Plastics Fundamentals, Properties, and Testing

Derived from the bestselling "Plastics Technology Handbook," this convenient primer provides an introduction to the basics of polymers,"" Written in a simple, cohesive style, it meets the reference needs of experienced researchers and industry workers, while also serving as a tutorial for students. The first section takes a qualitative molecular approach and focuses on polymer properties. The second section provides a quantitative emphasis in the study of polymer behavior, evaluation, and characterization. Mechanical, electrical, optical, and thermal properties are covered. A section on testing for polymer identification will prove invaluable for analyzing unknown plastic samples.

Derived from the fourth edition of the well-known Plastics Technology Handbook, Plastics Fundamentals, Properties, and Testing covers the behavior, characterization, and evaluation of polymers. With a lucid approach and wealth of valuable information, this volume looks at the remarkable versatility of this nonmetallic class of materials. Examining polymers at the molecular level, the book first discusses their inherent properties and how their end-use properties can be influenced through changes in the molecular architecture or incorporation of various fillers and additives. The authors coherently present a wide spectrum of topics by sequentially introducing structural aspects, properties, and applications. They then proceed to explore the mechanical, electrical, optical, and thermal properties of polymers, providing theoretical derivations where necessary as well as explanations on molecular and structural features. To identify the principles involved, the book also furnishes the bases of many standard test methods according to ASTM and BS 2782 specifications.

Characteristics of Polymers What Is a Polymer? Molecular Weight of Polymers Polymerization Processes Configurations of Polymer Molecules Conformations of a Polymer Molecule Polymer Crystallinity The Amorphous State Structural Shape of Polymer Molecules Thermal Transitions in Polymers Designing a Polymer Structure for Improved Properties Cross-Linking of Polymer Chains Solubility Behavior of Polymers Effects of Corrosives on Polymers Thermal Stability and Flame Retardation Deterioration of Polymers Stabilization of Polymers Metal Deactivators Light Stabilizers Light Stabilizers for Selected Plastics Diffusion and Permeability Polymer Compounding Plasticizers Antistatic Agents Flame Retardants Smoke Suppressants Colorants Antimicrobials Toxicity of Plastics Plastics Properties and Testing Introduction Mechanical Properties Reinforced Plastics Electrical Properties Optical Properties Thermal Properties Identification of Common Plastics Appendices Conversion of Units Index of Trade Names, Manufacturers, and Suppliers of Antioxidants Index of Trade Names, Manufacturers, and Suppliers of Metal Deactivators Index of Trade Names, Manufacturers, and Suppliers of Light Stabilizers Formulations of Flame-Retarded Selected Thermoplastics Index of Trade Names and Suppliers of Flame Retardants Harmonic Motion of a Maxwell Model Index References appear at the end of each chapter.