Krzysztof Pielichowski – författare

Polymer Composites with Functional Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications reviews the latest research in the area of polymer nanocomposites and functionalized nanoparticles, providing an introduction for those new to the field, and supporting further research and development. The book helps researchers and practitioners better understand the key role of nanoparticle functionalization for improving the compatibility of inorganic metallic nanomaterials with organic polymers, and for the fabrication of nanostructured materials with special properties. A range of nanoparticles, such as carbon nanotubes are covered, along with descriptions of the methods of functionalization to support better compatibility with polymer matrices.

The book also discusses the various applications of this technology, including uses in electronics and the medical and energy industries.

Thermal Degradation of Polymeric Materials, Second Edition offers a wealth of information for polymer researchers and processors who require a thorough understanding of the implications of thermal degradation on materials and product performance. Sections cover thermal degradation mechanisms and kinetics, as well as various techniques, such as thermogravimetry in combination with mass spectroscopy and infrared spectrometry to investigate thermal decomposition routes. Other chapters focus on polymers and copolymers, including polyolefins, styrene polymers, polyvinyl chloride, polyamides, polyurethanes, polyesters, polyacrylates, natural polymers, inorganic polymers, high temperature-resistant and conducting polymers, blends, organic-inorganic hybrid materials, nanocomposites, and biocomposites.

Finally, other key considerations such as recycling of polymers by thermal degradation, thermal degradation during processing, and modelling, are discussed in detail.

Multifunctional Phase Change Materials: Fundamentals, Properties and Applications updates on phase change materials (PCMs) used for the storage of thermal energy as sensible and latent heat. This class of materials is the subject of intensive research, both fundamental and applied, as they substantially contribute to the efficient use and conservation of waste heat and solar energy. Different groups of materials have been investigated as PCMs, including inorganic systems (salt and salt hydrates), organic, e.g., paraffins or fatty acids, polymers, and finally, hybrid materials. Recent developments are focused on multifunctional PCMs that provide functional features apart from energy storage, such as desired optical or antibacterial properties.

This book presents various synthesis approaches for functionalized materials, as well as specific interactions and self-organization effects in polymer/functionalized (nano)particle systems. It reviews the current state-of-the-art in multifunctional phase change materials for thermal energy storage applications by describing the fundamentals of energy storage, the main classes of PCMs, functionalization protocols, encapsulation methods and shape stabilization procedures.

Health and Environmental Safety of Nanomaterials addresses concerns about the impact of nanomaterials on the environment and human health, and examines the safety of specific nanomaterials. Understanding the unique chemical and physical properties of nanostructures has led to many developments in the applications of nanocomposite materials. While these materials have applications in a huge range of areas, their potential for toxicity must be thoroughly understood.

Part one introduces the properties of nanomaterials, nanofillers, and nanocomposites, and questions whether they are more toxic than their bulk counterparts. Part two looks at the release and exposure of nanomaterials. The text covers sampling techniques and data analysis methods used to assess nanoparticle exposure, as well as protocols for testing the safety of polymer nanocomposites. It explains characterization techniques of airborne nanoparticles and life cycle assessment of engineered nanomaterials. Part three focuses on the safety of certain nanomaterials, including nanolayered silicates, carbon nanotubes, and metal oxides. In particular, it explores the potential ecotoxicological hazards associated with the different structures of carbon nanotubes and the safe recycling of inorganic and carbon nanoparticles. The final two chapters address the risks of nanomaterials in fire conditions: their thermal degradation, flammability, and toxicity in different fire scenarios.

This is a scientific guide with technical background for professionals using nanomaterials in industry, scientists, academicians, research scholars, and polymer engineers. It also offers a deep understanding of the subject for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

This book provides an overview of polymer nanocomposites and hybrid materials with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS). Among inorganic nanoparticles, functionalized POSS are unique nano-building blocks that can be used to create a wide variety of hybrid and composite materials, where precise control of nanostructures and properties is required. This book describes the influence of incorporation of POSS moieties into (organic) polymer matrices on the mechanical, thermal and flammability behavior of composites and hybrid organic-inorganic materials. Importantly, POSS-containing materials can be bio-functionalized by linking e.g. peptides and growth factors through appropriate surface modification in order to enhance the haemo-compatibility of cardiovascular devices made of these materials. This volume includes descriptions of synthesis routes of POSS and POSS-containing polymeric materials (e.g. based on polyolefines, epoxy resins and polyurethanes), presentation of POSS’ role as flame retardants and as biocompatible linker, as well as the depiction of decomposition and ageing processes.

An all-in-one reference work covering the essential principles and techniques on thermal behavior and response of polymeric materials

This book delivers a detailed understanding of the thermal behavior of polymeric materials evaluated by thermal analysis methods. It covers the most widely applied principles which are used in method development to substantiate what happens upon heating of polymers. It also reviews the key application areas of polymers in materials science. Edited by two experts in the field, the book covers a wide range of specific topics within the aforementioned categories of discussion, such as:

Polymer chemists, chemical engineers, materials scientists, and process engineers can use this comprehensive reference work to gain clarity on the topics discussed within and learn how to harness them in practical applications across a wide range of disciplines.

An all-in-one reference work covering the essential principles and techniques on thermal behavior and response of polymeric materials

This book delivers a detailed understanding of the thermal behavior of polymeric materials evaluated by thermal analysis methods. It covers the most widely applied principles which are used in method development to substantiate what happens upon heating of polymers. It also reviews the key application areas of polymers in materials science. Edited by two experts in the field, the book covers a wide range of specific topics within the aforementioned categories of discussion, such as:

Polymer chemists, chemical engineers, materials scientists, and process engineers can use this comprehensive reference work to gain clarity on the topics discussed within and learn how to harness them in practical applications across a wide range of disciplines.