Physics of Plastics: Processing, Properties, and Materials Engineering

A detailed knowledge of the physical properties of plastics is essential to understanding and extending their use. This book promotes the relationship between processing parameters and product performance by first examining morphology in terms of texture and orientation. The basic structure of plastics is explained, along with the characterization of both polymer and plastics products. Thermal and melt properties relevant to processing are considered, and the principal shaping methods are outlined, highlighting the large number of variables. The key areas of deformation and fracture are given extensive treatment. Engineers and chemists as well as physicists and technicians in the industry will find this book extremely valuable to their research.