The term biotechnology has emerged on the contemporary scene fairly recently, but the basic concept of utilizing natural materials, either directly or in modified versions, dates back to antiquity. If we search the ancient literature, such as the Bible, we find hundreds of examples wherein people employed, or modified, natural materials for a variety of important uses. As far back as the days of Noah we find pitch, a natural material, being used as a caulk. Clothing was made from animal skins and the products of several plants. Today, we would consider these things as important biotechnological developments. Likewise, the human use of polymeric materials also has a long his tory. In fact, many of the original materials used by mankind were poly mers derived from nature, such as wood, flax, cotton, wool and animal skins, which were used for shelter and clothing. In recent years, however, the concept of biotechnology has taken on a new and renewed role in our society. This is due to a combination of factors, including an increased interest in environmental concerns and the desire to break free from the stranglehold that petrochemicals have placed on our society. If we can manufacture some of our polymers from renewable resources, then we can expect to prepare them for many more years into the future than we might if we could only depend on the petro chemical resources.

Controlled radical polymerization techniques for molecular imprinting, by Mark E. Byrne From bulk polymers to nanoparticles, by Lei Ye Post-imprinting and in-cavity functionalization, by Toshifumi Takeuchi Characterization of MIPs (affinity, selectivity, site heterogeneity...), by Richard Ansell Theoretical aspects and computer modelling, by Ian Nicholls MIPs in aqueous environments, by Bin Lu MIPs for binding macromolecules, by Kenneth J. Shea Solid phase extraction, by Ecevit Yilmaz Sensors, by Sergey A. Piletsky MIPs for catalysis and synthesis, by Marina Resmini Wastewater treatment, by Bo Mattiasson MIPs as tools for bioassays, biotransformation and drug delivery, by Meiping Zhao

Processing Technology for Bio-Based Polymers: Advanced Strategies and Practical Aspects brings together the latest advances and novel technologies surrounding the synthesis and manufacture of biopolymers, ranging from bio-based polymers to synthetic polymers from bio-derived monomers. Sections examine bio-based polymer chemistry, discuss polymerization process and emerging design technologies, cover manufacturing and processing approaches, explain cutting-edge approaches and innovative applications, and focus on biomedicals and other key application areas. Final chapters provide detailed discussion and an analysis of economic and environmental concerns, practical considerations, challenges, opportunities and future trends. This is a valuable resource for researchers, scientists and advanced students in polymer science, bio-based materials, nanomaterials, plastics engineering, biomaterials, chemistry, biotechnology, and materials science and engineering, as well as R&D professionals, engineers and industrialists interested in the development of biopolymers for advanced products and applications. - Focuses on the processing of bio-based polymers, covering both traditional methods and innovative new approaches - Offers novel opportunities and ideas for developing or improving technologies for biopolymer research, preparation and application - Examines other key considerations, including reliability and end product, economic concerns, and environmental and lifecycle aspects

Algae Based Polymers, Blends, and Composites: Chemistry, Biotechnology and Material Sciences offers considerable detail on the origin of algae, extraction of useful metabolites and major compounds from algal bio-mass, and the production and future prospects of sustainable polymers derived from algae, blends of algae, and algae based composites. Characterization methods and processing techniques for algae-based polymers and composites are discussed in detail, enabling researchers to apply the latest techniques to their own work. The conversion of bio-mass into high value chemicals, energy, and materials has ample financial and ecological importance, particularly in the era of declining petroleum reserves and global warming. Algae are an important source of biomass since they flourish rapidly and can be cultivated almost everywhere. At present the majority of naturally produced algal biomass is an unused resource and normally is left to decompose. Similarly, the use of this enormous underexploited biomass is mainly limited to food consumption and as bio-fertilizer. However, there is an opportunity here for materials scientists to explore its potential as a feedstock for the production of sustainable materials. - Provides detailed information on the extraction of useful compounds from algal biomass - Highlights the development of a range of polymers, blends, and composites - Includes coverage of characterization and processing techniques, enabling research scientists and engineers to apply the information to their own research and development - Discusses potential applications and future prospects of algae-based biopolymers, giving the latest insight into the future of these sustainable materials

