An Introduction to Polymer Physics

A general introduction to polymer physics suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate students.

Assuming no previous knowledge of polymers, this book provides a general introduction to the physics of solid polymers. Covering a wide range of topics within the field of polymer physics, the book begins with a brief history of the development of synthetic polymers and an overview of the methods of polymerisation and processing. In the following chapter, David Bower describes important experimental techniques used in the study of polymers. The main part of the book, however, is devoted to the structure and properties of solid polymers, including blends, copolymers and liquid crystal polymers. With an approach appropriate for advanced undergraduate and graduate students of physics, materials science or chemistry, the book includes many worked examples, and problems with solutions. It will provide a firm foundation for the study of the physics of solid polymers.

Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. Some physical techniques for studying polymers; 3. Molecular sizes and shapes and ordered structures; 4. Regular chains and crystallinity; 5. Morphology and motion; 6. mechanical properties I - time-independent elasticity; 7. Mechanical properties II - linear viscoelasticity; 8. Yield and fracture of polymers; 9. Electrical and optical properties; 10. Oriented polymers I - production and characterisation; 11. Oriented polymers II - models and properties; 12. Polymer blends, copolymers, and liquid crystal polymers; Appendix: Cartesian tensors; Solutions to problems; Index.

A general introduction to solid polymer physics at a more elementary level than many existing books, assuming no previous knowledge of polymers. Suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate students of physics, materials science or chemistry, it includes worked examples, and problems with solutions.

David Bower received his D. Phil from the University of Oxford in 1964. In 1990 he became a Reader in the Department of Physics at the University of Leeds, retiring from this position in 1995.