This text deals with the behavior of polymers at surfaces and interfaces. Topics covered include the nature and properties of the surface of a polymer melt, the structure of interfaces among different polymers and between polymers and nonpolymers, the molecular basis of adhesion and the properties of polymers at liquid surfaces. Emphasis is placed on the underlying physical principles. It introduces statistical mechanics models of polymer behavior near interfaces, emphasizing theory that is applicable to experimental situations. Advanced undergraduates, graduate students and research workers in physics, chemistry and materials science with an interest in polymers will find this book of interest.

In what is an extremely practical and applicable new work, experts provide concise explanations, with examples and illustrations, of the key techniques in this important field. In each case, after basic principles have been reviewed, applications of the experimental techniques are discussed and illustrated with specific examples. Scientists and engineers in research and development will benefit from an application-oriented book that helps them to find solutions to both fundamental and applied problems. They will know that the surfaces and interfaces of polymers play an important role in most of the application areas of polymers, from moulds, foils, and composites, to biomaterials and applications in micro- and nanotechnology.

Physics of Polymer Surfaces and Interfaces emphasizes current theoretical ideas and modern experimental tools for characterizing the physical properties of polymer surfaces and interfaces. Foremost are their important roles in polymer technology throughthe processes of wetting, adhesion, adsorption, and through their effect on the kinetics of phase separation and mechanical mixing of molten polymers. Each of the 14 chapters in this book stands as a 'mini-review' of a specific subject. This up-to-date compendium of the most significant theoretical and experimental works provides a scientific understanding of the physics of polymer interfaces and surfaces and will aid scientists in planning and interpreting new results.

In what is an extremely practical and applicable new work, experts provide concise explanations, with examples and illustrations, of the key techniques in this important field. In each case, after basic principles have been reviewed, applications of the experimental techniques are discussed and illustrated with specific examples. Scientists and engineers in research and development will benefit from an application-oriented book that helps them to find solutions to both fundamental and applied problems. They will know that the surfaces and interfaces of polymers play an important role in most of the application areas of polymers, from moulds, foils, and composites, to biomaterials and applications in micro- and nanotechnology.

Poly mer Interface and Adhesion provides the critical basis for further advancement in thisfield. Combining the principles of interfacial science, rheology, stress analysis, and fracturemechanics, the book teaches a new approach to the analysis of long standing problemssuch as: how is the interface formed; what are its physical and mechanical properties;and how does the interface modify the stress field and fracture strength of the material.The book offers many outstanding features, including extensive listings of pertinent references, exhaustive tabulations of the interfacial properties of polymers, critical reviews ofthe many conflicting theories, and complete discussions of coupling agents, adhesion promotion, and surface modifications. Emphasis is placed on physical concepts and mechanisms, using clear, understandable mathematics.Polymer Interface and Adhesion promotes a more thorough understanding of the physical, mechanical, and adhesive properties of multiphase, polymer systems. Polymer scientistsand engineers, surface chemists, materials scientists, rheologists, as well as chemical andmechanical engineers interested in the research, development or industrial applications ofpolymers, plastics, fibers, coatings, adhesives, and composites need this important newsource b

The theoretical and experimental study of polymers, polymer surfaces and thin films has undergone a revolution in the last 25 years. This book captures recent advances in this field. It covers equilibrium aspects, kinetics and reactions at interfaces. It is aimed not only at a research audience but also at beginners.

A practical guide for graduate students and researchers on all aspects of x-ray scattering experiments on liquid surfaces and interfaces.