An Introduction To Polymer Physics

No previous knowledge of polymers is assumed in this book which provides a general introduction to the physics of solid polymers. The book covers a wide range of topics within the field of polymer physics, beginning with a brief history of the development of synthetic polymers and an overview of the methods of polymerisation and processing. In the following chapter, David Bower describes important experimental techniques used in the study of polymers. The main part of the book, however, is devoted to the structure and properties of solid polymers, including blends, copolymers and liquid-crystal polymers. With an approach appropriate for advanced undergraduate and graduate students of physics, materials science and chemistry, the book includes many worked examples and problems with solutions. It will provide a firm foundation for the study of the physics of solid polymers.