Interfacial Phenomena in Composite Materials '91 is a collection of papers dealing with the science of composite interfaces, with emphasis on theoretical modeling, test methods, and characterization methods of polymer matrix, metal, or ceramic matrix composites. One paper reviews the micromechanical test methods used in evaluating mechanical properties of fiber-matrix interface. Another paper shows that the critical fiber length cannot always be considered a material constant in the framework of load transfer models based on the shear lag theory. Microwave plasma treatment is a quick technology to change fiber surface structure as the oxidation or the roughening of the fiber increases fiber-matrix adhesion. Another paper evaluates the effect of improved adhesion on mechanical performance under static, dynamic, and impact conditions. It also examines the role of fiber anisotropy on the performance of high performance polyethylene/epoxy composites. By using the Laser Raman Spectroscopy, the investigator can analyze the effects of the fiber surface treatment, the fiber modulus, the curing temperature on the Shear strength, and the fracture mechanics of the interface. The collection can be read profitably by chemists, biochemists, and academicians involved in material compound research.

Polymer composites represent materials of great and of continuously growing importance. Their potential for application appears to be limitless. They have been the subject of numerous studies both at academic and industrial levels. Much progress has been made in the incisive formulation of composites; sophisticated methods of property evaluation have been developed in the past decade and many, largely empirical solutions have been proposed to resolve the problem of their long-term performance under typical conditions of use (i. e. the use of silane or titane coupling agents to enhance adhesion within composite materials). Assuredly one of the most essential factors in the performance of these systems is the condition of the interface and interphase among the constituents of a given system. It has become clear that it is the interface/interphase, and the interactions which take place in this part of a system, which determine to a significant degree the initial properties of the material. In order to achieve leadership in the formulation and application of polymer composites, it is evident that in depth understanding of interfacial and interphase phenomena becomes a prerequisite.

Integrating basic science, engineering, and medical applications, this handbook provides a treatment of materials used in or on the human body - ranging from biopolymers for controlled release drug delivery systems to metal plates used in bone repair and absorbable devices such as sutures.

Papers presented at the March 1994 symposium are organized into five sections that progress from basic understanding of mechanical damage mechanisms and environmental effects to life prediction methodology. Five papers discuss the interplay between interfacial strength, residual thermal stresses, an