As the title suggests, this monograph features the physicochemical behavior and supramolecular organization of polymers. The book consists of four chapters dealing with solution properties, viscoelastic behavior, physicochemical aspects at interfaces and supramolecular structures of polymeric systems. The classical treatment of the physicochemical behavior of polymers is presented in such a way that the book will meet the requirements of a beginner in the study of polymeric systems in solution and in some aspects of the solid state, as well as those of the experienced researcher in other types of materials. Physicochemical behavior and Supramolecular Organization of Polymers is ultimately, a contribution to the chemistry of materials; it is a powerful reference tool for students and scientists working both in polymer chemistry, polymer physics and materials science.
Polymer Science and Innovative Applications: Materials, Techniques, and Future Developments introduces the science of innovative polymers and composites, their analysis via experimental techniques and simulation, and their utilization in a variety of application areas. This approach helps to unlock the potential of new materials for product design and other uses. The book also examines the role that these applications play in the human world, from pollution and health impacts, to their potential to make a positive contribution in areas including environmental remediation, medicine and healthcare, and renewable energy. Advantages, disadvantages, possibilities, and challenges relating to the utilization of polymers in human society are included. - Presents the latest advanced applications of polymers and their composites and identifies key areas for future development - Introduces the simulation methods and experimental techniques involved in the modification of polymer properties, supported by clear and detailed images and diagrams - Supports an interdisciplinary approach, enabling readers across different fields to harness the power of new materials for innovative applications
This book highlights current challenges and developments in waste material recycling in the framework of a circular economy. The increase in the standard of living has resulted in the large consumption of several materials, mainly polymers. Therefore the problem of waste recycling, specifically polymer recycling, in an environmentally friendly way is more urgent than ever. Nowadays, more specialized recycling methods are required to manage a wide variety of wastes. Over fourteen chapters in three sections, this book addresses such topics as chemical recycling techniques, recycling of polyethylene, denim production and recycling, valorization of waste materials, urban mining, the circular economy, and much more.
Polymer Nanocomposites for Energy Applications Explore the science of polymer nanocomposites and their practical use in energy applications In Polymer Nanocomposites for Energy Applications, a team of distinguished researchers delivers a comprehensive review of the synthesis and characterization of polymer nanocomposites, as well as their applications in the field of energy. Succinct and insightful, the book explores the storage of electrical, magnetic, and thermal energy and hydrogen. It also discusses energy generation by polymer-based solar cells. Finally, the authors present a life cycle analysis of polymer nanocomposites for energy applications and provide four real-world case studies where these materials have been successfully used. Readers will also find: Thorough introductions to the origins and synthesis of polymer materials In-depth discussions of the characterization of polymeric materials, including UV-visible spectroscopy Comprehensive explorations of a wide variety of polymer material applications, including in biotechnology and for soil remediation Fulsome presentations of polymer nanocomposites and their use in energy storage systems Perfect for materials and engineering scientists and polymer chemists, Polymer Nanocomposites for Energy Applications will also earn a place in the libraries of professionals working in the chemical industry.
Starch Industries: Processes and Innovative Products in Food and Non-Food Uses is the third volume of the "Underground Starchy Crops of South American Origin" book series. Organized in five volumes, this series brings information on the applied level of producing and using starch from a range of plants grown in tropical and subtropical areas that have South American origin. This book presents starch extraction and its food and non-food uses, using large and small industrial processes. The methods and equipment of these technologies are analyzed in detail, so that it is easy to be understood by a diverse public, increasing the visibility of the great potential of use of starchy tubers, rhizomes and roots, and improving processing options. Specifically in processing cassava, which is the only cultivation done on a commercial scale in South America, it is possible to extract starch in industries equipped with equipment, comparable to that of China, Thailand and Vietnam. This title also explores the extraction of smaller starches, such as canna starch, sweet potato and arrowroot from South China, which does not sell starch but transforms it into food paste in small extruders. Edited by a team of experts with a solid background on starch extraction research, the books are aimed at all those involved in research and development, new technological processes, quality control and legislation in the field of starch. - Includes information on modified starches, considered the most valued products in the commercial starch portfolio - Thoroughly explores small extractors of canna starch, sweet potato and arrowroot from South China, which does not sell starch but transforms it into food paste in small extruders - Describes the small, cassava starch fermentation companies that are found in almost all South American countries
Sulfur is an essential element for all living organisms and is required by algae, plants, fungi, animals, and humans for growth and development. It is present in a variety of biomolecules involved in many biological functions, including the maintenance of cell redox homeostasis, defense, and detoxifying processes. The alteration of sulfur compound metabolism may lead to human diseases as well as to plant and animal pathologies. The marine environment, which is characterized by a high biodiversity of species and a great chemical diversity, represents a great potential source of bioactive sulfur molecules. A broad range of biologically active sulfur compounds with unique structures and pharmacological properties have been reported to occur in marine organisms, from amino acids to different sulfated derivatives. Great attention is also focused on sulfur metabolites in the marine microbial world in relation to the global sulfur cycle. The aim of this Special Issue is to present existing knowledge and recent studies on sulfur-containing marine bioactive compounds in different biological systems. Attention is also focused on metabolites active at the ecological level.
Sustainability, defined as the way to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future ones to meet their own, is one of the main challenges of modern society. Within this context, chemistry plays a significant role, and solvent nature as well as its environmental impact are pivotal issues frequently addressed. Ionic liquids, i.e. organic salts that have melting temperatures lower than 100 °C, have been frequently hailed as alternatives to conventional organic solvents. Their greenness has been mainly ascribed to their low vapor pressure and flammability. However, in addition to this, their high solubilizing ability and low miscibility with conventional organic solvents frequently allow for reducing the amount used, as well as for their recycling. Ionic liquids, especially the ones featured by aromatic cations, are frequently described as “polymeric supramolecular fluids” constructed through the establishment of feeble but cooperative supramolecular interactions like Coulomb and π-π interactions, as well as hydrogen bonds. In general, ionic liquids are also indicated as “designer solvents” as it is possible to tailor their features to specific applications by simply modifying their cation or anion structure. In this way, small changes in the ion’s structure can give rise to solvents showing very different properties. The above premises widely justify the growing interest in the properties and applications of ionic liquids, seen in recent literature (according to Scopus, more than 27,000 papers published in the last five years have “ionic liquids” as a keyword). Thanks to their properties, they have been variously used as solvent media, solvents for the obtainment of gel phases, components in the building of dye-sensitized solar cells, media for the preparation of thermochromic materials, etc. This Research Topic aims to present how structural features can determine not only the properties of ionic liquids, but also their possible employment. In this latter case, the interest arises from their ability to affect the outcome of a given reaction in terms of rate, yield, and nature of the products obtained for general use in the field of materials chemistry. This article collection is dedicated to Prof. Kenneth R. Seddon for his outstanding contribution to the formation and development of the ionic liquids community.
Self-healing is a well-known phenomenon in nature: a broken bone merges after some time and if skin is damaged, the wound will stop bleeding and heals again. This concept can be mimicked in order to create polymeric materials with the ability to regenerate after they have suffered degradation or wear. Already realized applications are used in aerospace engineering, and current research in this fascinating field shows how different self-healing mechanisms proven successful by nature can be adapted to produce even more versatile materials. The book combines the knowledge of an international panel of experts in the field and provides the reader with chemical and physical concepts for self-healing polymers, including aspects of biomimetic processes of healing in nature. It shows how to design self-healing polymers and explains the dynamics in these systems. Different self-healing concepts such as encapsulated systems and supramolecular systems are detailed. Chapters on analysis and friction detection in self-healing polymers and on applications round off the book.
