I am pleased to present the Fifth Edition of the Plastics Engineering Handbook. Last published in 1976, this version of the standard industry reference on plastics processing incorporates the numerous revisions and additions necessitated by 14 years of activity in a dynamic industry. At that last printing, then-SPI President Ralph L. Harding, Jr. anticipated that plastics pro duction would top 26 billion pounds in 1976 (up from 1.25 billion in 1947, when the First Edition of this book was issued). As I write, plastics production in the United States had reached almost 60 billion pounds annually. Indeed, the story of the U.S. plastics industry always has been one of phenomenal growth and unparalleled innovation. While these factors make compilation of a book such as this difficult, they also make it necessary. Thus I acknowledge all those who worked to gather and relate the information included in this 1991 edition and thank them for the effort it took to make the Plastics Engineering Handbook a definitive source and invaluable tool for our industry. Larry L. Thomas President The Society of the Plastics Industry, Inc.

Cellular polymers or foamed polymers are an important branch of plastics and are an essential part of daily life. Some of the major sectors of use are bedding, automotive, building construction, furniture, sound/thermal insulation, and packaging.Due to growing global concerns with regard to air pollution, research has led to the fascinating concept of using water as the sole blowing agent to create cellular foams as an alternative to traditional petroleum-based blowing agents (which contribute to air pollution). This strategy has created other possibilities of better and safer foams, and reduced costs are also considerable.With over 45 years of hands-on experience, the author provides in-depth knowledge of water-blown cellular polymers, from their chemistry to formulation and process methodology to produce quality foams. This exciting new phase of the polymer industry is presented in detail with regard to manufacture of standard foams as well as specialty foams. Such descriptions are based on new and emerging technologies, including the challenges and solutions foam producers must face with formulations as well as recommendations for machinery and equipment.This is a comprehensive presentation of all aspects of the technology required to produce water-blown cellular foams with different polymers to meet market demands. This book provides theoretical and practical information as well as guidance, and is an ideal source of information for libraries, students, teachers, foam producers and entrepreneurs.