmann Superposition Principle

Dynamic Mechanical Testing

Frequency Dependence of Viscoelastic Behaviour

Transitions and Polymer Structure

Time–Temperature Superposition

Effect of Entanglements

Non-Linear Viscoelasticity

Elastomers

Introduction

Thermodynamics of Elastomer Deformation

Statistical Theory of Elastomer Deformation

Stress–Strain Behaviour of Elastomers

Factors Affecting Mechanical Behaviour

Yield and Crazing

Introduction

Phenomenology of Yield

Yield Criteria

Deformation Mechanisms

Crazing

Fracture and Toughening

Introduction

Fundamentals of Fracture

Mechanics of Fracture

Fracture Phenomena

Toughened Polymers

Polymer Composites

Introduction to Composite Materials

Matrix Materials

Types of Reinforcement

Composite Composition

Particulate Reinforcement

Fibre Reinforcement

Nanocomposites

Electrical Properties

Introduction to Electrical Properties

Dielectric Properties

Conduction in Polymers

Polymer Electronics

Answers to Problems

Index

Problems and Further Reading appear at the end of each chapter.

This book describes the latest research on nanopolysaccharides in the development of functional materials, from their preparation, properties and functional modifications to the architecture of diverse functional materials. Polysaccharide-based nanoparticles, including nanocellulose, nanochitin, and nanostarch have attracted interest in the field of nanoscience, nanotechnology, and materials science that encompasses various industrial sectors, such as biomedicine, catalyst, coating, energy, optical materials, environmental materials, construction materials, and antibacterial materials. This book establishes a fundamental framework, highlighting the architecture strategies of typical functional systems based on nanopolysaccharides and integrated analysis of their significant influence and properties to various functional behaviors of materials, to help readers to fully understand the fundamental features of nanopolysaccharides and functional materials. Addressing the potential for practical applications, the book also covers the related industrial interests and reports on highly valued products from nanopolysaccharides, providing ideas for future studies in the area. Intended both for academics and professionals who are interested in nanopolysaccharides, it is also a valuable resource for postgraduate students, researchers, and engineers involved in R&D of natural polymers, nanotechnology, and functional materials.

Presents updated information in the field of biodegradable biopolymers Provides an up-to-date summary of the varying market applications of biopolymers characterized by biodegradability and sustainability Includes case studies that illustrate the sustainable development process from a materials perspective

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

Among the materials found in Nature's many diverse living organisms or produced by human industry, those made from polymers are dominant. In Nature, they are not only dominant, but they are, as well, uniquely necessary to life. Conformations: Connecting the Chemical Structures and Material Behaviors of Polymers explores how the detailed chemical structures of polymers can be characterized, how their microstructural-dependent conformational preferences can be evaluated, and how these conformational preferences can be connected to the behaviors and properties of their materials. The authors examine the connections between the microstructures of polymers and the rich variety of physical properties they evidence. Detailed polymer architectures, including the molecular bonding and geometries of backbone and side-chain groups, monomer stereo- and regiosequences, comonomer sequences, and branching, are explicitly considered in the analysis of the conformational characteristics of polymers. This valuable reference provides practicing materials engineers as well as polymer and materials science students a means of understanding the differences in behaviors and properties of materials made from chemically distinct polymers. This knowledge can assist the reader design polymers with chemical structures that lead to their desired material behaviors and properties.

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.

This book focuses on exciting new research in polymer science. The first section of the book deals with new advancements in polymer technology, which includes polymers that are responsible for progress in the field of energy, electronics, and medical sciences. It focuses on the most promising polymer nanocomposites and nanomaterials. Composites are becoming more important because they can help to improve quality of life. The second section of the book highlights this aspect of macromolecules, while the third section emphasizes biopolymers, their development, and applications.

This book details polysaccharides and other important biomacromolecules covering their source, production, structures, properties, and current and potential application in the fields of biotechnology and medicine. It includes a systematic discussion on the general strategies of isolation, separation and characterization of polysaccharides and proteins. Subsequent chapters are devoted to polysaccharides obtained from various sources, including botanical, algal, animal and microbial.

In the area of botanical polysaccharides, separate chapters are devoted to the sources, structure, properties and medical applications of cellulose and its derivatives, starch and its derivatives, pectins, and exudate gums, notably gum arabic. Another chapter discusses the potential of hemicelluloses (xylans and xylan derivatives) as a new source of functional biopolymers for biomedical and industrial applications. The algal polysaccharide, alginate, has significant application in food, pharmaceuticals and the medical field, all of which are reviewed in a separate chapter. Polysaccharides of animal origin are included with separate chapters on the sources, production, biocompatibility, biodegradability and biomedical applications of chitin (chitosan) and hyaluronan. With the increasing knowledge and applications of genetic engineering there is also an introduction in the book to nucleic acid polymers, the genome research and genetic engineering.

