Block copolymers represent an important class of multi-phase material, which have received very widespread attention, particularly since their successful commercial development in the mid-1960s. Much of the interest in these polymers has arisen because of their rather remarkable micro phase morphology and, hence, they have been the subject of extensive microstructural examination. In many respects, the quest for a comprehensive interpretation of their structure, both theoretically and experimentally, has not been generally matched by a corresponding enthusiasm for developing structure/property relationships in the context of their commercial application. Indeed, it has been left largely to the industrial companies involved in the development and utilization of these materials to fulfil this latter role. While it is generally disappointing that a much greater synergism does not exist between science and technology, it is especially sad in the case of block copolymers. Thus these materials offer an almost unique opportunity for the application of fundamental structural and property data to the interpretation of the properties of generally processed artefacts. Accordingly, in this book, the editor has drawn together an eminent group of research workers, with the specific intention of highlighting some of those aspects of the science and technology of block copolymers that are potentially important if further advances are to be made either in material formulation or utilization. For example, special consideration is given to the relationship between the flow properties of block copo lymers and their microstructure.

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are smart materials that, as a result of an external stimulus such as temperature, can change from a temporary deformed shape back to an original shape. SMPs are finding an increasing use in such areas as clothing where they respond dynamically to changes in heat and moisture levels, ensuring greater comfort for the wearer. Shape memory polymers and textiles provides an authoritative and comprehensive review of these important new materials and their applications.After an introductory chapter on the concept and definition of shape memory materials, the book reviews methods for synthesising, characterising and modelling SMPs. It goes on to consider the properties of particular materials such as shape memory polyurethane and environmentally-sensitive polymer gels. The book concludes by assessing potential applications such as wrinkle-free fabrics and smart fabrics providing improved protection and comfort for the wearer.Shape memory polymers and textiles is a valuable guide to R&D staff in such areas as textile apparel in developing a new generation of smart textiles and other products. - Reviews the structure, synthesis and preparation of shape memory polymers - Assesses methods for analysing and modelling shape memory properties - An authoritative overview of particular fibres such as shape memory polyurethane (SMPU)

Molecular weight measurements of polyurethane block copolymers have been made using a GPC multi-detector method and compared to values obtained by the conventional polystyrene standard method and a broad molecular weight distribution calibration standard technique. The multi-detector method proposed in this paper produces more accurate molecular weight values and thus its use should allow for better understanding of molecular weight effects on the structure-property relationships of polyurethane block copolymers. The multi-detector technique can also be used to obtain Mark-Houwink constants and the distribution of average segmental composition with molecular with molecular weight. Mark-Houwink parameters method appear to be more accurate than values calculated using an approach based on broad molecular weight distribution calibration standards and suggest that for a series of polyether polyurethanes in THF, the solvent power decreases with increasing hard segment content. A comparison of the molecular weight values obtained using the various methods indicates that the relative M sub W values normally reported based on a polystyrene calibration can be considered as an upper bound on the absolute M sub W value.

Shape memory materials are immensely useful because of their capability to recover their original shapes upon exposure to an external stimulus such as heat, moisture, light or a magnetic field. This book reviews key recent research in shape memory polymers, their properties and applications. Topics include the relationship between morphological structures and shape memory properties; high performance Tg and Tm type shape memory polymers; structures of shape memory polymers with supramolecular switches; and the thermally-active and moisture-active shape memory effect of supermolecular shape memory polymers.Advances in shape memory polymers is an essential reference for polymer and textile material students, scientists, designers, engineers and manufacturers. It is also an invaluable guide for professionals in the biomedical, electronics and engineering industries. - Reviews key recent research in shape-memory polymers, their properties and applications - Opening chapters address the relationship between morphological structures and shape memory properties and high performance Tg and Tm type shape memory polymers - Chapters cover thermally-active and moisture-active shape memory effect of supermolecular shape memory polymers, among other topics