This monograph is an updated and extended edition of Strength and Fracture of Polymer Films, which was published in Russian in 1999. It presents the results of long-term theoretical and experimental studies of brittle and quasi-brittle fracture of solid polymers. The principal results of a comprehensive and detailed investigation of the statistical

Wetting: Theory and Experiments collates papers published by Professor Eli Ruckenstein and his coworkers on the theoretical and experimental investigation of wetting of solid surfaces. It contains six chapters, each of which is preceded by a short introduction. The papers are selected according to the specific features being considered and they are arranged in logical rather than chronological order. The book focuses on wetting on the nanoscale (nanodrops on solid surfaces, liquid in the nanoslit) considered on the basis of microscopic density functional theory and to dynamics of fluid on the solid surface considered on the basis of hydrodynamic equations. Along with this, experimental studies of wetting related to various applications are presented.

Emulsions and Emulsion Stability, Second Edition provides comprehensive coverage of both theoretical and practical aspects of emulsions. The book presents fundamental concepts and processes in emulsified systems, such as flocculation, coalescence, stability, precipitation, deposition, and the evolution of droplet size distribution. The bo

Organic photovoltaics (OPV) are a new generation of solar cells with the potential to offer very short energy pay back times, mechanical flexibility and significantly lower production costs compared to traditional crystalline photovoltaic systems. A weakness of OPV is their comparative instability during operation and this is a critical area of research towards the successful development and commercialization of these 3rd generation solar cells. Covering both small molecule and polymer solar cells, Stability and Degradation of Organic and Polymer Solar Cells summarizes the state of the art understanding of stability and provides a detailed analysis of the mechanisms by which degradation occurs. Following an introductory chapter which compares different photovoltaic technologies, the book focuses on OPV degradation, discussing the origin and characterization of the instability and describing measures for extending the duration of operation. Topics covered include: Chemical and physical probes for studying degradation Imaging techniques Photochemical stability of OPV materials Degradation mechanisms Testing methods Barrier technology and applications Stability and Degradation of Organic and Polymer Solar Cells is an essential reference source for researchers in academia and industry, engineers and manufacturers working on OPV design, development and implementation.

Kinetic & Thermodynamic Aspects of Polymer Stability

Wetting Theory discusses the numerous practical applications of wetting, such as preparing self-cleaning surfaces, manufacturing artificial blood vessels, and developing new lubricants and nonadhesive dishes. As part of Wetting: Theory and Experiments, Two-Volume Set, thisvolume provides new, critical insights into the theory of wetting. Chapters are arranged to allow readers to follow the development of a suggested approach (static and dynamic properties of wetting) and how these tools are applied to specific problems. Main attention is given to nanoscale wetting (nanodrops on solid surfaces, liquid in the nanoslit) on the basis of microscopic density functional theory and fluid dynamics on solid surfaces on the basis of hydrodynamic equations. Aimed at engineers, physical scientists, and materials scientists, this volume addresses the key areas of wetting, providing invaluable insights to the field.