Introduction to Industrial Polymers

The second edition of this well-known work provides a comprehensive overview of industrial polymers. It is divided into four parts: general introduction, addition polymers, condensation polymers, and special polymers. Materials ranging from general plastics, man-made fibers, and elastomers, to blends, alloys, and functional polymers are included. The book evolved from the author's experience teaching a course on industrial polymers at Wesleyan University, and it therefore is ideal as an upper-level text as well as reference for professionals. Though most textbooks in polymer science deal with principles and are slanted toward material properties rather than chemistry, Ulrich's book details polymers which are used extensively in today's industry, their significance and social impact, and current and future trends, such as the synthesis of functional macromolecules. This second edition also introduces new copolymers with improved properties, and blends and alloys of the major thermoplastic polymers that are replacing homopolymers and copolymers. Other topics of interest are reaction polymers and self-reinforcing liquid crystal polymers, which have added a new dimension to polymer composites. Chemists, chemical engineers, and materials scientists will find this proven work an indispensable resource.