Carraher's Polymer Chemistry, Ninth Edition

Most of the advancements in communication, computers, medicine, and air and water purity are linked to macromolecules and a fundamental understanding of the principles that govern their behavior. These fundamentals are explored in Carraher's Polymer Chemistry, Ninth Edition. Continuing the tradition of previous volumes, the latest edition provides a well-rounded presentation of the principles and applications of polymers. With an emphasis on the environment and green chemistry and materials, this edition offers detailed coverage of natural and synthetic giant molecules, inorganic and organic polymers, biomacromolecules, elastomers, adhesives, coatings, fibers, plastics, blends, caulks, composites, and ceramics.

Using simple fundamentals, this book demonstrates how the basic principles of one polymer group can be applied to all of the other groups. It covers reactivities, synthesis and polymerization reactions, techniques for characterization and analysis, energy absorption and thermal conductivity, physical and optical properties, and practical applications. This edition includes updated techniques, new sections on a number of copolymers, expanded emphasis on nanotechnology and nanomaterials, and increased coverage of topics including carbon nanotubes, tapes and glues, photochemistry, and more.

With topics presented so students can understand polymer science even if certain parts of the text are skipped, this book is suitable as an undergraduate as well as an introductory graduate-level text. The author begins most chapters with theory followed by application, and generally addresses the most critical topics first. He provides all of the elements of an introductory text, covering synthesis, properties, applications, and characterization. This user-friendly book also contains definitions, learning objectives, questions, and additional reading in each chapter.

Charles E. Carraher, Jr., is a professor of chemistry and biochemistry at Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, and associate director of the Florida Center for Environmental Studies, Palm Beach Gardens. He was recognized as the most outstanding chemist in the southeastern United States (1992) by the American Chemical Society (ACS). Dr. Carraher currently serves as co-chair of the ACS's Joint Polymer Education Committee, on the board of the Intersocietal Polymer Education Committee, and has been a member of the ACS's Committee on Professional Training (CPT). He also serves as an associate editor of the Journal of Polymeric Materials and on the board of the Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials and the Journal Chinese Advanced Materials Society. The author or co-editor of about 70 books and over 1,000 articles, Dr. Carraher has chaired/co-chaired numerous national and international symposia. His research has led to the synthesis of over 75 new families of polymers.