This book introduces the techniques used for the analysis of polymers. It covers the main aspects of polymer science and technology; identification, polymerization, molecular weight, structure, surface properties, degradation and mechanical properties. * Clear explanations of each analytical technique * Describes the application of techniques to the study of polymers * Encourages learning through numerous self-assessment questions and answers * Structured for flexible learning

The aim of this book is to familiarize the reader with the practical aspects of polymer analysis. A wealth of practical detail, including some detailed methods is included. The book covers not only the analysis of the main types of polymers and copolymers now in use commercially, but also the analysis of minor non-polymeric components of the polymer formulation, whether they be deliberately added, such as processing additives, or whether they occur adventitiously, such as moisture and residual monomers and solvent. A broad scheme for the examination of polymers is discussed in Chapter 2. Practically all of the major newer analytical techniques and many of the older classical techniques, have been used to examine polymers and their additive systems. As so many different polymers are now used commercially it is also advisable when attempting to identify a polymer to classify it by first separating it into pure polymeric and gross non polymeric fractions (Chapter Z) and then carrying out at least a qualitative elemental analysis and possible a quantitative analysis (Chapters 3 and 4) and then in some cases, depending on the elements found, to carry out functional group analysis (Chapters 6 and 9).

This series presents critical reviews of the present and future trends in polymer and biopolymer science including chemistry, physical chemistry, physics and materials science. It is addressed to all scientists at universities and in industry who wish to keep abreast of advances in the topics covered. Impact Factor Ranking: Always number one in Polymer Science. More information as well as the electronic version of the whole content available at: www.springerlink.com

This volume provides an overview of polymer characterization test methods. The methods and instrumentation described represent modern analytical techniques useful to researchers, product development specialists, and quality control experts in polymer synthesis and manufacturing. Engineers, polymer scientists and technicians will find this volume useful in selecting approaches and techniques applicable to characterizing molecular, compositional, rheological, and thermodynamic properties of elastomers and plastics.

Principles and Practices of Polymer Mass Spectrometry helps readers acquire the skills necessary for selecting the optimal methods, handling samples, analyzing the data, and interpreting the results of the mass spectrometry of polymers. This guide describes the principles of polymer MS and best practices in polymer characterization. It discusses different approaches, including MALDI, ESI, TOF MS, and FT-MS. It provides a guide to developing appropriate sample preparation protocols for different polymers. Complete with examples of applications and experiments, this is an excellent reference for scientists, researchers, graduate students, and others.

Presents a solid introduction to thermal analysis, methods, instrumentation, calibration, and application along with the necessary theoretical background. Useful to chemists, physicists, materials scientists, and engineers who are new to thermal analysis techniques, and to existing users of thermal analysis who wish expand their experience to new techniques and applications Topics covered include Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Differential Thermal Analysis (DSC/DTA), Thermogravimetry, Thermomechanical Analysis and Dilatometry, Dynamic Mechanical Analysis, Micro-Thermal Analysis, Hot Stage Microscopy, and Instrumentation. Written by experts in the various areas of thermal analysis Relevant and detailed experiments and examples follow each chapter.

Analysis of Flame Retardancy in Polymer Science is a scientific/practical book that is conceptualized, designed, and written for students, early-career researchers, and junior engineers to explain the basic principles of fire analysis/characterization methods/methodologies, from flammability, ignition, and fire spread to forced convection and related analyses and to elucidate the mechanisms underlying flame retardancy in both gas and condensed phases followed by correlation between laboratory- and real-scale fire analyses as well as fire analysis from an industrial standpoint. This book is also an indispensable resource for identifying and mounting the latest achievements in fire analysis/characterization methods to frame the effects of fire evaluation strategies to be utilized for research and development. The book also gives a broad description of fire analysis related to different standards and regulations for different applications in different geographic zones. - Includes the background, fundamental, and modern features of techniques of characterization of fire and flame behavior - Provides an overview of the major techniques used in fire analysis of flame-retardant polymers - Characterizes different types of materials at small, bench, and real-life scale - Offers a comprehensive overview of fire behavior and testing and associated toxicity issues - Integrates the scientific, technical, standard, regulation, and industrial aspects of fire analysis into a book for future developments in the field