This book presents a comprehensive study on a new class of branched polymers, known as hyperbranched polymers (HBPs). It discusses in detail the synthesis strategies for these particular classes of polymers as well as biocompatible and biodegradable HBPs, which are of increasing interest to polymer technologists due to their immense potential in biomedical applications. The book also describes the one-pot synthesis technique for HBPs, which is feasible for large-scale production, as well as HBPs’ structure-property relationship, which makes them superior to their linear counterparts. The alterable functional groups present at the terminal ends of the branches make HBPs promising candidates in the biomedical domain, and the book specifically elaborates on the suitable characteristic properties of each of the potential biological HBPs’ applications. As such, the book offers a valuable reference guide for all scientists and technologists who are interested in using these newly developed techniques to achieve faster and better treatments.

Advanced Functional Polymers for Biomedical Applications presents novel techniques for the preparation and characterization of functionalized polymers, enabling researchers, scientists and engineers to understand and utilize their enhanced functionality in a range of cutting-edge biomedical applications. - Provides systematic coverage of the major types of functional polymers, discussing their properties, preparation techniques and potential applications - Presents new synthetic approaches alongside the very latest polymer processing and characterization methods - Unlocks the potential of functional polymers to support ground-breaking techniques for drug and gene delivery, diagnostics, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine

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.

A much-needed overview of the state of the art of hyperbranched polymers The last two decades have seen a surge of interest in hyperbranched polymers due to their ease of synthesis on a large scale and their promising applications in diverse fields, from medicine to nanotechnology. Written by leading scientists in academia and industry, this book provides for the first time a comprehensive overview of the topic, bringing together in one complete volume a wealth of information previously available only in articles scattered across the literature. Drawing on their work at the cutting edge of this dynamic area of research, the authors cover everything readers need to know about hyperbranched polymers when designing highly functional materials. Clear, thorough discussions include: How irregular branching affects polymer properties and their potential applications Important theoretical basics, plus a useful summary of characterization techniques How hyperbranched polymers compare with dendrimers as well as linear polymers Future trends in the synthesis and application of hyperbranched polymers Geared to novices and experts alike, Hyperbranched Polymers is a must-have resource for anyone working in polymer architectures, polymer engineering, and functional materials. It is also useful for scientists in related fields who need a primer on the synthesis, theory, and applications of hyperbranched polymers.

Research on applications of polymers for biomedical applications has increased dramatically to find improved medical plastics for this rapidly evolving field. This book brings together various aspects of recent research and developments within academia and industry related to polymers for biomedical applications.

Functionalized polymers are macromolecules to which chemically bound functional groups are attached which can be used as catalysts, reagents, protective groups, etc. Functionalized polymers have low cost, ease of processing and attractive features for functional organic molecules. Chemical reactions for the introduction of functional groups in polymers and the conversion of functional groups in polymers depend on different properties. Such properties are of great importance for functionalization reactions for possible applications of reactive polymers. This book deals with the synthesis and design of various functional polymers, the modification of preformed polymer backbones and their various applications.

With the need to combat emerging infectious diseases, research around antimicrobial biomaterials and their applications is booming. This book provides the field with a much-needed fundamental overview of the science, addressing the chemistry of a broad range of biomaterial types, and their applications in the biomedical industry. Materials covered include polymers, from those with inherent antimicrobial activity to those that release antimicrobial agents, antimicrobial ceramics and inorganic compounds, such as metal based antimicrobial additives, and the developing field of biomimetic materials, are discussed. Surfaces, coatings and adhesives are covered, whilst the applications of these antimicrobial materials in biomedical applications, from catheters to orthopaedics, dentistry to ophthalmology, are explored. Edited by international leaders and with contributions from the best in the field, this book is the go-to resource for graduates and researchers in biomaterials science, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, and materials and polymer chemistry.