Proteins and protein conjugates are covered, with one chapter providing a general review of structural glycoproteins, fibronectin and laminin, together with their role in the promotion of cell adhesion in vascular grafts, implants and tissue engineering. Another chapter discusses general aspects of a number of industrial proteins, including casein, caseinates, whey protein, gluten and soy proteins, with emphasis on their medical applications, and with reference to the potential of bacterial proteins. Another natural polymer resource, microbial polyesters, although small compared with polysaccharides and proteins, is also gaining increasing interest in biomedical technology and other industrial sectors. One chapter, therefore, is devoted to microbial polyesters, with comprehensive coverage of their biosynthesis, properties, enzymic degradation and applications.

By dealing with biopolymers at the molecular level, the book is aimed at the biomedical and wider materials science communities and provides an advanced overview of biopolymers at the graduate and postgraduate level. In addition it will appeal to both academic and industrial life scientists who are involved in research and development activities in the medical and biotechnology field.

Unlike previous volumes in the series for colloid and surface scientists, revolves generally around two topics: surfactants and polymers. The six papers discuss micelles of block and graft copolymers in solutions, surfactant association in nonaqueous media, a study of the boundary viscosity of organ

In this data book, both conventional Py-GC/MS where thermal energy alone is used to cause fragmentation of given polymeric materials and reactive Py-GC/MS in the presence of organic alkaline for condensation polymers are compiled. Before going into detailed presentation of the data, however, acquiring a firm grip on the proper understanding about the situation of Py-GC/MS would promote better utilization of the following pyrolysis data for various polymers samples.

This book incorporates recent technological advances in analytical pyrolysis methods especially useful for the characterization of 163 typical synthetic polymers. The book briefly reviews the instrumentation available in advanced analytical pyrolysis, and offers guidance to perform effectually this technique combining with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Main contents are comprehensive sample pyrograms, thermograms, identification tables, and representative mass spectra (MS) of pyrolyzates for synthetic polymers. This edition also highlights thermally-assisted hydrolysis and methylation technique effectively applied to 33 basic condensation polymers.

Coverage of Py-GC/MS data of conventional pyrograms and thermograms of basic 163 kinds of synthetic polymers together with MS and retention index data for pyrolyzates, enabling a quick identification

Additional coverage of the pyrograms and their related data for 33 basic condensation polymers obtained by the thermally-assisted hydrolysis and methylation technique

All compiled data measured under the same experimental conditions for pyrolysis, gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to facilitate peak identification

Surveyable instant information on two facing pages dedicated to the whole data of a given polymer sample .

This book provides a comprehensive description of topological polymers, an emerging research area in polymer science and polymer materials engineering. The precision polymer topology designing is critical to realizing the unique polymer properties and functions leading to their eventual applications. The prominent contributors are led by Principal Editor Yasuyuki Tezuka and Co-Editor Tetsuo Deguchi. Important ongoing achievements and anticipated breakthroughs in topological polymers are presented with an emphasis on the spectacular diversification of polymer constructions. The book serves readers collectively to acquire comprehensive insights over exciting innovations ongoing in topological polymer chemistry, encompassing topological geometry analysis, classification, physical characterization by simulation and the eventual chemical syntheses, with the supplementary focus on the polymer folding, invoked with the ongoing breakthrough of the precision AI prediction of protein folding. The current revolutionary developments in synthetic approaches specifically for single cyclic (ring) polymers and the topology-directed properties/functions uncovered thereby are outlined as a showcase example. This book is especially beneficial to academic personnel in universities and to researchers working in relevant institutions and companies. Although the level of the book is advanced, it can serve as a good reference book for graduate students and postdocs as a source of valuable knowledge of cutting-edge topics and progress in polymer chemistry.

This book commemorates the "Nobel Laureate Professor Suzuki Special Symposium" at the International Union of Material Research Society-International Conference on Advanced Materials (IUMRS-ICAM2017), which was held at Kyoto University, Japan, in 2017. The book begins with a foreword by Professor Akira Suzuki. Subsequently, many authors who attended the special symposium describe the latest scientific advances in the field of carbon materials and carbon nanomaterials including polymers, carbon nanocomposites, and graphene. Carbon-based materials have recently been the focus of considerable attention, given their wide range of potential applications. Fittingly, the chapters in this book cover both experimental and theoretical approaches in several categories of carbon-related materials.

