Ionic polymers are present almost everywhere in the world, biological systems being the most important reservoir of ionic polymers such as nucleic acids, and many proteins, alginic acid and so on. Artificial ionic polymers derived from natural polymers such as chitin, cellulose or starch, by adequate chemical transformations, and a multitude of synthetic ionic polymers are generated in the laboratory. They can contain ionic or ionisable groups. Ionic polymers, either artificial or synthetic, have a multitude of applications such as: stabilisation or destabilisation of dispersions, thickening of solutions, oil recovery aids, water purification, corrosion inhibitors, soil conditioners, anti-static agents, additives in cosmetics and foods, surface modification, and so forth. Solid ionic hybrid materials found applications such as polymer electrolytes or substrates for the organic synthesis in solid phase. Many books and article reviews were dedicated to this wide class of polymers but the permanent diversification of their structures and applications ask for new and updated overviews on this field. Therefore, this book reports updated information from literature as well as original contributions in the field of ionic (co)polymers and hybrids, mainly on the applications of ionic polymers and hybrids such as: self-assembled multi-layers, ionic polymers containing azobenzene chromophore, phase separation processes, chelating ion exchangers, polymer electrolytes, functionalised solid surfaces and ionic hybrid hydrogels.

This book tries to disseminate recent research results, and to stimulate new and extended activities in the field of polymer science and hybrid materials. Spectacular advances in polymer synthesis have led to a high level of control over molecular and supramolecular architectures. The book tries to get attention of the reader on some representative topics of polymer science and hybrid materials by seven contributions from prominent authors who are involved either in the synthesis and characterisation of linear and non-linear nonionic polymers, or in the design and characterisation of new hybrid materials.

Modern Approaches in Membrane Technology for Gas Separation and Water Treatment presents condensed information on novel and promising membrane materials. The book answers some major questions from the membrane community about three promising materials that are to be introduced at industrial scale. It introduces recent, out of the box, ideas concerning the application of new methods capable to enhance the membrane separation efficiency. Sections cover potential commercialization, important question on three famous membrane materials, and new approaches in membrane technology. Finally, the book describes and discusses three novel ideas about the potential effect of the magnetic field on membrane separation efficiency, the use of cryogenic technology on membrane separations, and the use of nanobubble technology on water membrane processes. - Focuses on the necessity for environmental-friendly and cost-effective purification and separation process - Lists all new membrane materials suitable for commercialization - Presents new modern approaches and ideas for improving the membrane efficiency

Discussing every aspect of the fabrication, properties, and use of metal-filled polymers, this unique single-source reference covers the full range of current and potential applications -- from the insulation to the conduction level. Metal-Filled Polymers describes the most recent experimentation in determining the shielding effectiveness of plastics filled with metal ... compares the advantages of metal fillers over conventional nonmetallic fillers ... delineates the concept of interphase (which has recently found importance in predicting the mechanism of crack growth) ... and shows how the geometry and orientation of filler particles affect conduction, strength, and stiffness under various loading conditions. In addition, the book explains how the filler interacts with the matrix to improve composite properties ... and details the theoretical development of both mechanical and thermal properties. Encompassing the entire literature on their respective topics, contributions by eminent researchers focus on the very latest state-of-the-art data and relate findings directly to practical uses in current technology. Metal-Filled Polymers will prove a vital reference for plastics, materials, process, chemical, design, and mechanical engineers and managers in the plastics and metals industries. It will also be a useful resource for manufacturers of conductive composites for EMI shielding, and professional seminars and graduate-level courses in composite materials. Book jacket.

This book presents these important facts: a) The mechanism of anionic polymerization, a more than 50-year challenge in polymer chemistry, has now become better understood; b) Precise synthesis of many polymers with novel architectures (triblock, multi-block, graft, exact graft, comb, cyclic, many armed stars with multi-components, dendrimer-like hyper-branched, and their structural mixed (co)polymers, etc.) have been advanced significantly; c) Based on such polymers, new morphological and self-organizing nano-objects and supra molecular assemblies have been created and widely studied and are considered nanodevices in the fields of nano science and technology; d) New high-tech and industrial applications for polymeric materials synthesized by anionic polymerization have been proposed. These remarkable developments have taken place in the last 15 years. Anionic polymerization continues to be the only truly living polymerization system (100 % termination free under appropriate conditions) and consequently the only one with unique capabilities in the synthesis of well-defined (i.e., precisely controlled molecular weight, nearly mono-disperse molecular weight distribution, structural and compositional homogeneity) complex macromolecular architectures. This book, with contributions from the world’s leading specialists, will be useful for all researchers, including students, working in universities, in research organizations, and in industry.

Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells: Emerging Trends and Advanced Applications is highly focused on addressing all aspects of dye sensitized solar cell technology. In this book, the authors present systematic analysis and working principles and detailed studies of individual components, manufacturing methods, software assisted design surrounding the technology market, commercialization potential, and performance evaluations and detailed fabrication methods and parameters. As there is no specific book which could encircle all the aspects of dye sensitized solar cells from its very basic working principles to advanced approached to improve it efficiency, this book fills that gap. Providing a comprehensive study on dye sensitized solar cells, this reference covers basic working principles to advanced approaches in improving efficiency as well as thermodynamic and kinetic studies. It will be ideal for advanced stage researchers and engineers looking to get a grip on DSSC technology. - Provides a compilation of all-important principles and advanced research in the field of dye sensitized solar cells - Specifies constituents of each DSSC, from basic to advanced level - Details advances in fabrication and software assisted design of DSSC

Phase morphology in multicomponent polymer-based systems represents the main physical characteristic that allows for control of the material design and implicitly the development of new plastics. Emphasizing properties of these promising new materials in both solution and solid phase, this book describes the preparation, processing, properties, and practical implications of advanced multiphase systems from macro to nanoscales. It covers a wide range of systems including copolymers, polymer blends, polymer composites, gels, interpenetrating polymers, and layered polymer/metal structures, describing aspects of polymer science, engineering, and technology. The book analyzes experimental and theoretical aspects regarding the thermal and electrical transport phenomena and magnetic properties of crucial importance in advanced technologies. It reviews the most recent advances concerning morphological, rheological, interfacial, physical, fire-resistant, thermophysical, and biomedical properties of multiphase polymer systems. Concomitantly the book deals with basic investigation techniques that are sensitive in elucidating the features of each phase. It also discusses the latest research trends that offer new solutions for advanced bio- and nanotechnologies. Introduces an overview of recent studies in the area of multiphase polymer systems, their micro- and nanostructural evolutions in advanced technologies, and provides future outlooks, new challenges and opportunities. Discusses multicomponent structures that offer enhanced physical, mechanical, thermal, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties adapted to current requirements of modern technologies. Covers a wide range of materials, such as composites, blends, alloys, gels and interpenetrating polymer networks. Presents new strategies for controlling the micro- and nanomorphology and the mechanical properties of multiphase polymeric materials. Describes different applications of multiphase polymeric materials in various fields, including automotive, aeronautics and space industry, displays, and medicine.

Bio-based Materials and Biotechnologies for Eco-efficient Construction fills a gap in the published literature, discussing bio-based materials and biotechnologies that are crucial for a more sustainable construction industry. With comprehensive coverage and contributions from leading experts in the field, the book includes sections on Bio-based materials and biotechnologies for infrastructure applications, Bio-based materials and biotechnologies for building energy efficiency, and other applications, such as using biotechnology to reduce indoor air pollution, for water treatment, and in soil decontamination. The book will be an essential reference resource for academic researchers, civil engineers, contractors working in construction works, postgraduate students and other professionals.

Polymers are one of the most fascinating materials of the present era finding their applications in almost every aspects of life. Polymers are either directly available in nature or are chemically synthesized and used depending upon the targeted applications.Advances in polymer science and the introduction of new polymers have resulted in the significant development of polymers with unique properties. Different kinds of polymers have been and will be one of the key in several applications in many of the advanced pharmaceutical research being carried out over the globe. This 4-partset of books contains precisely referenced chapters, emphasizing different kinds of polymers with basic fundamentals and practicality for application in diverse pharmaceutical technologies. The volumes aim at explaining basics of polymers based materials from different resources and their chemistry along with practical applications which present a future direction in the pharmaceutical industry. Each volume offer deep insight into the subject being treated. Volume 1: Structure and Chemistry Volume 2: Processing and Applications Volume 3: Biodegradable Polymers Volume 4: Bioactive and Compatible Synthetic/Hybrid Polymers