Plastics Design Library – serie

The use of plastics in agriculture - to increase crop output, improve food quality and improve sustainability - has grown substantially in both quantity and the range of applications. Many of the early researchers that conducted field research in the use of plastics in agriculture have either retired or are deceased. These early pioneers in plasticulture research, the basis of plant production using plastics, were very creative and persistent in discovering uses of plastics in agricultural applications.

A Guide to the Manufacture, Performance, and Potential of Plastics in Agriculture contains both references not only to their accomplishments but also their publications. The book discusses plasticulture-the basis of plant production using plastics - including topics such as plastic mulch, row covers, drip irrigation, and high/low tunnels. It covers the process of producing polyethylene and polypropylene plastics that are used in plant and animal production agriculture, and the many uses of plastics in all aspects of agriculture, including plastic greenhouses, rigid mold plastics, disposal of plastics, and plastics in animal production.

This book introduces a range of academics and industrial practitioners to the impact of plastics in agriculture, both historically and in a range of current applications. It also provides new perspectives on future developments to enable further research and application. It is an invaluable reference on the use of polyethylene, polypropylene films, and such products in all aspects of agricultural production.

Discusses plasticulture, the basis of plant production using plastics, including topics such as plastic mulch, row covers, drip irrigation, and high/low tunnels Contains 10 chapters that cover the process of producing polyethylene and polypropylene plastics that are used in agriculture Covers the many uses of plastics in all aspects of agriculture, including plastic greenhouses, rigid mold plastics, disposal of plastics, and plastics in animal production

Thermoplastics and Thermoplastic Composites, Third Edition bridges the technology and business aspects of thermoplastics, providing a guide designed to help engineers working in real-world industrial settings. The author explores the criteria for material selection, provides a detailed guide to each family of thermoplastics, and explains the various processing options for each material type. More than 30 families of thermoplastics are described with information on their advantages and drawbacks, special grades, prices, transformation processes, applications, thermal behavior, technological properties (tenacity, friction, dimensional stability), durability (ageing, creep, fatigue), chemical and fire behavior, electrical properties, and joining possibilities.

In this third edition, standards and costs have been updated for all materials, and more information on topics such as bioplastics, 3D printing and recycling have been added. In addition, an entirely new chapter on the concept of 'Industry 4.0' has been added, with guidance and suggestions on the incorporation of virtualization, connectivity, and automation into the plastics engineering process to reduce materials and processing failure.

Includes detailed case studies that illustrate best practices across a wide range of applications and industry sectors Presents a new chapter on the 'Industry 4.0' concept Suggests software solutions to assist with design, decision-making and management, along with other forms of automation

Recycling of Polyethylene Terephthalate Bottles provides an overview of PET chemistry, highlighting the main degradation, depolymerization processes and pathways of PET, along with the applications of recycled monomers derived from PET waste. The latest methodologies of recycling and feedstock recovery are covered, providing critical foundational information. In addition, the book discusses a range of established methods of polymer recycling, with an emphasis on real world industrial case studies and the latest academic research. Users will find in-depth lifecycle and cost analysis of each waste management method, comparing the suitability and feasibility of each to support the decision -making process.

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is the most recycled plastic in the world, but still represents a significant amount of landfill waste. This book presents an update on new regulations, providing recommendations for new opportunities in this area, including new processing methods and applications for recycled PET.

Features a comprehensive introduction to the waste management of PET bottles, from regulatory concerns, to the range of different methods of materials recovery Enables practitioners to choose the most efficient and effective waste management process Includes detailed lifecycle and cost analysis information Compares traditional thermal recycling methods with more recently developed monomer recovery and chemical recycling methods

Durability and Reliability of Polymers and Other Materials in Photovoltaic Modules describes the durability and reliability behavior of polymers used in Si-photovoltaic modules and systems, particularly in terms of physical aging and degradation process/mechanisms, characterization methods, accelerated exposure chamber and testing, module level testing, and service life prediction. The book compares polymeric materials to traditional materials used in solar applications, explaining the degradation pathways of the different elements of a photovoltaic module, including encapsulant, front sheet, back sheet, wires and connectors, adhesives, sealants, and more.