Ceramic and Specialty Electrolytes for Energy Storage Devices, Volume II, investigates recent progress and challenges in a wide range of ceramic solid and quasi-solid electrolytes and specialty electrolytes for energy storage devices. The influence of these electrolyte properties on the performance of different energy storage devices is discussed in detail. Features: * Offers a detailed outlook on the performance requirements and ion transportation mechanism in solid polymer electrolytes * Covers solid-state electrolytes based on oxides (perovskite, anti-perovskite) and sulfide-type ion conductor electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries followed by solid-state electrolytes based on NASICON and garnet-type ionic conductors * Discusses electrolytes employed for high-temperature lithium-ion batteries, low-temperature lithium-ion batteries, and magnesium-ion batteries * Describes sodium-ion batteries, transparent electrolytes for energy storage devices, non-platinum-based cathode electrocatalyst for direct methanol fuel cells, non-platinum-based anode electrocatalyst for direct methanol fuel cells, and ionic liquid-based electrolytes for supercapacitor applications * Suitable for readers with experience in batteries as well as newcomers to the field This book will be invaluable to researchers and engineers working on the development of next-generation energy storage devices, including materials and chemical engineers, as well as those involved in related disciplines.

Ten years after the debut of the expansive CRC Handbook of Thermodynamic Data of Copolymer Solutions, The CRC Handbook of Phase Equilibria and Thermodynamic Data of Copolymer Solutions updates and expands the world's first comprehensive source of this vital data. Author Christian Wohlfarth, a chemical thermodynamicist specializing in phase equilibria of polymer and copolymer solutions and a respected contributor to the CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, has gathered up-to-the-minute data from more than 500 newly published references. Fully committed to ensuring the reliability of the data, the author included only results with published or personally communicated numerical values. With volumetric, calormetric, and various phase equilibrium data on more than 450 copolymers and 130 solvents, this handbook furnishes: * 150 new vapor-liquid equilibrium datasets * 50 new tables containing classical Henry's coefficients * 250 new liquid-liquid equilibrium datasets * 350 new high-pressure fluid phase equilibrium * 70 new PVT-properties datasets * 40 new enthalpic datasets * Expanded second osmotic virial coefficients data table Carefully organized, clearly presented, and fully referenced, The Handbook of Phase Equilibria and Thermodynamic Data of Copolymer Solutions will prove a cardinal contribution to the open literature and invaluable to anyone working with copolymers.

The term biotechnology has emerged on the contemporary scene fairly recently, but the basic concept of utilizing natural materials, either directly or in modified versions, dates back to antiquity. If we search the ancient literature, such as the Bible, we find hundreds of examples wherein people employed, or modified, natural materials for a variety of important uses. As far back as the days of Noah we find pitch, a natural material, being used as a caulk. Clothing was made from animal skins and the products of several plants. Today, we would consider these things as important biotechnological developments. Likewise, the human use of polymeric materials also has a long his tory. In fact, many of the original materials used by mankind were poly mers derived from nature, such as wood, flax, cotton, wool and animal skins, which were used for shelter and clothing. In recent years, however, the concept of biotechnology has taken on a new and renewed role in our society. This is due to a combination of factors, including an increased interest in environmental concerns and the desire to break free from the stranglehold that petrochemicals have placed on our society. If we can manufacture some of our polymers from renewable resources, then we can expect to prepare them for many more years into the future than we might if we could only depend on the petro chemical resources.

The series Advances in Polymer Science presents critical reviews of the present and future trends in polymer and biopolymer science. It covers all areas of research in polymer and biopolymer science including chemistry, physical chemistry, physics, material science. The thematic volumes are addressed to scientists, whether at universities or in industry, who wish to keep abreast of the important advances in the covered topics. Advances in Polymer Science enjoys a longstanding tradition and good reputation in its community. Each volume is dedicated to a current topic, and each review critically surveys one aspect of that topic, to place it within the context of the volume. The volumes typically summarize the significant developments of the last 5 to 10 years and discuss them critically, presenting selected examples, explaining and illustrating the important principles, and bringing together many important references of primary literature. On that basis, future research directions in the area can be discussed. Advances in Polymer Science volumes thus are important references for every polymer scientist, as well as for other scientists interested in polymer science - as an introduction to a neighboring field, or as a compilation of detailed information for the specialist. Review articles for the individual volumes are invited by the volume editors. Single contributions can be specially commissioned.Readership: Polymer scientists, or scientists in related fields interested in polymer and biopolymer science, at universities or in industry, graduate students.

