Generating Micro- and Nanopatterns on Polymeric Materials

Presents the state of the technology, from fundamentals to new materials and applications Today's electronic devices, computers, solar cells, printing, imaging, copying, and recording technology, to name a few, all owe a debt to our growing understanding of the photophysics and photochemistry of polymeric materials. This book draws together, analyzes, and presents our current understanding of polymer photochemistry and photophysics. In addition to exploring materials, mechanisms, processes, and properties, the handbook also highlights the latest applications in the field and points to new developments on the horizon. Photochemistry and Photophysics of Polymer Materials is divided into seventeen chapters, including: Optical and luminescent properties and applications of metal complex-based polymers Photoinitiators for free radical polymerization reactions Photovoltaic polymer materials Photoimaging and lithographic processes in polymers Photostabilization of polymer materials Photodegradation processes in polymeric materials Each chapter, written by one or more leading experts and pioneers in the field, incorporates all the latest findings and developments as well as the authors' own personal insights and perspectives. References guide readers to the literature for further investigation of individual topics. Together, the contributions represent a series of major developments in the polymer world in which light and its energy have been put to valuable use. Not only does this reference capture our current state of knowledge, but it also provides the foundation for new research and the development of new materials and new applications.

The book comprises recent innovations and developments in various high performance applications of advanced polymeric materials. It is a compilation of work from eminent academicians and scientists and the chapters provide insight into the effect of tailoring the polymeric systems, blending matrices with nano / micro fillers for improved performance and properties. The book details the following topics: Smart & high performance coatings High barrier packaging Solar energy harvesting Power generation using polymers Polymer sensors Conducting polymers Gas transport membranes Smart drug delivery systems

With its content taken from only the very latest results, this is an extensive summary of the various polymeric materials used for biomedical applications. Following an introduction listing various functional polymers, including conductive, biocompatible and conjugated polymers, the book goes on to discuss different synthetic polymers that can be used, for example, as hydrogels, biochemical sensors, functional surfaces, and natural degradable materials. Throughout, the focus is on applications, with worked examples for training purposes as well as case studies included. The whole is rounded off with a look at future trends.

This is the first book to describe the synthesis and characterization of the materials used in polymer-supported synthesis. The authors cover not only the classical polymers and their use in homogeneous, heterogeneous and micellar catalysis, but also such new developments as «enzyme-labile linkers», illustrating how to simplify the purification process and avoid waste. The result is a wealth of useful information – for beginners and experts alike – in one handy reference, removing the need for difficult and time-consuming research among the literature.

A comprehensive and systematic treatment of our current understanding of the microfluidic technique and its advantages in the controllable fabrication of advanced functional polymeric materials. Introducing and summarizing recent advances and achievements in the field, the authors cover the design and fabrication of microfluidic devices, the fundamentals and strategies for controllable microfluidic generation of multiphase liquid systems, and the use of these liquid systems with an elaborate combination of their structures and compositions for generating novel polymer materials, such as microcapsules, microfibers, valves, and membranes. Clear diagrams and illustrations throughout the text make the relevant theory and technologies more readily accessible. The result is a specialist reference for materials scientists, organic, polymer and physical chemists, and chemical engineers.

Bridging the gap between basic science and technological applications, this is the first book devoted to polymers for solar thermal applications. Clearly divided into three major parts, the contributions are written by experts on solar thermal applications and polymer scientists alike. The first part explains the fundamentals of solar thermal energy especially for representatives of the plastics industry and researchers. Part two then goes on to provide introductory information on polymeric materials and processing for solar thermal experts. The third part combines both of these fields, discussing the potential of polymeric materials in solar thermal applications, as well as demands on durability, design and building integration. With its emphasis on applications, this monograph is relevant for researchers at universities and developers in commercial companies.

The Handbook of Composites From Renewable Materials comprises a set of 8 individual volumes that brings an interdisciplinary perspective to accomplish a more detailed understanding of the interplay between the synthesis, structure, characterization, processing, applications and performance of these advanced materials. The handbook covers a multitude of natural polymers/ reinforcement/ fillers and biodegradable materials. Together, the 8 volumes total at least 5000 pages and offers a unique publication. This 6th volume Handbook is solely focused on Polymeric Composites. Some of the important topics include but not limited to: Keratin as renewable material for developing polymer composites; natural and synthetic matrices; hydrogels in tissue engineering; smart hydrogels: application in bioethanol production; principle renewable biopolymers; application of hydrogel biocomposites for multiple drug delivery; nontoxic holographic materials; bioplasticizer – epoxidized vegetable oils-based poly (lactic acid) blends and nanocomposites; preparation, characterization and adsorption properties of poly (DMAEA) – cross-linked starch gel copolymer in waste water treatments; study of chitosan crosslinking hydrogels for absorption of antifungal drugs using molecular modelling; pharmaceutical delivery systems composed of chitosan; eco-friendly polymers for food packaging; influence of surface modification on the thermal stability and percentage of crystallinity of natural abaca fiber; influence of the use of natural fibers in composite materials assessed on a life cycle perspective; plant polysaccharides-blended ionotropically-gelled alginate multiple-unit systems for sustained drug release; vegetable oil based polymer composites; applications of chitosan derivatives in wastewater treatment; novel lignin-based materials as a products for various applications; biopolymers from renewable resources and thermoplastic starch matrix as polymer units of multi-component polymer systems for advanced applications; chitosan composites: preparation and applications in removing water pollutants and recent advancements in biopolymer composites for addressing environmental issues.

This book covers in-depth the various polymers that are used for sensors and actuators from the vantage point of organic chemistry. Since many chemists may not be familiar with the physics and operational specifics of sensors, the book has a general chapter dealing with the overall physics and basic principles of sensors. Also included are methods of fabrication, as well as information on smart textiles, actuators, and the processing of data. The range of sensors covered include humidity, temperature, chemical, mechanical, optical, electrode, electronic nose, switchable devices, biosensors, and others.