Smart Polymers: Basics and Applications

Smart materials have been produced by conceiving of the idea of materials/systems having a fourth dimension. Efforts are being made to develop materials with enhanced performance. This book presents the basics of smart polymers and describes their current and future applications, such as photoresponsive polymers, vibration damping, thermal and electrochemical energy, sensing at trace level, biotechnology, and smart paints. It will be of particular interest to researchers, postgraduates, and industry experts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Smart materials have emerged by envisioning materials and systems possessing a fourth dimension. In response to advancements in instrumentation, concerted efforts are underway to create materials that exhibit enhanced performance. Nature showcases the reversible action of stimulus-responsive materials, sparking interest in their potential for research and industrial applications. However, the challenge lies in seamlessly integrating these applications with environmental consciousness.

This comprehensive book delves into the fundamentals of smart polymers, providing a detailed account of their current and emerging applications. Unlike other texts in the field, it delves deeper into the intelligent behavior of polymer materials, encompassing areas such as vibration damping, thermal and electrochemical energy, sensing at the trace level, biotechnology, and more. The book is organized into 14 chapters, each covering diverse topics:

• Photoresponsive polymers that can be controlled by specific frequencies of light
• Designing polymers for effective vibration damping
• Smart manipulation of hydrophobic and super-hydrophobic polymers
• Biopolymers, including hydrogels for innovative applications in drug delivery and other fields
• Smart paints that exhibit dynamic properties and self-healing capabilities
• Self-healing and shape memory polymers that restore their original form after deformation
• Holography for secure data storage
• Phase change polymers and solid polymer electrolytes for efficient thermal and electrochemical energy storage
• Molecular imprinting polymers for precise sub-ppm sensing and removal of unwanted materials
• Smart textiles, including advanced materials with intelligent functionalities

This book is a valuable resource for researchers, postgraduates, and industry professionals seeking to gain a comprehensive understanding of smart polymers and their potential applications. It offers an extensive introduction to the basics of smart polymers, making it suitable for beginners as well. With its comprehensive coverage and in-depth analysis, this book is poised to become a staple in the field of polymer science and engineering.

Dimension: 280 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367480776