Thermal Degradation of Polymeric Materials

Thermal Degradation of Polymeric Materials, Second Edition, offers a wealth of information for polymer researchers and processors requiring an understanding of the implications of thermal degradation on materials and product performance. Understanding the thermal degradation of polymers is of paramount importance for developing successful approaches to polymer processing and higher-temperature applications. Controlling degradation requires understanding of many different phenomena, including chemical mechanisms, the influence of polymer morphology, the complexities of oxidation chemistry, and the effects of stabilizers, fillers and other additives. The book begins by presenting thermal degradation mechanisms and kinetics, as well as describing the use of various techniques, such as thermogravimetry in combination with mass spectroscopy and infrared spectrometry, to investigate thermal decomposition routes. These methods have proved useful for defining suitable processing conditions for polymers, and for establishing service guidelines for their application. This is followed by in-depth sections covering polymers and copolymers by category, 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. This Second Edition has been thoroughly updated and expanded, to include new in-depth sections on conducting polymers, organic-inorganic hybrid materials, polymer nanocomposites, and biocomposites, as well as the latest advances, such as recent developments in thermal analysis techniques used for polymer degradation tests. This is an essential resource for researchers and advanced students in polymer science, materials chemistry, chemical engineering, plastics engineering, and materials engineering, as well as engineers, R&D professionals, and scientists working with polymeric materials for advanced applications, including in construction, automobiles, aerospace, biotechnology, pharmaceutics, packaging, and electronics. Explains mechanisms of polymer degradation making it possible to understand and to predict material behavior at elevated temperaturesOffers systematic coverage of each polymer group, supported by data, detailed explanations and critical analysisInvestigates thermal decomposition routes of new materials, such as organic-inorganic hybrid materials and polymer nanocomposites