There is considerable diversity in polymers extracted from natural sources and much work has been done to classify them according to their physical and chemical properties. In the second part of this book set, readers will find general information about the physicochemical properties of several naturally occurring polysaccharides followed by a section dedicated to their application in different fields of research and medicine. Key topics in this part include: • chitosan (properties modifications and applications) • microbial biopolymers • biopolymers present in Brazilian seeds • protein-plastic foams • biopolymer microencapsulation in the food industry • biomedical gels • collagen biomaterials • biopolymer electrospinning This reference is intended for students of applied chemistry and biochemistry who require information about the properties and applications of polysaccharides (such as chitosan) and other protein-based biopolymers.

The last two decades have seen a number of significant advances in the methodology for evaluating the molecular weight distributions of polydispersed macromolecular systems in solution at the molecular level. This reference presents reviews on the progress in different analytical and characterization methods of biopolymers. Readers will find useful information about combinations of complex biopolymer analysis such as chromatographic or membrane based fractionation procedures combined with multiple detectors on line (multi-angle laser light scattering or MALLS). Key topics include: • refractive index, UV-Vis absorbance and intrinsic viscosity detection systems, • advances in SEC-MALLS (size exclusion chromatography coupled to multi-angle laser light scattering) and FFF-MALLS (field flow fractionation coupled on line to MALLS), • HPSEC-A4F-MALLS, matrix-assisted laser-desorption ionization (MALDI) • electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry • nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy This reference is intended for students of applied chemistry and biochemistry who require information about biopolymer analysis and characterization.

This book presents an exhaustive review on the use of polymers for food applications. Polymer-based systems for food applications such as: films, foams, nano- and micro-encapsulated, emulsions, hydrogels, prebiotics, 3D food printing, edible polymers for the development of foods for people with special feeding regimes, sensors, among others, have been analyzed in this work.

The explores the cutting-edge technology of polymer coatings. It discusses fundamentals, fabrication strategies, characterization techniques, and allied applications in fields such as corrosion, food, pharmaceutical, biomedical systems and electronics. It also discusses a few new innovative self-healing, antimicrobial and superhydrophobic polymer coatings. Current industrial applications and possible potential activities are also discussed.

This book presents an exhaustive analysis of the trends in the development and use of natural and synthetic polymer systems aimed at sustainable agricultural production. The polymers have allowed the development of controlled and released systems of agrochemicals such as pesticides, fertilizers and phytohormones through micro and nanoencapsulated systems, which protect and stimulate the growth of crops at low costs and without damage to the environment. Hydrogel systems from natural and synthetic polymers have also had their place in the agricultural industry, since they allow to maintain the humidity conditions of the crops for their correct development in drought times. Mulch films made of polymers have also become important in the control of weeds and pests in crops, as well as the use of edible coatings applied to fruits and vegetables during post-harvest, which reduce the losses of these perishable foods. Currently, the systems indicated, as well as others, are already used on a large scale. However, research studies in this area have been limited compared to other polymer applications. This book collects useful information for researchers, students and technologies related to the polymer technology and agri-food production. In this book, world-renowned researchers have participated, including associate editors of important journals, as well as researchers working in the area of research and development (R&D) of leading agri-food industries in the manufacture of agricultural inputs.

Reactive and functional polymers are manufactured with the aim of improving the performance of unmodified polymers or providing functionality for different applications. These polymers are created mainly through chemical reactions, but there are other important modifications that can be carried out by physical alterations in order to obtain reactive and functional polymers. This volume presents a comprehensive analysis of these reactive and functional polymers. Reactive and Functional Polymers Volume One provides the principles and foundations for the design, development, manufacture and processing of reactive and functional polymers based primarily on biopolymers, polyesters and polyurenthanes. The text provides an in-depth review of updated sources on reactive resins and silicones. In this book, world-renowned researchers have participated, including Dr. Runcang Sun (Associate editor for the journal ‘Carbohydrate Polymers’). With its comprehensive scope and up-to-date coverage of issues and trends in Reactive and Functional Polymers, this is an outstanding book for students, professors, researchers and industrialists working in the field of polymers and plastic materials.

This book deepens the study and knowledge on pectins, especially in the processes of extraction, purification, and characterization, in short its many and wide applications. Among the most prominent applications are the food, pharmaceutical, and other industries. The development of pectins has a very promising future with a marked annual increase and with a wide range of sources. As written above, this book will help its readers to expand their knowledge on this biopolymer with vast application in the industry worldwide.