Wiley on Polymer Engineering and Technology

A much-needed overview of the state of the art of hyperbranched polymers. The last two decades have seen a surge of interest in hyperbranched polymers due to their ease of synthesis on a large scale and their promising applications in diverse fields, from medicine to nanotechnology. Written by leading scientists in academia and industry, this book provides for the first time a comprehensive overview of the topic, bringing together in one complete volume a wealth of information previously available only in articles scattered across the literature. Drawing on their work at the cutting edge of this dynamic area of research, the authors cover everything readers need to know about hyperbranched polymers when designing highly functional materials. Clear, thorough discussions include: • How irregular branching affects polymer properties and their potential applications • Important theoretical basics, plus a useful summary of characterization techniques • How hyperbranched polymers compare with dendrimers as well as linear polymers • Future trends in the synthesis and application of hyperbranched polymers Geared to novices and experts alike, Hyperbranched Polymers is a must-have resource for anyone working in polymer architectures, polymer engineering, and functional materials. It is also useful for scientists in related fields who need a primer on the synthesis, theory, and applications of hyperbranched polymers.

Sets forth the techniques needed to create a vast array of useful biopolymer nanocomposites Interest in biopolymer nanocomposites is soaring. Not only are they green and sustainable materials, they can also be used to develop a broad range of useful products with special properties, from therapeutics to coatings to packaging materials. With contributions from an international team of leading nanoscientists and materials researchers, this book draws together and reviews the most recent developments and techniques in biopolymer nano-composites. It describes the preparation, processing, properties, and applications of bio- polymer nanocomposites developed from chitin, starch, and cellulose, three renewable resources. Biopolymer Nanocomposites features a logical organization and approach that make it easy for readers to take full advantage of the latest science and technology in designing these materials and developing new products and applications. It begins with a chapter reviewing our current understanding of bio nanocomposites. Next, the book covers such topics as: • Morphological and thermal investigations of chitin-based nanocomposites • Applications of starch nanoparticle and starch-based bio nanocomposites • Spectroscopic characterization of renewable nanoparticles and their composites • Nanocellulosic products and their applications • Protein-based nanocomposites for food packaging Throughout the book, detailed case studies of industrial applications underscore the unique challenges and opportunities in developing and working with biopolymer nanocomposites. There are also plenty of figures to help readers fully grasp key concepts and techniques. Exploring the full range of applications, Biopolymer Nanocomposites is recommended for researchers in a broad range of industries and disciplines, including biomedical engineering, materials science, physical chemistry, chemical engineering, and polymer science. All readers will learn how to create green, sustainable products and applications using these tremendously versatile materials.

This book presents the most important aspects of microcellular injection molding with applications for science and industry. The book includes: experimental rheology and pressure-volume-temperature (PVT) data for different gas materials at real injection molding conditions, new mathematical models, micrographs of rheological and thermodynamic phenomena, and the morphologies of microcellular foam made by injection molding. Further, the author proposes two stages of processing for microcellular injection molding, along with a methodology of systematic analysis for process optimization. This gives critical guidelines for quality and quantity analyses for processing and equipment design.

Focusing on a variety of coatings, this book provides detailed discussion on preparation, novel techniques, recent developments, and design theories to present the advantages of each function and provide the tools for better product performance and properties. • Presents advantages and benefits of properties and applications of the novel coating types • Includes chapters on specific and novel coatings, like nanocomposite, surface wettability tunable, stimuli-responsive, anti-fouling, antibacterial, self-healing, and structural coloring • Provides detailed discussion on recent developments in the field as well as current and future perspectives • Acts as a guide for polymer and materials researchers in optimizing polymer coating properties and increasing product performance.

The second edition of a key reference, fully updated to reflect new research and applications. Poly(lactic acid)s—PLAs, biodegradable polymers derived from lactic acid, have become vital components of a sustainable society. Eco-friendly PLA polymers are used in numerous industrial applications ranging from packaging to medical implants and to wastewater treatment. The global PLA market is predicted to expand significantly over the next decade due to increasing demand for compostable and recyclable materials produced from renewable resources. “Poly(lactic acid) Synthesis, Structures, Properties, Processing, Applications, and End of Life” provides comprehensive coverage of the basic chemistry, production, and industrial use of PLA. Contributions from an international panel of experts review specific processing methods, characterization techniques, and various applications in medicine, textiles, packaging, and environmental engineering. Now in its second edition, this fully up-to-date volume features new and revised chapters on 3D printing, the mechanical and chemical recycling of PLA, PLA stereocomplex crystals, PLA composites, the environmental footprint of PLA, and more. • Highlights the biodegradability, recycling, and sustainability benefits of PLA • Describes processing and conversion technologies for PLA, such as injection molding, extrusion, blending, and thermoforming • Covers various aspects of lactic acid/lactide monomers, including physicochemical properties and production • Examines different condensation reactions and modification strategies for enhanced polymerization of PLA • Discusses the thermal, rheological, and mechanical properties of PLA • Addresses degradation and environmental issues of PLA, including photodegradation, radiolysis, hydrolytic degradation, biodegradation, and life cycle assessment “Poly(lactic acid) Synthesis, Structures, Properties, Processing, Applications, and End of Life”, Second Edition remains essential reading for polymer engineers, materials scientists, polymer chemists, chemical engineers, industry professionals using PLA, and scientists and advanced student engineers interested in biodegradable plastics.

This book, cohesively written by an expert author with supreme breadth and depth of perspective on polyurethanes, provides a comprehensive overview of all aspects of the science and technology on one of the most commonly produced plastics. • Covers the applications, manufacture, and markets for polyurethanes, and discusses analytical methods, reaction mechanisms, morphology, and synthetic routes • Provides an up-to-date view of the current markets and trend analysis based on patent activity and updates chapters to include new research • Includes two new chapters on PU recycling and PU hybrids, covering the opportunities and challenges in both

Including chemical, synthetic, and cross-disciplinary approaches; this book includes the necessary techniques and technologies to help readers better understand polymers for polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells. The methods in the book are essential to researchers and scientists in the field and will lead to further development in polymer and fuel cell technologies. • Provides complete, essential, and comprehensive overview of polymer applications for PEM fuel cells • Emphasizes state-of-the-art developments and methods, like PEMs for novel fuel cells and polymers for fuel cell catalysts • Includes detailed chapters on major topics, like PEM for direct liquid fuel cells and fluoropolymers and non-fluorinated polymers for PEM • Has relevance to a range of industries—like polymer engineering, materials, and green technology—involved with fuel cell technologies and R&D