Bio-Based Epoxy Polymers, Blends, and Composites

The book focusses on the recent technical research accomplishments in the area of polyethylene-based blends, composites and nanocomposites by looking at the various aspects of processing, morphology, properties and applications. In particular, the book details the important developments in areas such as the structure-properties relationship of polyethylene; modification of polyethylene with radiation and ion implantation processes; stabilization of irradiated polyethylene by the introduction of antioxidants; reinforcement of polyethylene through carbon-based materials as additives; characterization of carbon-based polyethylenes composites, polyethylene-based blends with thermoplastic and thermoset; characterization of polyethylene-based thermoplastic and thermoset blends; polyethylene-based blends with natural rubber and synthetic rubber; characterization of polyethylene-based natural rubber and synthetic rubber blends; characterization of polyethylene-based composites.

This book discusses soy protein nanoparticle-based polymer blends, composites and nanoconposites aling with their chemistry, processing, preparation, characterization, applications as well as the soy protein-based materials rheology. After discussing the preparation of soy protein nanoparticles, the characterization methods such as atomic force microscope (AFM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), for the nanoscale soy protein reinforcements are examined. The various processing methods for nanocomposites and their mechanical, thermal properties, barrier properties are then discussed. The book then moves on to discussing the different types of blends, composites and nanocomposites with their type of polymer matrixes such as thermoplastics, thermoset, natural rubbers and synthetic rubbers.

Because it is critically important to manufacture quality products, a reasonable balance must be drawn between control requirements and parameters for improved processing method with respect to plastics additives. An important contribution to the commercial polymer industry, Polymer Blends and Composites is one of the first books to combine plastics additives, testing, and quality control. The book is a comprehensive treatise on properties that provides detailed guidelines for selecting and using blends and composites for applications. A valuable resource for operators, processors, engineers, chemists, the book serves to stimulate those already active in natural polymer composites.

A state-of-art guide on the interdisciplinary aspects of design, chemistry, and physical properties of bio-inspired self-healing polymers Inspired by the natural self-healing properties that exist in living organisms—for example, the regenerative ability of humans to heal from cuts and broken bones—interest in self-healing materials is gaining more and more attention. Addressing the broad advances being made in this emerging science, Self-Healing Polymers and Polymer Composites incorporates fundamentals, theory, design, fabrication, characterization, and application of self-healing polymers and polymer composites to describe how to prepare self-healing polymeric materials, how to increase the speed of crack repair below room temperature, and how to broaden the spectrum of healing agent species. Some of the information readers will discover in this book include: Focus on engineering aspects and theoretical backgrounds of smart materials The systematic route for developing techniques and materials to advance the research and applications of self-healing polymers Integration of existing techniques and introduction of novel synthetic approaches and target-oriented materials design and fabrication Techniques for characterizing the healing process of polymers and applications of self-healing polymers and polymer composites Practical aspects of self-healing technology in various industrial fields, such as electronics, automotive, construction, chemical production, and engineering With this book, readers will have a comprehensive understanding of this emerging field, while new researchers will understand the framework necessary for innovating new self-healing solutions.

Biodegradable Polymer Blends and Composites from Renewable Resources provides a comprehensive, current overview of biopolymeric blends and composites and their applications in various industries. The book is organized according to the type of blend or composite. For each topic, the relationship between the structure of the blends/composites and their respective properties is explored, with particular focus on interface, compatibility, mechanical, and thermal properties. Real-life applications and potential markets are discussed. This is a premier reference for graduate students and researchers in polymer science, chemical and bio engineering, and materials science.

Aimed at researchers involved in this emerging field in both academia and industry, this book is unique in its focus on cellulose nanofibers, especially nano-composites, nanomoities and other plant based-resins and their composites. Despite its concise presentation, this handbook and ready reference provides a complete overview, containing such important topics as electrospinning, isolation, characterization and deposition of metallic nanoparticles.

Explore the cutting-edge in self-healing polymers and composites In Extrinsic and Intrinsic Approaches to Self-Healing Polymers and Polymer Composites, a pair of distinguished materials scientists delivers an insightful and up-to-date exploration of the fundamentals, theory, design, fabrication, characterization, and application of self-healing polymers and polymer composites. The book discusses how to prepare self-healing polymeric materials, how to increase the speed of crack repair, high temperature applications, and how to broaden the spectrum of healing agent species. The authors emphasize the integration of existing techniques with novel synthetic approaches for target-oriented materials design and fabrication. They provide a comprehensive view of this emerging field, allowing new researchers to gather a firm understanding of the framework for creating new materials or applications. Additionally, the book includes: A thorough introduction to the field of self-healing polymers and polymer composites, including the advances made by various laboratories and the challenges, trends, and future directions that characterize modern research in the area Comprehensive explorations of the self-healing strategies proposed by the authors, including addition polymerization, systems-based microcapsules and plastic tubes, and more Practical discussions of the application of reversible S-S bonds in self-healing polymers In-depth examinations of intrinsic self-healing via reversible C-ON bonds Perfect for polymer and materials scientists, chemists, and engineers, Extrinsic and Intrinsic Approaches to Self-Healing Polymers and Polymer Composites will also earn a place in the libraries of professionals working in the polymer, coatings, paints, medical, defense, and pharmaceutical industries.

Epoxy resins are polymers which are extensively used as coating materials due to their outstanding mechanical properties and good handling characteristics. A disadvantage results from their high cross-link density: they are brittle and have very low resistance to crack growth and propagation. This necessitates the toughening of the epoxy matrix without impairing its good thermomechanical properties. The final properties of the polymer depend on their structure. The book focuses on the microstructural aspects in the modification of epoxy resins with low molecular weight liquid rubbers, one of the prime toughening agents commonly employed. The book follows thoroughly the reactions of elastomer-modified epoxy resins from their liquid stage to the network formation. It gives an in-depth view into the cure reaction, phase separation and the simultaneous development of the morphology. Chapters on ageing, failure analysis and life cycle analysis round out the book.

Since their discovery in 1977, the evolution of conducting polymers has revolutionized modern science and technology. These polymers enjoy a special status in the area of materials science yet they are not as popular among young readers or common people when compared to other materials like metals, paper, plastics, rubber, textiles, ceramics and composites like concrete. Most importantly, much of the available literature in the form of papers, specific review articles and books is targeted either at advanced readers (scientists/technologists/engineers/senior academicians) or for those who are already familiar with the topic (doctoral/postdoctoral scholars). For a beginner or even school/college students, such compilations are bit difficult to access/digest. In fact, they need proper introduction to the topic of conducting polymers including their discovery, preparation, properties, applications and societal impact, using suitable examples and already known principles/knowledge/phenomenon. Further, active participation of readers in terms of “question & answers”, “fill-in-the-blanks”, “numerical” along with suitable answer key is necessary to maintain the interest and to initiate the “thought process”. The readers also need to know about the drawbacks and any hazards of such materials. Therefore, I believe that a comprehensive source on the science/technology of conducting polymers which maintains a link between grass root fundamentals and state-of-the-art R&D is still missing from the open literature.

The first book on this topic provides a comprehensive and well-structured overview of the fundamentals, synthesis and emerging applications of magnetoelectric polymer materials. Following an introduction to the basic aspects of polymer based magnetoelectric materials and recent developments, subsequent chapters discuss the various types as well as their synthesis and characterization. There then follows a review of the latest applications, such as memories, sensors and actuators. The book concludes with a look at future technological advances. An essential reference for entrants to the field as well as for experienced researchers.