In addition, users will find sections on the tests needed for the evaluation of polymer degradation and aging, as well as accelerated tests to aid in materials selection. As demand for photovoltaics continues to grow globally, with polymer photovoltaics offering significantly lower production costs compared to earlier approaches, this book will serve as a welcome resource on new avenues.

Provides comprehensive coverage of photovoltaic polymers, from fundamental degradation mechanisms, to specific case studies of durability and materials failure Offers practical, actionable information in relation to service life prediction of photovoltaic modules and accelerated testing for materials selection Includes up-to-date information and interpretation of safety regulations and testing of photovoltaic modules and materials

Approx.132 pagesApprox.132 pages

PEEK biomaterials are currently used in hundreds of thousands of spinal fusion patients around the world every year. Durability, biocompatibility, and excellent resistance to aggressive sterilization procedures make PEEK a polymer of choice, replacing metal in orthopedic implants, from spinal implants and knee replacements to finger joints and dental implants.The new edition of this authoritative work sees the book expand from 17 chapters to 26 chapters to match the expansion in applications in PEEK-from spinal cages to spinal rods and disc replacements; hip and knee joint replacement; dental; trauma; and sports medicine. New PEEK formulations have been developed incorporating hydroxyapatite, additives to combat infection, and surface grafted polymers to improve lubrication. The book also covers additive manufacturing, which has made significant inroads with PEEK in the past 5 years as well by introducing the prospect of patient-specific implants.Like the 1st edition, the updated Handbook brings together experts in many different facets related to PEEK clinical performance as well as in the areas of materials science, tribology, and biology to provide a complete reference for specialists in the field of plastics, biomaterials, medical device design, and surgical applications.Useful for materials scientists and biomedical engineers, both in industry and academia, the book is a one-stop shop for information on PEEK as a biomaterial-including in-depth coverage of materials properties-while also providing cutting-edge information on applications and combinations of the material. Presents a complete reference work covering PEEK, the leading polymer for spinal implants and a range of other biomedical applications Covers a range of new formulations and applications, including in-depth coverage of the additive manufacturing of PEEK Provides a vital source of supporting information for materials selection decisions and regulatory submissions

Electrical Conductivity in Polymer-Based Composites: Experiments, Modelling and Applications offers detailed information on all aspects of conductive composites. These composites offer many benefits in comparison to traditional conductive materials, and have a broad range of applications, including electronic packaging, capacitors, thermistors, fuel cell devices, dielectrics, piezoelectric functions and ferroelectric memories. Sections cover the theory of electrical conductivity and the different categories of conductive composites, describing percolation threshold, tunneling effect and other phenomena in the field. Subsequent chapters present thorough coverage of the key phases in the development and use of conductive composites, including manufacturing methods, external parameters, applications, modelling and testing methods.This is an essential source of information for materials scientists and engineers working in the fields of polymer technology, processing and engineering, enabling them to improve manufacture and testing methods, and to benefit fully from applications. The book also provides industrial and academic researchers with a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of conductive composites and related issues.

Explains the methods used in the manufacture and testing of conductive composites, and in the modeling of electrical conductivity Contains specialized information on the full range of applications for conductive composites, including conductive adhesives or pastes Brings scientists, engineers and researchers up-to-date with the latest advances in the field

Phthalonitrile Resins and Composites: Properties and Applications summarizes the latest research on these polymers, providing information that enables materials scientists and engineers to deploy these polymers in the real world. The book gives details on synthesis and preparation techniques for key phthalonitrile monomers. All curing techniques are discussed, along with blends and copolymers of phthalonitrile with other polymeric materials, such as epoxy, benzoxazine and bismaleimide. Fiber and particle based phthalonitrile micro and nanocomposites are also discussed, along with their potential applications in lightweight automobiles, ships, oil rigs, aircraft, wind blades, high temperature bearings, valves, battery and electronic casings, fire resistant textiles, and more.

