Crystallization in Multiphase Polymer Systems is the first book that explains in depth the crystallization behavior of multiphase polymer systems. Polymeric structures are more complex in nature than other material structures due to their significant structural disorder. Most of the polymers used today are semicrystalline, and the subject of crystallization is still one of the major issues relating to the performance of semicrystalline polymers in the modern polymer industry. The study of the crystallization processes, crystalline morphologies and other phase transitions is of great significance for the understanding the structure-property relationships of these systems. Crystallization in block copolymers, miscible blends, immiscible blends, and polymer composites and nanocomposites is thoroughly discussed and represents the core coverage of this book. The book critically analyzes the kinetics of nucleation and growth process of the crystalline phases in multi-component polymer systems in different length scales, from macro to nanoscale. Various experimental techniques used for the characterization of polymer crystallization process are discussed. Written by experts in the field of polymer crystallization, this book is a unique source and enables professionals and students to understand crystallization behavior in multiphase polymer systems such as block copolymers, polymer blends, composites and nanocomposites. - Covers crystallization of multiphase polymer systems, including copolymers, blends and nanocomposites - Features comprehensive, detailed information about the basic research, practical applications and new developments for these polymeric materials - Analyzes the kinetics of nucleation and growth process of the crystalline phases in multi-component polymer systems in different length scales, from macro to nanoscale

Polymeric crystals are more complex in nature than other materials' crystal structures due to significant structural disorder present. The only comprehensive reference on polymer crystallization, Handbook of Polymer Crystallization provides readers with a broad, in-depth guide on the subject, covering the numerous problems encountered during crystallization as well as solutions to resolve those problems to achieve the desired result. Edited by leading authorities in the field, topics explored include neat polymers, heterogeneous systems, polymer blends, polymer composites orientation induced crystallization, crystallization in nanocomposites, and crystallization in complex thermal processing conditions.

FROM THE PREFACE Almost all polymeric systems are subjected to a flow field at least once along the route between preparation and application. . . . There is also an increased interest in predictive models on phase behavior and suitable techniques for characterizing the structure of these systems when subjected to flow. Multiphase polymeric systems are particularly susceptible to flow, which may cause orientation of species, morphological changes, and phase transitions. All these events may, in turn, affect the end product properties, such as permeability, electrical conductivity, [and] mechanical properties. In processing, escalating needs have evolved for optimization and development of novel and more uniform product properties and increased productivity. In order to arrive at an understanding of processing polymeric systems under elastic flow conditions, it is convenient to analyze the basic physical mechanisms under conditions that enable development of predictive models in conjunction with controlled experimentation. . . . In recent years, the science of rheo-physics has evolved and now involves both advanced theories and experimental techniques. Rheo-physics means the rheological, morphological, and thermodynamic behavior of structured polymer systems during flow. . . . In this monograph, the rheo-optical techniques are . . . emphasized. The book gives an introduction to rheo-physics, including fundamentals of theories, and a representative selection of applications of rheo-optical techniques for analyzing multiphase systems. The chapters contain both practical advice for the new experimenter . . . as well as review material for the experienced scientist.

In polymer processing, the molecular orientation induced by flow has a significant effect on the crystallization kinetics and final morphology of the polymer produced. The impact on processing operations and object properties is extremely important and recently scientific and technological researchers have begun to quanitify these effects. The international conference 'Flow-Induced Crystallization of Polymers', held in October 2001 in Salerno, Italy, was timely and well attended. An interdisciplinary approach was taken and presentations were made on topics ranging from real-time measurement, through modelling, to final morphology and properties of polymers. Invited and other selected contributions from the conference are collected here, in this volume of Macromolecular Symposia

The series Advances in Polymer Science presents critical reviews of the present and future trends in polymer and biopolymer science. It covers all areas of research in polymer and biopolymer science including chemistry, physical chemistry, physics, material science. The thematic volumes are addressed to scientists, whether at universities or in industry, who wish to keep abreast of the important advances in the covered topics. Advances in Polymer Science enjoys a longstanding tradition and good reputation in its community. Each volume is dedicated to a current topic, and each review critically surveys one aspect of that topic, to place it within the context of the volume. The volumes typically summarize the significant developments of the last 5 to 10 years and discuss them critically, presenting selected examples, explaining and illustrating the important principles, and bringing together many important references of primary literature. On that basis, future research directions in the area can be discussed. Advances in Polymer Science volumes thus are important references for every polymer scientist, as well as for other scientists interested in polymer science - as an introduction to a neighboring field, or as a compilation of detailed information for the specialist. Review articles for the individual volumes are invited by the volume editors. Single contributions can be specially commissioned. Readership: Polymer scientists, or scientists in related fields interested in polymer and biopolymer science, at universities or in industry, graduate students