The unparalleled large-scale commercial application of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), otherwise known as PEDOT, continues to fuel a need for literature about it that is concise, easily available, but sufficiently comprehensive. Designed to meet the requirements of readers from different areas of expertise and experience with the substance, PEDOT: Principles and Applications of an Intrinsically Conductive Polymer provides a comprehensive overview of chemical, physical, and technical information about this preeminent and most forwardly developed electrically conductive polymer. An indispensable resource for researchers, developers, and users of PEDOT-written by the researchers who succeeded in commercializing it A necessary response to the massive interest-as well as patents and papers-spawned by PEDOT, this handbook provides basic knowledge and explores technical applications, based on information generated by universities and academic research, as well as by industrial scientists. Available in various formulations and conductivities, this versatile PEDOT can be adapted for the needs and specific industrial applications of its different users. Although valuable information exists in handbooks on polythiophene chemistry and physics, under which PEDOT falls, until now, few if any books have focused exclusively on this important conducting polymer-certainly not one that so completely elucidates both its experimental and practical aspects. This book: Begins with a brief history of conducting polymers and polythiophenes Describes the invention of PEDOT and its commercial outgrowth, PEDOT:PSS Emphasizes key technical and commercial aspects and usage of PEDOT and how they have stimulated scientific research in a wide range of fields Explains the chemical and physical background for PEDOT in terms of its primary use and incorporation in products including cellular phones and flat panel displays Valuable for readers at any level of familiarity with PEDOT, this one-stop compilation of information offers specialists several unpublished results from the authors' celebrated work, as well as often overlooked information from patents. Balancing sufficient detail and references for further study, this book is a powerful tool for anyone working in the field.

This new work, Functional Polymeric Composites: Macro to Nanoscales, focuses on new challenges, findings, opportunities, and applications in the area of polymer composites. The chapters, written prominent researchers from academia, industry, and research institutes from around the world, present contemporary research and developments on advanced polymeric materials, including polymer blends, polymer electrolytes, bio-based polymer, polymer nanocomposites, etc. Several chapters also cover the applications of the polymeric systems in current industry development and synthesis and characterization of the products.

The Chemistry of Polymers, 5th Edition, is fully updated with the latest developments in polymer science providing a highly readable textbook for those requiring a broad overview of the subject. Like previous editions, the book continues to explore the subject from an applications point of view, providing a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of polymer science including synthesis, structure, properties, degradation and dendrimers. Recent advances in special topics in polymer chemistry and polymers and the environment are also discussed in an informative and up-to-date manner. The new edition features additional content on recent developments in new polymer synthesis techniques including reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). The book also contains new content on the latest developments in polymer characterisation methods as well as applications of polymers including co-ordination polymers and lithium-polymer batteries. The book is essential reading for university students, teachers and scientists who wish to acquire an up-to-the-minute overview of polymer science and its many specialised topics in an informative and easy to read style.

Research into plant biopolymers, their structural characteristics and related physicochemical and functional properties is of increasing significance in the modern world. This is particularly true in relation to sustainable agriculture, environmentally friendly processes and new technology requirements and safe products. This unique book reports on the very latest research on plant biopolymer science, from biosynthesis through to applications. It describes specifically developments in the study of the biosynthesis of macromolecules and biopolymer design, going on to model systems such as biopolymer assemblies, interfaces and interphases. Finally, a discussion of multiphasic systems shows how these concepts may be extended to everyday applications. With contributions drawn from the international scientific community, Plant Biopolymer Science: Food and Non-Food Applications provides an overview of the state-of-the-art for a variety of readers, which will include students, researchers and teachers in academia to professionals in industry and government agencies.

