Now in its second edition, this widely used text provides a unique presentation of today's polymer science. It is both comprehensive and readable. The authors are leading educators in this field with extensive background in industrial and academic polymer research.

The text starts with a description of the types of microstructures found in polymer materials. This forms the basis of understanding some of the key features of the various mechanisms of homopolymerization and copolymerization that are discussed in following chapters. Also discussed in these chapters are the kinetics and statistics of polymerization with a separate chapter on the characterization of chain structure by spectroscopic methods.

The next part of the text deals with chain conformation, structure and morphology, leading to a discussion of crystallization, melting and glass transition. The discussion then moves from solid state to solution properties where solution thermodynamics is introduced. This provides the basis for discussion of the measurement of molecular weight by various solution methods.

The final chapter deals with mechanical and rheological properties, which are discussed from a phenomenological continuum approach and then in terms of a fundamental molecular perspective.

Altogether, the text provides a comprehensive, lucid introduction to today's polymer science as a foundation to the R&D of polymeric materials. More than 200 schematics and other figures illustrate key concepts and important aspects of polymeric materials. The text will be useful as an update for polymer and other materials scientists in industry, and as an introduction to engineers working with polymeric materials who would benefit from a better understanding of polymer science basics.

Reviews

"This is, quite simply, the best...textbook on polymer science I have ever read. Why such strong praise? Because the writing style is colloquial...and the whole book screams of the authors' tremendous enthusiasm for the subject.... The authors are clearly experienced teachers."
- Chemistry in Britain (The Royal Society of Chemistry)

"The topics covered are treated in considerable detail and generally with high credibility. [T]he writing style and format are quite accessible to the reader."
- Robert Burford, Department of Materials Science, University of NSW in Materials Australia

"The book is very strong on experimental techniques (especially spectroscopic techniques) for polymer characterization.... Recommended."
- Nicholas A. Peppas, School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University

"...deep and understandable view of specific aspects of the chemistry and physics of polymers."

- Revista de Plasticos Modernos (Journal of Modern Plastics)

Book Information
ISBN 9781566765596
Author Michael M. Coleman
Format Hardback
Page Count 496
Imprint CRC Press Inc
Publisher Taylor & Francis Inc
Weight(grams) 790g