The first book to tackle the application of smart polymers in bioseparation and bioprocessing, Smart Polymers: Applications in Biotechnology and Biomedicine broke new ground in this challenging field. Completely revised, updated, and following in the footsteps of its predecessor, the second edition is poised to take its place as a premier reference in this field. This new edition considers those polymers in which a highly nonlinear response of a smart polymer to small changes in the external medium is of critical importance for the successful functioning of the system. The systems discussed are based on soluble/insoluble transition of smart polymers in aqueous solution, on conformational transitions of the macromolecules physically attached or chemically grafted to a surface and on the shrinking/swelling of covalently cross-linked networks of macromolecules, i.e. smart hydrogels. The book focuses on the theory describing the behavior of smart polymers in solution, as gels, and when grafted to surfaces. It provides solid, quantitative descriptions and reliable guidelines, reflecting the maturation of the field and the demand for the development of new smart polymer systems. The coverage highlights smart gels and especially fast responding and macroporous gels, as these gels pave the way to different applications of smart polymers in the areas ofbioseparation, drug release, and microfluidics. With contributions from leading researchers as well as extensive end-of-chapter references, this volume offers a comprehensive overview of the current state-of-the-art in the field and the potential for future developments.

Considering silk from spiders, midges, and aquatic insects as well as from silk worms, the 29 papers discuss recent research in the biology, genetics, synthesis, characterization, properties, modeling, processing, and applications. Addressed to biotechnologists, materials scientists, and other professionals. Reproduced from typescripts. Annotation copyright by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

This book focuses on starch polymers including starch genetics, biotechnological and chemical modification, nanostructures, processing, characterization, properties and applications. This books topic is in a cutting edge and emerging technology area of biomaterials, nanomaterials and renewable materials, and will involve international experts in diverse fields from genetic engineering to applications. - Focuses on cutting edge applications of starch polymers, including starch genetics and Rheology - Contains working examples and provides real problems and solutions in the area of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and renewable materials - Provides systematic and in-depth coverage and critical assessment of all starch properties and applications from top scientists in the industry

Examining the chemical modification of biological polymers and the emerging applications of this technology, Chemical Modification of Biological Polymers reflects the change in emphasis in this subsection of biotechnology from the study of protein structure and function toward applications in therapeutics and diagnostics. Highlights The basic organic chemistry of the modification proteins, nucleic acids, oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, and their applications New analytical technologies used to characterize the chemical modification of biological polymers Identification of in vivo, non-enzymatic chemical modification of biological polymers Specific chemical modifications to generate biopharmaceutical products This book covers the basics on the organic chemistry underlying the chemical modification of biopolymers, including updates on the use of various chemical reagents. It describes the current status of chemical modification of biological polymers and emerging applications of this technology in biotechnology. These technologies are important for the manufacture of conjugate proteins used in drug delivery, for the preparation of nucleic acid microarrays, and for the preparation of hydrogels and other materials used in tissue engineering.

Smart Polymers and Their Applications, Second Edition presents an up-to-date resource of information on the synthesis and properties of different types of smart polymers, including temperature, pH, electro, magnetic and photo-responsive polymers, amongst others. It is an ideal introduction to this field, as well as a review of the latest research in this area. Shape memory polymers, smart polymer hydrogels, and self-healing polymer systems are also explored. In addition, a very strong focus on applications of smart polymers is included for tissue engineering, smart polymer nanocarriers for drug delivery, and the use of smart polymers in medical devices. Additionally, the book covers the use of smart polymers for textile applications, packaging, energy storage, optical data storage, environmental protection, and more. This book is an ideal, technical resource for chemists, chemical engineers, materials scientists, mechanical engineers and other professionals in a range of industries. - Includes a significant number of new chapters on smart polymer materials development, as well as new applications development in energy storage, sensors and devices, and environmental protection - Provides a multidisciplinary approach to the development of responsive polymers, approaching the subject by the different types of polymer (e.g. temperature-responsive) and its range of applications

Advanced Processing, Properties, and Applications of Starch and Other Bio-based Polymers presents the latest cutting-edge research into the processing and applications of bio-based polymers, for novel industrial applications across areas including biomedical and electronics. The book is divided into three sections, covering processing and manufacture, properties, and applications. Throughout the book, key aspects of sustainability are considered, including improved utilization of available natural resources, sustainable design possibilities, cleaner production processes, and waste management. Focuses on starch-based polymers, examining the latest advances in processing and applications with this valuable category of biopolymer Highlights industrial sustainability considerations at all steps of the process, including when sourcing materials, designing and producing products, and dealing with waste Supports the processing and development of starch and other bio-based polymers with enhanced functionality for advanced applications