Modification of Polymer Properties provides, for the first time, in one title, the latest information on gradient IPNs and gradient copolymers. The book covers the broad range of polymer modification routes in a fresh, current view representing a timely addition to the technical literature of this important area. Historically, blends, copolymers, or filled polymers have been developed to meet specific properties, or to optimize the cost/properties relationship. Using the gradient structure approach with conventional radical polymerization, it has been shown that it is possible to optimize properties if appropriate gradients in the composition of copolymer chains are obtained. An overview of the gradient structure approach for designing polymers has not appeared in the recent literature and this title covers the different methods used to modify properties, offering the whole range of ways to modify polymers in just one volume and making this an attractive option for a wide audience of practitioners. The approach for each chapter is to explain the fundamental principles of preparation, cover properties modification, describe future research and applications as examples of materials that may be prepared for specific applications, or that are already in use, in present day applications. The book is for readers that have a basic background in polymer science, as well as those interested in the different ways to combine or modify polymer properties.

Multifunctional Polymeric Nanocomposites Based on Cellulosic Reinforcements introduces the innovative applications of polymeric materials based on nanocellulose, and covers extraction methods, functionalization approaches, and assembly methods to enable these applications. The book presents the state-of-the-art of this novel nano-filler and how it enables new applications in many different sectors, beyond existing products. With a focus on application of nano-cellulose based polymers with multifunctional activity, the book explains the methodology of nano-cellulose extraction and production and shows the potential performance benefits of these particular nanostructured polymers, for applications across different sectors, including food active packaging, energy-photovoltaics, biomedical, and filtration. The book describes how the different methodologies, functionalization, and organization at the nano-scale level could contribute to the design of required properties at macro level. The book studies the interactions between the main nano-filler with other active systems and how this interaction enables multi-functionality in the produced materials. The book is an indispensable resource for the growing number of scientists and engineers interested in the preparation and novel applications of nano-cellulose, and for industrial scientists active in formulation and fabrication of polymer products based on renewable resources.

This book highlights recent advances in silver nanoparticles, at the interface between material science, technology and bio-applications of these important metal nanostructures. In this book, interesting discussions are reported on promising new avenues of research that reveal the enormous potential of emerging approaches in nanobiotechnology. This is an interdisciplinary field that conjugates expertise coming from different backgrounds. A nanotechnological approach is now used in different aspects of our life: medicine, energy, transport, etc. For this reason, we decided to invite scientists with different backgrounds and from all over the world, to cover the various subjects connected with silver nanoparticles in terms of synthesis, applications and characterisation. Nanostructures are playing a fundamental role in the advancement of science, as a result of the continuing dramatic progress in understanding the electronic, optical, mechanical and biomedical properties of an ever-increasing variety of nanostructures.