Unlike some other reproductions of classic texts (1) We have not used OCR(Optical Character Recognition), as this leads to bad quality books with introduced typos. (2) In books where there are images such as portraits, maps, sketches etc We have endeavoured to keep the quality of these images, so they represent accurately the original artefact. Although occasionally there may be certain imperfections with these old texts, we feel they deserve to be made available for future generations to enjoy.

Polymer composites are often submitted to severe humid environmental conditions during their service life. Moisture absorption by the polymer matrix induces various multiphysics effects that can significantly impair the functions and durability of the mechanical parts: weight gain, plasticization (reversible loss of mechanical properties, i.e. stiffness and ultimate strength), hygroscopic strains (volume change) and, eventually, damage. Most of these phenomena induced by the internal distribution of water also affect the moisture absorption process. This book is focused on the multi-scale coupled effects occurring during moisture absorption by polymer composites.

This is a reproduction of a book published before 1923. This book may have occasional imperfections such as missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. that were either part of the original artifact, or were introduced by the scanning process. We believe this work is culturally important, and despite the imperfections, have elected to bring it back into print as part of our continuing commitment to the preservation of printed works worldwide. We appreciate your understanding of the imperfections in the preservation process, and hope you enjoy this valuable book.