Introduction to Polymer Chemistry

Contents: 1. Introduction. 2. Polymer structure (Morphology). 3. Molecular weight of polymers. 4. Naturally occurring polymers. 5. Step-reaction polymerization (Polycondensation reactions). 6. Ionic chain-reaction and complex coordination polymerizations (Addition polymerizations). 7. Free radical chain polymerizations (Addition polymerizations). 8. Copolymerization. 9. Organometallic and metalloid polymers. 10. Inorganic polymers. 11. Reactions of polymers. 12. Spectrometric characterization and testing of polymers. 13. Rheology and physical tests. 14. Additives. 15. Synthesis of reactants and intermediates for polymers. 16. Polymer technology. Appendices. Index.

"Most of the available texts for polymer chemistry are written for graduate students, foregoing some of the concepts that are the basis for understanding polymers. Building on the core elements of organic and physical chemistry, Introduction to Polymer Chemistry provides an articulate, well rounded presentation of the principles and applications for natural, synthetic, inorganic, and organic polymers.

The book organizes its organic intensive chapters in the front, allowing greater time for students and teachers to become familiar with the topic before embarking on physical aspects. Relating to all types of polymers, the chapters examine synthesis and polymerization reactions, reactivities, techniques for characterization and analysis, energy absorption and thermal conductivity, physical and optical properties, and more. Each chapter contains uptodate problems, learning summaries, practical glossaries, and recommended web sites for further study. The author uses compelling examples from real world applications that underscore the impact of polymers on society and emphasize the increasing role of polymers for resolving worldwide health challenges such as clean and abundant water, food preservation, clean air, and clean energy.

Written by a renowned author in the field, this book:

• Offers a solid foundation in polymer principles, using easy to understand terms that can be readily applied to other materials.
• Includes numerous, real world applications that illustrate how polymers are made and used in everyday situations.
• Discusses numerous spectrometric techniques for surface characterization, thermal analysis, electrical measurements, optical properties, chemical resistance, and other physical tests.
• Highlights the latest areas of research including genomics, optical fibers, self assembly, recycling codes and conductive materials.
• Covers polymer-based technologies including biomedical polymers, adhesives, lubricants, coatings, reinforced plastics and laminates, additives, fibers, foams, films and sheets.
• Contains special sections on nomenclature and common polymer repeat unit structures."