This book presents both established and emerging technologies which show the immense possibilities of using non-traditional fillers and stiffening agents in the plastics industry. After an introduction to basic polymer chemistry, a range of non-petroleum-based fillers and stiffening agents for polymer products are identified and their optimal applications given.

Polymeric composites with rice hulls have superior properties compared with other polymer composites and are suitable for a wider range of applications. This book explains what it is that makes polymeric composites with rice hulls ideal substitutes for natural wood and how they may help ease global environmental concerns. It is an ideal source of information for researchers, resin-pellet manufacturers, processors and end users.

Polymers are converted into finished products through a series of steps which include mixing in additives and various types of forming. Following an introduction to polymer science and its importance to various fields, the author describes these processes from a practical, application-oriented perspective. Global suppliers of raw materials, machinery and equipment are also given, making this book an invaluable resource for industry practitioners.

Drawing on over 45 years of hands-on experience, the author provides in-depth knowledge of water-blown cellular polymers, from their chemistry to formulation and process methodology. This book describes the manufacture of standard and specialty foams using new and emerging technologies. The author gives advice on the challenges foam producers commonly face with regard to formulations and makes recommendations for machinery and equipment.

The manufacture of artifi cial leather using polymeric systems is a vital component as an essential commodity for consumer, industrial and automobile applications. Both practical and exciting possibilities to the standard traditional coatings with PVC and polyurethanes with newer coatings of silicone and graphene induced coatings, and economical biomass materials as non-traditional fi llers, stiffening and softening agents are discussed.

Flexible and viscoelastic polyurethane foams have enormous potential as viable business ventures and have replaced many traditional materials used in everyday life. This book describes the chemistry of flexible and viscoelastic polyurethane foams as well as calculations and formulating methodology for quality production. The author presents detailed information on foam manufacturing, based on over 45 years of hands-on industry experience.

Thanks to their unique physico-chemical nature, two-component polyurethane (PU) systems have found widespread industrial application. This book gives practical guidance on the selection of raw materials and machinery, as well as the calculations and formulations necessary for the successful production and processing of two-component PUs. Readers will benefit from the troubleshooting advice based on the author's extensive industry experience.