The progress in polymer science is revealed in the chapters of Polymer Science: A Comprehensive Reference, Ten Volume Set. In Volume 1, this is reflected in the improved understanding of the properties of polymers in solution, in bulk and in confined situations such as in thin films. Volume 2 addresses new characterization techniques, such as high resolution optical microscopy, scanning probe microscopy and other procedures for surface and interface characterization. Volume 3 presents the great progress achieved in precise synthetic polymerization techniques for vinyl monomers to control macromolecular architecture: the development of metallocene and post-metallocene catalysis for olefin polymerization, new ionic polymerization procedures, and atom transfer radical polymerization, nitroxide mediated polymerization, and reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer systems as the most often used controlled/living radical polymerization methods. Volume 4 is devoted to kinetics, mechanisms and applications of ring opening polymerization of heterocyclic monomers and cycloolefins (ROMP), as well as to various less common polymerization techniques. Polycondensation and non-chain polymerizations, including dendrimer synthesis and various "click" procedures, are covered in Volume 5. Volume 6 focuses on several aspects of controlled macromolecular architectures and soft nano-objects including hybrids and bioconjugates. Many of the achievements would have not been possible without new characterization techniques like AFM that allowed direct imaging of single molecules and nano-objects with a precision available only recently. An entirely new aspect in polymer science is based on the combination of bottom-up methods such as polymer synthesis and molecularly programmed self-assembly with top-down structuring such as lithography and surface templating, as presented in Volume 7. It encompasses polymer and nanoparticle assembly in bulk and under confined conditions or influenced by an external field, including thin films, inorganic-organic hybrids, or nanofibers. Volume 8 expands these concepts focusing on applications in advanced technologies, e.g. in electronic industry and centers on combination with top down approach and functional properties like conductivity. Another type of functionality that is of rapidly increasing importance in polymer science is introduced in volume 9. It deals with various aspects of polymers in biology and medicine, including the response of living cells and tissue to the contact with biofunctional particles and surfaces. The last volume is devoted to the scope and potential provided by environmentally benign and green polymers, as well as energy-related polymers. They discuss new technologies needed for a sustainable economy in our world of limited resources. Provides broad and in-depth coverage of all aspects of polymer science from synthesis/polymerization, properties, and characterization methods and techniques to nanostructures, sustainability and energy, and biomedical uses of polymers Provides a definitive source for those entering or researching in this area by integrating the multidisciplinary aspects of the science into one unique, up-to-date reference work Electronic version has complete cross-referencing and multi-media components Volume editors are world experts in their field (including a Nobel Prize winner)

The 3rd edition of this important dictionary offers more than 12,000 entries with expanded encyclopaedic-style definitions making this major reference work invaluable to practitioners, researchers and students working in the area of polymer science and technology. This new edition now includes entries on computer simulation and modeling, surface and interfacial properties and their characterization, functional and smart polymers. New and controlled architectures of polymers, especially dendrimers and controlled radical polymerization are also covered.

The new edition of a classic text and reference The large chains of molecules known as polymers are currently used in everything from "wash and wear" clothing to rubber tires to protective enamels and paints. Yet the practical applications of polymers are only increasing; innovations in polymer chemistry constantly bring both improved and entirely new uses for polymers onto the technological playing field. Principles of Polymerization, Fourth Edition presents the classic text on polymer synthesis, fully updated to reflect today's state of the art. New and expanded coverage in the Fourth Edition includes: * Metallocene and post-metallocene polymerization catalysts * Living polymerizations (radical, cationic, anionic) * Dendrimer, hyperbranched, brush, and other polymer architectures and assemblies * Graft and block copolymers * High-temperature polymers * Inorganic and organometallic polymers * Conducting polymers * Ring-opening polymer ization * In vivo and in vitro polymerization Appropriate for both novice and advanced students as well as professionals, this comprehensive yet accessible resource enables the reader to achieve an advanced, up-to-date understanding of polymer synthesis. Different methods of polymerization, reaction parameters for synthesis, molecular weight, branching and crosslinking, and the chemical and physical structure of polymers all receive ample coverage. A thorough discussion at the elementary level prefaces each topic, with a more advanced treatment following. Yet the language throughout remains straightforward and geared towards the student. Extensively updated, Principles of Polymerization, Fourth Edition provides an excellent textbook for today's students of polymer chemistry, chemical engineering, and materials science, as well as a current reference for the researcher or other practitioner working in these areas.

This text describes how plastics, rubber, and fibers are synthesized, processed into useful materials, characterized, and compounded with fillers and other additives to improve performance for specific applications. Their use in a wide variety of technologies including membrane separations, electronics, and energy production and storage is described. A new chapter in the Third Edition shows how computer correlations and simulations can be used to predict properties of new plastics and to better understand how existing plastics perform.