Introduces the subject of phthalonitrile polymers and their composites Provides precise information on the synthesis, preparation and curing techniques for phthalonitrile polymers Discusses developments in key application areas that are intended to facilitate and stimulate real world applications of these materials

Plastics to Energy: Fuel, Chemicals, and Sustainability Implications covers important trends in the science and technology of polymer recovery, such as the thermo-chemical treatment of plastics, the impact of environmental degradation on mechanical recycling, incineration and thermal unit design, and new options in biodegradable plastics. The book also introduces product development opportunities from waste materials and discusses the main processes and pathways of the conversion of polymeric materials to energy, fuel and chemicals. A particular focus is placed on industrial case studies and academic reviews, providing a practical emphasis that enables plastics practitioners involved in end-of-life aspects to employ these processes.

Final sections examine lifecycle and cost analysis of different plastic waste management processes, exploring the potential of various techniques in modelling, optimization and simulation of waste management options.

Introduces new pathways for the end-of-life treatment of plastics and polymers, including conversion to energy, fuel and other chemicals Compares different options to assist materials scientists, engineers and waste management practitioners to choose the most effective and sustainable option Covers the latest trends in the science and technology of polymer energy recovery

Dielectric Polymer Materials for High-Density Energy Storage begins by introducing the fundamentals and basic theories on the dielectric behavior of material. It then discusses key issues on the design and preparation of dielectric polymer materials with strong energy storage properties, including their characterization, properties and manipulation. The latest methods, techniques and applications are explained in detail regarding this rapidly developing area. The book will support the work of academic researchers and graduate students, as well as engineers and materials scientists working in industrial research and development.

In addition, it will be highly valuable to those directly involved in the fabrication of capacitors in industry, and to researchers across the areas of materials science, polymer science, materials chemistry, and nanomaterials.

Focuses on how to design and prepare dielectric polymer materials with strong energy storage properties Includes new techniques for adjusting the properties of dielectric polymer materials Presents a thorough review of the state-of-the-art in the field of dielectric polymer materials, providing valuable insights into potential avenues of development

Film Properties of Plastics and Elastomers, Fourth Edition is the only data handbook available on the engineering properties of commercial polymeric films. It details many physical, mechanical, optical, electrical and permeation properties within the context of specific test parameters, providing a ready reference for comparing materials in both the same and different families. Data is presented on the characteristics of major plastic and elastomer packaging materials, with the data in this edition updated to cover the five years since the previous edition was published.

The resin chapters each contain textual summary information, including category, general description, processing methods, applications, reliability, weatherability, and regulatory approval considerations for use in food and medical packaging.

Provides an essential reference tool for the workflow of engineers and scientists involved in the plastics industry Details a broad range of film properties, enabling engineers and professionals to compare and select materials Provides a life-of-product approach, with coverage ranging from properties and key concepts, through to production and applications

Polymer Hybrid Materials and Composites: Fundamentals and Applications presents an introduction to the principles behind polymeric hybrid materials, providing both theoretical and practical information on the synthesis and application of these materials. It documents the latest innovations, ranging from materials development and characterization of properties, to applications. Sections cover the route from laboratory to industry, providing practical, actionable guidance to assist the scaling up process for applications in areas including energy technology, solar cells, water purification, medical devices, optical and electrical devices, and more. It is an essential introduction to the emerging technologies that are made possible by these advanced materials.

Documents the latest innovations in the technology, thus enabling new applications Provides significant and detailed information on the engineering of hybrid materials for a wide range of areas, including energy, medical, and electronics, among others

Fluoropolymer Additives, Second Edition provides practical information on this group of additives, along with their applications and proper and safe handling. Chapters cover how commercial additives have been updated, providing a starting point where readers can begin the process of selection of additives for their own applications. Fully updated sections on applications provide the readers with a step-by-step description of the techniques necessary to select and incorporate these additives in various products. This book is the only practical guide available on the selection and use of fluoropolymer additives. It will help readers optimize existing fluoropolymer applications and implement new initiatives.

