Styrenic polymers are among the economically most important plastics. They combine benign processing with a large variety of product properties - from stiff and transparent to tough and durable. The fact that styrene can be polymerized by different reaction mechanisms (radical, ionic and metal catalyzed) makes this line of products unique in regards to the variety of its properties and applications. The primary objective of this book is to provide a detailed understanding of structure and property relationships of styrenic polymers, and their specific use in various applications. By understanding basic chemistry, supermolecular assembly of block- and graft polymers and microscopic fracture mechanisms, the reader will be able to quickly derive macroscopic behavior and hence select the most suitable polymer for a given application. The second objective of this book is to provide a comprehensive overview about unique value propositions of styrenic polymers in different industries and applications. The reader will get an in-depth understanding of why specific styrenic polymers dominate in market segments like computer and printer housings, exterior automotive parts and the food packaging industry, and what the specific customer benefits of using these polymers are. Finally, the third objective is to provide an outlook for future product and application developments. Hence it serves not only as a quick reference guide for downstream industries, but also as a practical guide for students and researchers in this field of material science.

This report discusses the different types of styrenic copolymers available in the market place today, their properties and applications. The market situation is discussed. The chemistry of these materials is outlined, together with a summary of manufacturing methods. The morphology, manufacture and properties of key materials are described. This review is accompanied by summaries of the cited papers from the Rapra Polymer Library database.

Chemical Resistance of Engineering Thermoplastics provides a comprehensive, cross-referenced compilation of chemical resistance data that explains the effect of thousands of reagents, the environment, and other exposure media on the properties and characteristics of engineering thermoplastics – plastics which are generally used in higher performance applications. A huge range of exposure media are included, from aircraft fuel to alcohol, corn syrup to hydrochloric acid, and salt to silver acetate. This information has been substantially updated, curated, and organized by the engineers at M-Base Engineering + Software, a leading supplier of material databases, material information systems, product information systems, and material related simulation software. This book is a must-have reference for engineers and scientists who are designing and working with plastics and elastomers in environments where they come into contact with corrosive or reactive substances, from food, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices to the automotive, aerospace, and semiconductor industries. - Explains the effect of thousands of reagents, the environment, and other exposure media on the properties and characteristics of engineering thermoplastics - Substantially updated, curated, and organized by the engineers at M-Base Engineering + Software, a leading supplier of material databases and material information systems - Provides a comprehensive, cross-referenced compilation of chemical resistance data

This book gives an overview of recent advances in the fracture mechanics of polymers, morphology property correlations, hybrid methods for polymer testing and polymer diagnostics, and biocompatible materials and medical prostheses, as well as application examples and limits.

Understanding the thermal degradation of polymers is of paramount importance for developing a rational technology of polymer processing and higher-temperature applications. Controlling degradation requires understanding of many different phenomena, including chemical mechanisms, the influence of polymer morphology, the complexities of oxidation chemistry, and the effects of stabilisers, fillers and other additives. This book offers a wealth of information for polymer researchers and processors requiring an understanding of the implications of thermal degradation on material and product performance.

This title addresses the latest developments in the field, covering the major advances that have occurred over the past five years in the polymerization and structure of new generation polystyrenes that are broadening its scope of application. It covers the advent of branched polystyrenes, syndiotactic polystyrene, high-molecular weight general purpose PS, styrenic interpolymers, and clear SBS copolymers Presents voluminous research previously only reported at conferences in one reference Unique coverage of a topic not found in the field

The new edition of this bestselling reference provides fully updated and detailed descriptions of plastics joining processes, plus an extensive compilation of data on joining specific materials. The volume is divided into two main parts: processes and materials. The processing section has 18 chapters, each explaining a different joining technique. The materials section has joining information for 25 generic polymer families. Both sections contain data organized according to the joining methods used for that material. - A significant and extensive update from experts at The Welding Institute - A systematic approach to discussing each joining method including: process, advantages and disadvantages, applications, materials, equipment, joint design, and welding parameters - Includes international suppliers' directory and glossary of key joining terms - Includes new techniques such as flash free welding and friction stir welding - Covers thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers, and rubbers.

Loaded with practical knowledge, Reactive Polymers Fundamentals and Applications: A Concise Guide to Industrial Polymers comprehensively presents the state-of-art of methods and materials for the formulation of polymeric resins. It is an indispensable tool for chemists, engineers, and manufacturers who use, formulate, and cure raw materials into final products. The text focuses on the chemical modification of properties during the final stage of part fabrication from plastics. Newer applications range from the small scale, such as dental fillings, to industrial processes for batch fabrication. The book covers resin groups in major use in industry and under active research and development.