The Handbook of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) focusses on and addresses varying facets of PHA biosynthesis and processing, spread across three volumes. The first volume discusses feedstock aspects, enzymology, metabolism and genetic engineering of PHA biosynthesis. It addresses better understanding the mechanisms of PHA biosynthesis in scientific terms and profiting from this understanding in order to enhance PHA biosynthesis in bio-technological terms and in terms of PHA microstructure. It further discusses making PHA competitive for outperforming established petrol-based plastics on industrial scale and obstacles for market penetration of PHA. This second volume focusses on thermodynamic and mathematical considerations of PHA biosynthesis, bioengineering aspects regarding bioreactor design and downstream processing for PHA recovery from microbial biomass. It covers microbial mixed culture processes and includes a strong industry-focused section with chapters on the economics of PHA production, industrial-scale PHA production from sucrose, next generation industrial biotechnology approaches for PHA production based on novel robust production strains, and holistic techno-economic and sustainability considerations on PHA manufacturing. Third volume is on the production of functionalized PHA bio-polyesters, the post-synthetic modification of PHA, processing and additive manufacturing of PHA, development and properties of PHA-based (bio)composites and blends, the market potential of PHA and follow-up materials, different bulk- and niche applications of PHA, and the fate and use of spent PHA items. Divided into fourteen chapters, it describes functionalized PHA and PHA modification, processing and their application including degradation of spent PHA-based products and fate of these bio-polyesters during compositing and other disposal strategies. Aimed at professionals and graduate students in Polymer (plastic) industry, wastewater treatment plants, food industry, biodiesel industry, this set: Presents comprehensive and holistic consideration of these microbial bioplastics in the volumes. Enables reader to learn about microbiological, enzymatic, genetic, synthetic biology, and metabolic aspects of PHA biosynthesis based on the latest scientific discoveries. Discusses design and operate a PHA production plant. Strong focus on post-synthetic modification, preparation of functional PHA and follow-up products, and PHA processing. Covers all related engineering considerations

Elastomer-Based Composite Materials: Mechanical, Dynamic, and Microwave Properties and Engineering Applications is focused on elastomer-based composite materials comprising different types of reinforcing fillers. The book provides an informative examination of the possibilities for broadening the engineering applications of elastomer composites through using various types of hybrid fillers, ferrites, and ceramics, and also examines their synthesis and characterization. It discusses new hybrid fillers that have been synthesized by different techniques, e.g. impregnation of different substrates (carbon black, conductive carbon black, activated carbons, etc.) with silica or magnetite. These new fillers have been thoroughly characterized by standard techniques and by up-to-date methods, such as energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM-EDX), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), and inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The effect of those fillers upon the curing properties, mechanical and dynamic parameters, electrical conductivity, and dielectric and microwave characteristics of elastomer-based composites is discussed in detail in this volume. The book also covers the influence of various types of ceramics (SiC, B4C, and TiB2) and barium and strontium hexaferrites upon the aforementioned properties of rubber composites in conjunction with a view toward solutions for environmental problems caused by waste tires. The book shows that pyrolysis-cum-water vapor is a suitable and environmentally friendly method for the conversion of the waste green tires into useful carbon-silica hybrid fillers. The properties of elastomer-based composites comprising different types of nanostructures (fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, graphene nanoplatelets), modified activated carbons, and calcined kaolin are also discussed. Special attention is paid to composites with lower levels of zinc oxide. The volume provides an abundance of knowledge on the detailed characterization of these fillers and on the curing, mechanical, dynamic mechanical, and dielectric and microwave properties of the elastomeric composites. The book surveys the most recent research activities of the authors, which will make it a vital reference source for scientists in both the academic and industrial sectors, as well as for individuals who are interested in rubber materials. It will be very useful for students, especially PhD students, scientists, lecturers, and engineers working or doing research in the field of polymer materials science, elastomer-based composites and nanocomposites and their engineering applications in the production of microwave absorbers and electromagnetic waves shielding materials, materials for electronics devices and telecommunications.

This book presents the chemical properties of lignocellulosic fibers, knowledge of which is essential for innovation and sustainable development of their transformation. Thermochemical transformation of wood and other lignocellulosics is presented to highlight its volatile, liquid and solid products and their novel applications. Forest biorefinery is described to emphasize the new products from lignocellulosic constituents, both structural (cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignins) and those extraneous to cell walls-extractives. New developments in cellulose technology related to nanocellulose are discussed in relation to new applications. Industrial lignins are presented in detail, both in terms of extraction procedures from spent liquors and structural characterization of the isolated lignins. Application of lignocellulosic biopolymers in new composite materials, or in biomaterials for medicinal purposes, and in solid wood preservation, are described. The example of an industrial biorefinery installed in southwestern France more than 40 years ago is presented.

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.

Advances in Polymer Science enjoys a longstanding tradition and good reputation in its community. Each volume is dedicated to a current topic and each review critically surveys one aspect of that topic, to place it within the context of the volume. The volumes typically summarize the significant developments of the last 5 to 10 years and discuss them critically, presenting selected examples, explaining and illustrating the important principles and bringing together many important references of primary literature. On that basis, future research directions in the area can be discussed. Advances in Polymer Science volumes thus are important references for every polymer scientist as well as for other scientists interested in polymer science - as an introduction to a neighboring field, or as a compilation of detailed information for the specialist.