In recent years, the application of fluoropolymer additives has expanded significantly, with even the meaning of 'fluoropolymer additives' expanding from the relatively narrow definition of PTFE powder fillers to a wide variety of fluoropolymer elastomers used as processing aids for plastics processing techniques in extrusion, injection molding, and film blowing. In addition, fluropolymer additives are being increasingly used in inks, lubricants, and coatings.

Includes essential information and data that enables engineers and materials scientists to realize the full benefits of fluoropolymer additives as processing aids Written by authors Ebnesajjad and Morgan who take a highly practical approach to the subject that is based on real-world experience and case studies Updated to include the latest commercial additives and applications information for practicing engineers

Polylactide Foams: Fundamentals, Manufacturing, and Applications provides an introduction to the fundamental science behind plastic foams, polylactic acid) and polylactide foaming, giving designers tactics to replace traditional resins with sustainable and biodegradable materials. The book then delves deeper into the technology behind PLA foaming, such as PLA/gas mixture characteristics, solubility, interfacial tension behaviors and crystallization kinetics of various types of PLA and their compounds. The foaming behaviors and mechanisms of various types of PLA and PLA compounds are extensively analyzed and discussed through different manufacturing technologies, namely extrusion foaming, foam injection molding and bead foaming.

Interest in Poly(lactic acid) and PLA foams is extremely high - particularly as a potential replacement for styrenic resins - and the price of PLA resin is lower than ever before. This biopolymer has significant potential to improve the sustainability of the plastics industry. Polylactide Foams have a range of potential applications, such as in construction, packaging, insulation, biomedical scaffolds, and others. However, processing and performance of PLA are not at the same level as other non-biodegradable resins.

Introduces the concepts behind foaming, poly(lactic acid) and PLA foaming Supports further research and development in PLA foams by covering the state-of-the-art in different manufacturing and processing methods Provides practical guidance for materials scientists and engineers in industry looking to replace traditional polymer resins with a sustainable, biodegradable alternative

Polylactic Acid: A Practical Guide for the Processing, Manufacturing, and Applications of PLA, Second Edition, provides a practical guide for engineers and scientists working in PLA and on the development of emerging new products. The current market situation for PLA and biodegradable polymers is described, along with applications across a range of market sectors. In addition, the mechanical, chemical, thermal, rheology and degradation properties are included. Updates include new chapters covering various processing methods, as well as recycling methods, and additives and processing aids. New applications cover a range of products (including 3D Printing), and an environmental assessment, including regulatory aspects.

The book is not only a useful introduction to this topic, but also a practical, readily applicable reference book that will support decision-making in the plastics industry.

Presents an essential reference for engineers, scientists and product designers considering switching to a sustainable plastic Covers the properties, synthesis and polymerization of PLA, along with processing techniques involved in fabricating parts from this polymer Includes critical new chapters on processing, additives, recycling and environmental considerations relating to PLA

Chemical Resistance of Commodity 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 thermosets- plastics which are used in a range of applications. Specifically, the resistance data in this book covers the following materials, allyl, epoxy, unsaturated polyester resin, unsaturated polyurethane resin, vinyl ester resin, furan resin, polyaminobismaleimide, acrylics, polycyanurates and filled/reinforced thermosets. A huge range of exposure media are included, from aircraft fuel, to alcohol, corn syrup, hydrochloric acid and salt to silver acetate.

This book is a must-have reference for engineers and scientists designing and working with thermosets in environments where they come into contact with corrosive or reactive substances, from automotive and aerospace, to coatings, adhesives, electrical insulation, fittings and other applications.

Presents comprehensive, comparable and trustworthy chemical resistance data for thousands of exposure media on the properties of thermosets Includes coverage of ionomers, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC and other polyolefins and polyesters Provides a must have reference for engineers selecting materials for a range of application areas using thermosets, including aerospace, automotive, chemical process industries, coatings and adhesives

Reactive Polymers: Fundamentals and Applications: A Concise Guide to Industrial Polymers, Third Edition introduces engineers and scientists to a range of reactive polymers and then details their applications and performance benefits. Basic principles and industrial processes are described for each class of reactive resin (thermoset), as well as additives, the curing process, applications and uses. The initial chapters are devoted to individual resin types (e.g., epoxides, cyanacrylates), followed by more general chapters on topics such as reactive extrusion and dental applications. Injection molding of reactive polymers, radiation curing, thermosetting elastomers, and reactive extrusion equipment are covered as well.

