The ability to combine existing polymers into new compositions with commercializable properties offers the advantage of reduced research and development expense compared to the development of new monomers and polymers to yield a particular property profile. Additionally, scale-up and commercialization of these materials entails much less capital investment. Moreover, property profiles which may not be feasible with a single polymer can often be achieved through polymer blending. It is no surprise that polymer blends represent a leading field of research in polymer science. The overview provided by this volume can be utilized as a reference book or as a textbook for a graduate level course on polymer blends.

From the Preface: “...While a number of excellent books exist on polymer blends, it is hoped that this book provides a broad overview of the field with seminal references as well as recent references of interest. Many of the available books on polymer blends are edited texts offering detail in the subject areas covered. Several excellent authored texts are also available covering specific aspects of polymer blend technology although generally not as comprehensive and also not recent. Hopefully, this author can cover the entire field and update the many recent contributions to the subject...”

Target Audience: Researchers, technologists, and upper-level students involved in polymer science.

Table of Contents:

Introduction

Fundamentals of Polymer Blends

Compatibilization Methods

Types of Polymer Blends

Characterization of Polymer Blends

Properties of Polymer Blends

Commercial Applications of Polymer Blends

Emerging Technology Involving Polymer Blends

Appendices

Index