This book, cohesively written by an expert author with supreme breadth and depth of perspective on polyurethanes, provides a comprehensive overview of all aspects of the science and technology on one of the most commonly produced plastics. Covers the applications, manufacture, and markets for polyurethanes, and discusses analytical methods, reaction mechanisms, morphology, and synthetic routes Provides an up-to-date view of the current markets and trend analysis based on patent activity and updates chapters to include new research Includes two new chapters on PU recycling and PU hybrids, covering the opportunities and challenges in both

This comprehensive textbook describes the synthesis, characterization and technical and engineering applications of polymers. Offering a broad and balanced introduction to the basic concepts of macromolecular chemistry and to the synthesis and physical chemistry of polymers, it is the ideal text for graduate students and advanced Masters students starting out in polymer science. Building on the basic principles of organic chemistry and thermodynamics, it provides an easily understandable and highly accessible introduction to the topic. Step by step, readers will obtain a detailed and well-founded understanding of this vibrant and increasingly important subject area at the intersection between chemistry, physics, engineering and the life sciences.Following an approach different from many other textbooks in the field, the authors, with their varying backgrounds (both from academia and industry), offer a new perspective. Starting with a clear and didactic introduction, the book discusses basic terms and sizes and shapes of polymers and macromolecules. There then follow chapters dedicated to polymers in solutions, molar mass determination, and polymers in the solid state, incl. (partially) crystalline or amorphous polymers as well as their application as engineering materials. Based on this information, the authors explain the most important polymerization methods and techniques. Often neglected in other textbooks, there are chapters on technical polymers, functional polymers, elastomers and liquid crystalline polymers, as well as polymers and the environment. An overview of current trends serves to generate further interest in present and future developments in the field.This book is the English translation of the successful German textbook "Polymere", which was awarded the Chemical Industry in Germany’s 2015 literature Prize (“Literaturpreis des Fonds der Chemischen Industrie”) for its innovative, novel approach, and its good accessibility and readability, while at the same time providing comprehensive coverage of the field of polymer science.

This Handbook discusses the recent advances in biodegradation technologies and highlights emerging sustainable materials, including environmentally friendly nano-based materials for replacing plastics. It is useful to scientists, engineers, biologists, medical doctors and provides alternative eco-friendly materials to replace the currently used ones with harmful impact on the environment and life. The chapters present different types of alternative materials in diverse areas, such as food packaging materials, materials for construction and agricultural materials. The principles and types of biodegration technologies are described in depth.

This book covers all the proposed fuel cell systems including PEMFC, SOFC, PAFC, MCFC, regenerative fuel cells, direct alcohol fuel cells, and small fuel cells to replace batteries.

Polymer Science and Innovative Applications: Materials, Techniques, and Future Developments introduces the science of innovative polymers and composites, their analysis via experimental techniques and simulation, and their utilization in a variety of application areas. This approach helps to unlock the potential of new materials for product design and other uses. The book also examines the role that these applications play in the human world, from pollution and health impacts, to their potential to make a positive contribution in areas including environmental remediation, medicine and healthcare, and renewable energy. Advantages, disadvantages, possibilities, and challenges relating to the utilization of polymers in human society are included. - Presents the latest advanced applications of polymers and their composites and identifies key areas for future development - Introduces the simulation methods and experimental techniques involved in the modification of polymer properties, supported by clear and detailed images and diagrams - Supports an interdisciplinary approach, enabling readers across different fields to harness the power of new materials for innovative applications

This book is a comprehensive introduction to "green" or environmentally friendly polymer composites developed using renewable polymers of natural origin such as starch, lignin, cellulose acetate, poly-lactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxylalkanoates (PHA), polyhydroxylbutyrate (PHB), etc., and the development of modern technologies for preparing green composites with various applications. The book also discusses major applications of green polymer composites in industries such as medicine, biotechnology, fine chemicals and engineering.

Nanotechnology can be used to address challenges faced by the food and bioprocessing industries for developing and implementing improved or novel systems that can produce safer, nutritious, healthier, sustainable, and environmental-friendly food products. This book overviews the most recent advances made on the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology that significantly influenced the food industry. Advances in Processing Technologies for Bio-Based Nanosystems in Food provides a multidisciplinary review of the complex mechanisms involved in the research, development, production and legislation of food containing nanostructures systems. Features: Presents the most recent advances made in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology as applied to the food industry Discusses innovative approaches and processing technologies Shows how nanotechnology can be used to produce safer, nutritious, healthier, sustainable and environmental-friendly food products Covers the complex mechanisms involved in the research, development, production and legislation of food containing nanostructures Selected examples of nanotechnology applications in food industry are shown, focusing on advanced aspects of food packaging, processing and preservation; followed by one contribution that presents the potential commercialization and the main challenges for scale-up. Comprised of 15 chapters, this book provides much-needed and up-to-date information on the use of emergent technologies in bio-based nanosystems for foods, and serves as an ideal reference for scientists, regulators, industrialists, and consumers that conduct research and development in the food processing industry.