The use of reactive polymers enables manufacturers to make chemical changes at a late stage in the production process, which, in turn, cause changes in performance and properties. Material selection and control of the reaction are essential to achieve optimal performance. Material new to this edition includes the most recent developments, applications and commercial products for each chemical class of thermosets, as well as sections on fabrication methods, reactive biopolymers, recycling of reactive polymers and case studies.

Covers the basics and most recent developments, including reactive biopolymers, recycling of reactive polymers, nanocomposites and fluorosilicones Offers an indispensable guide for engineers and advanced students alike Provides extensive literature and patent review Reflects a thorough review of all literature published in this area since 2014 Features revised and updated chapters to reflect the latest research in reactive polymers

The Effect of Sterilization Methods on Plastics and Elastomers, Fourth Edition brings together a wide range of essential data on the sterilization of plastics and elastomers, thus enabling engineers to make optimal material choices and design decisions. The data tables in this book enable engineers and scientists to select the right materials and sterilization method for a given product or application. The book is a unique and essential reference for anybody working with plastic materials that are likely to be exposed to sterilization methods, be it in medical device or packaging development, food packaging or other applications.

Presents essential data and practical guidance for engineers and scientists working with plastics in applications that require sterile packaging and equipment Updated edition removes obsolete data, updates manufacturers, verifies data accuracy, and adds new plastics materials for comparison Provides essential information and guidance for FDA submissions required for new medical devices

Applications of Fluoropolymer Films: Properties, Processing, and Products presents an overview of fluoropolymer films, manufacturing methods, typical properties, and commercial grades for each type of fluoropolymer film. The second part of the book is uniquely focused on the applications of fluoropolymer films, with detailed information on their use in cutting-edge items across major industries, including aerospace and automotive, architectural, chemical processing, construction, consumer products, electronics, food packaging, pharmaceuticals and solar energy.

Presents a focused approach on the practical applications of fluoropolymer films, supporting their use in state-of-the-art products across a range of industries Contains detailed coverage of manufacturing methods, properties and commercial grades for fluoropolymer films Unlocks the potential of the advanced properties offered by fluoropolymer films

Recycling of Flexible Plastic Packaging presents thorough and detailed information on the management and recycling of flexible plastic packaging, focusing on the latest actual/potential methods and techniques and offering actionable solutions that minimize waste and increase product efficiency and sustainability. Sections cover flexible plastic packaging and its benefits, applications and challenges. This is followed by in-depth coverage of the materials, types and forms of flexible packaging. Other key discussions cover collection and pre-treatment, volume reduction, separation from other materials, chemical recycling, post-processing and reuse, current regulations and policies, economic aspects and immediate trends.

This information will be highly valuable to engineers, scientists and R&D professionals across industry. In addition, it will also be of great interest to researchers in academia, those in government, or anyone with an interest in recycling who is looking to further advance and implement recycling methods for flexible plastic packaging.

Presents state-of-the-art methods and technologies regarding the processing of flexible plastic packaging waste Addresses the challenges currently associated with both waste management and available recycling methods Opens the door to innovation, supporting improved recycling methods, manufacturing efficiency and industrial sustainability

The Effect of UV Light and Weather on Plastics and Elastomers, Fourth Edition, provides critical data on the effect of UV light and weathering on plastics and elastomers, enabling engineers, designers and R&D professionals to select the right materials when developing plastics products for a range of industries and applications. This information will also support academic researchers and scientists in developing polymeric materials for advanced applications.

Provides vital data on the effects of weather and UV light exposure on plastics and elastomers Offers practical guidance for engineers and scientists working with plastics for outdoor applications Expanded revision includes the latest data, polymer classes and newly available materials, including bio-based polymers and plastics for 3D printing

Automotive Plastics and Composites: Materials and Processing is an essential guide to the use of plastic and polymer composites in automotive applications, whether in the exterior, interior, under-the-hood, or powertrain, with a focus on�materials, properties, and processing.

The book begins by introducing plastics and polymers for the automotive industry, discussing polymer materials and structures, mechanical, chemical, and physical properties, rheology, and flow analysis. In the second part of the book, each chapter is dedicated to a category of material, and considers the manufacture, processing, properties, shrinkage, and possible applications, in each case. Two chapters on polymer processing provide detailed information on both closed-mold and open-mold�processing. The final chapters explain other key aspects, such as recycling and sustainability, design principles, tooling, and future trends.

This book is an ideal reference for plastics engineers, product designers, technicians, scientists, and R&D professionals who are�looking to develop materials, components, or products for automotive applications. The book�also intends to guide researchers, scientists, and advanced students in plastics engineering, polymer processing, and materials science and engineering.

Analyzes mechanical, chemical, physical, and thermal properties, enabling the reader to select the appropriate material for specific applications Explains polymer processing, with thorough coverage of operations across both closed-mold and open-mold processing Provides systematic coverage of materials, including commodity and engineering thermoplastics, bio-based plastics, thermosets, composites, elastomeric polymers, and 3D-printed plastics

Polymers for 3D Printing: Methods, Properties, and Characteristics provides a detailed guide to polymers for 3D printing, bridging the gap between research and practice, and enabling engineers, technicians and designers to utilise and implement this technology for their products or applications. Presents the properties, attributes, and potential applications of the polymeric materials used in 3D printing Analyses and compares the available methods for 3D printing, with an emphasis on the latest cutting-edge technologies Enables the reader to select and implement the correct 3D printing technology, according to polymer properties or product requirements

Service Life Prediction of Polymers and Coatings: Enhanced Methods focuses on the cutting-edge science behind how plastic and polymer materials are modified by the effects of weathering, offering the latest advances in service life prediction methods. The chapters have been developed by experts based on their contributions as part of the 7th Service Life Prediction Meeting. The volume begins with the premise that it is possible to produce and design life predictions, also looking at how these predictions can be used. Subsequent chapters present new developments in service life prediction, examining the most important considerations in SLP design, timescales, and other major issues.

The book also considers the current state of the field in terms of both accomplishments and areas that require significant research going forward. This is a highly valuable reference for engineers, designers, technicians, scientists and R&D professionals who are looking to develop materials, components or products for outdoor applications across a range of industries. The book also supports academic researchers, scientists and advanced students with an interest in service life, the effects of weathering, material degradation, failure analysis, or sustainability across the fields of plastics engineering, polymer science and materials science.

Presents novel prediction techniques for plastics and polymers exposed to outdoor weathering Provides a consensus roadmap on the scientific barriers related to a validated, predictive model for the response of polymer and plastics to outdoor exposure Enables the reader to assess and compare different methods and approaches to service life prediction

Introduction to Fluoropolymers, Second Edition, provides a comprehensive overview of the history, principles, properties, processing and applications of fluoropolymers, supporting their development and utilization in high-performance applications, components, and products. This second edition has been updated and expanded to include new in-depth chapters on manufacturing and applications of PTFE and melt processible fluoropolymers.

The book begins by demonstrating the role of fluoropolymers in everyday life, before introducing the history and basic principles of fluoropolymers. This is followed by detailed coverage of the main fluoropolymer types. Properties and applications are illustrated by real-world examples as diverse as waterproof clothing, vascular grafts and coatings for aircraft interiors. The different applications of fluoropolymers show the benefits of a group of materials that are highly water-repellant and flame-retardant, with unrivalled lubrication properties and a high level of biocompatibility. Health and safety and environmental aspects are also covered throughout the book, with a final chapter examining safety, disposal, and recycling in detail.

This book is an essential resource for anyone looking to understand or use fluoropolymer materials in their products. This includes engineers, product designers, manufacturers, scientists, researchers, and other professionals, across industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical devices, food and beverages, high performance apparel, oil and gas, renewable energy, solar photovoltaics, electronics and semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and chemical processing. This is also a valuable introductory guide for academic researchers and advanced students in plastics engineering, polymer science, and materials science.

Introduces and demystifies fluoropolymers for a wide audience of engineers, designers, professionals, and researchers, across industries and disciplines Covers a broad range of materials, including polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinyl fluoride (PVF), vinylidene fluoride polymers, fluoroelastomers, and more Focuses on properties, processing methods and advanced industrial applications of fluoropolymers

Applications of Polyurethanes in Medical Devices provides detailed coverage of polyurethane (PU) chemistry, processing and preparation for performant medical devices. Polyurethanes have found many uses in medical applications, due to their biocompatibility, biostability, physical properties, surface polarity, and the ability to suit the field of application. This book enables the reader to understand polyurethane and how this valuable material can be used in medical devices. Sections cover the chemistry, structure, and properties of polyurethane, with in-depth sections examining raw materials, reaction chemistry, synthesis techniques, reaction kinetics, material microstructure, and structure-property relationships.

Subsequent chapters demonstrate how polyurethane can be utilized in medical device applications, examining biological properties, rheology and processing before methodical coverage explains how polyurethane may be used for each category of medical device. Finally, future directions, and safety and environmental aspects, are covered.

Bridges the gap between polyurethane chemistry, processing and preparation for cutting-edge medical device applications Includes in-depth coverage of polyurethane, covering raw materials, chemistry, synthesis techniques, reaction kinetics, properties and microstructural analysis Takes a valuable and practical approach, addressing manufacturing issues and using testing and modeling to solve problems encountered in processing

The Effect of Radiation on Properties of Polymers examines the effects of radiation on plastics and elastomers. Polymers are required in products or parts for a range of cutting-edge applications that are exposed to radiation, in areas such as space, medicine, and radiation processing. This book focuses on the effects of radiation exposure within that environment, providing in-depth data coverage organized by category of polymer. Aspects such as radiation impact on mechanical and thermal properties, including glass transition and heat deflection temperatures, are described, demonstrating how changes in these properties affect the performance of plastic or elastomer parts.

The effect of radiation on electrical properties is also included. Supporting introductory chapters explain the key concepts of radiation, including the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of plastics and elastomers. This is a vital resource for plastics engineers, product designers, and R&D professionals, working on products or parts for radioactive environments, as well as engineers and scientists in the medical, nuclear, and radiation processing industries. The book also supports researchers and scientists in plastics engineering, polymer processing and properties, polymer and coatings chemistry, materials science, and radiation.

Brings together highly valuable data on the effect of radiation on the properties of polymers and elastomers Enables the reader to compare properties and to select the best possible materials for specific applications Supported by detailed explanations and analysis, ensuring that the reader understands how to interpret and utilize the data

Design and Manufacturing of Plastics Products: Integrating Conventional Methods and Innovative Technologies brings together detailed information on design, materials selection, properties, manufacturing, and the performance of plastic products, incorporating the utilization of the latest novel techniques and additive manufacturing technologies. The book integrates the design of molded products and conventional manufacturing and molding techniques with recent additive manufacturing techniques to produce performant products and cost-effective tools. Key areas of innovation are explained in detail, including hybrid molds, the integration of processing options with product properties and performance, and sustainability factors such as eco-design strategies, recycling, and lifecycle assessment.

Other sections cover the development of plastics products, including design methodologies, design solutions specific to plastics, and design for re-use, as well as manufacturing and performance, with an emphasis on thermoplastic molding techniques, recent advances on plastics tooling, and the appraisal of the influence of processing options on product performance. This is a valuable resource to plastics engineers, design engineers, mold makers, and product or part designers across industries. It will also be of interest to researchers and advanced students in plastics engineering, polymer science, additive manufacturing and mechanical engineering.

Offers a thorough grounding in plastics part design, thermoplastic material selection, properties, manufacture and performance of plastic parts Presents the latest advances, including the integration of additive manufacturing in the plastics product development cycle, hybrid molds, and lifecycle and recycling considerations Enables the reader to utilize traditional methods alongside cutting-edge technologies in the production of performant plastic products and parts