Multiphase Polylactide Blends: Toward a Sustainable and Green Environment guides the reader through fundamentals, science, preparation, and key areas of innovation in polylactide (PLA) blends. Bio-based polymers, and notably PLA, have not only gained increasing interest as a more sustainable alternative but also bring challenges in terms of mechanical, rheological, thermal and physical properties, processability, shapability, and foamability. The use of blends looks to address these, with the development of new types of economically viable and environmentally friendly systems. This is a valuable book for academic researchers, scientists, and graduate students across bio-based polymers, polymer science, chemistry, and materials science, as well as engineers, R&D professionals, and all those in industry with interest in PLA-based blends, biopolymers, and sustainable materials and products. More specifically, the first three chapters of this book overview the fundamentals of thermoplastic polymers, polymer blends, and structure and properties of PLA. These chapters could technically be used as a valuable textbook on the noted topics. The rest of the chapters inclusively study the fundamentals, investigations, and achievements in PLA-based blends with various types of polymers. These include miscible blends of poly L-lactide and poly D-lactide, binary immiscible/miscible blends of PLA with other thermoplastics and elastomers, PLA-based ternary blends and blend nanocomposites, as well as PLA-based blend foams. Overall, this book provides a thorough and critical overview of the state of the art in PLA-based blends, including significant past and recent advances, with the aim of supporting and shaping further research and industrial application of these materials for the development of a green and sustainable future. - Overviews the fundamentals of thermoplastic polymers, polymer blends, and the structure and properties of PLA. - Provides detailed coverage of the fundamentals and science of PLA blends, including phase miscibility, thermal and mechanical properties, interface and rheological properties, the use of compatibilizers, and phase morphological analysis. - Offers a thorough critical overview of the state of the art in processing and development of PLA-based blends, addressing key challenges and future perspectives. - Covers the latest advances, including PLA-based ternary blends, blend nanocomposites, and PLA-based blend microcellular foams.

Crystallization in Multiphase Polymer Systems is the first book that explains in depth the crystallization behavior of multiphase polymer systems. Polymeric structures are more complex in nature than other material structures due to their significant structural disorder. Most of the polymers used today are semicrystalline, and the subject of crystallization is still one of the major issues relating to the performance of semicrystalline polymers in the modern polymer industry. The study of the crystallization processes, crystalline morphologies and other phase transitions is of great significance for the understanding the structure-property relationships of these systems. Crystallization in block copolymers, miscible blends, immiscible blends, and polymer composites and nanocomposites is thoroughly discussed and represents the core coverage of this book. The book critically analyzes the kinetics of nucleation and growth process of the crystalline phases in multi-component polymer systems in different length scales, from macro to nanoscale. Various experimental techniques used for the characterization of polymer crystallization process are discussed. Written by experts in the field of polymer crystallization, this book is a unique source and enables professionals and students to understand crystallization behavior in multiphase polymer systems such as block copolymers, polymer blends, composites and nanocomposites. - Covers crystallization of multiphase polymer systems, including copolymers, blends and nanocomposites - Features comprehensive, detailed information about the basic research, practical applications and new developments for these polymeric materials - Analyzes the kinetics of nucleation and growth process of the crystalline phases in multi-component polymer systems in different length scales, from macro to nanoscale

Biocomposites: Design and Mechanical Performance describes recent research on cost-effective ways to improve the mechanical toughness and durability of biocomposites, while also reducing their weight. Beginning with an introduction to commercially competitive natural fiber-based composites, chapters then move on to explore the mechanical properties of a wide range of biocomposite materials, including polylactic, polyethylene, polycarbonate, oil palm, natural fiber epoxy, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polyvinyl acetate, polyurethane, starch, flax, poly (propylene carbonate)-based biocomposites, and biocomposites from biodegradable polymer blends, natural fibers, and green plastics, giving the reader a deep understanding of the potential of these materials. - Describes recent research to improve the mechanical properties and performance of a wide range of biocomposite materials - Explores the mechanical properties of a wide range of biocomposite materials, including polylactic, polyethylene, polycarbonate, oil palm, natural fiber epoxy, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polyvinyl acetate, and polyurethane - Evaluates the potential of biocomposites as substitutes for petroleum-based plastics in industries such as packaging, electronic, automotive, aerospace and construction - Includes contributions from leading experts in this field

POLY(LACTIC ACID) The second edition of a key reference, fully updated to reflect new research and applications Poly(lactic acid)s – PLAs, biodegradable polymers derived from lactic acid, have become vital components of a sustainable society. Eco-friendly PLA polymers are used in numerous industrial applications ranging from packaging to medical implants and to wastewater treatment. The global PLA market is predicted to expand significantly over the next decade due to increasing demand for compostable and recyclable materials produced from renewable resources. Poly(lactic acid) Synthesis, Structures, Properties, Processing, Applications, and End of Life provides comprehensive coverage of the basic chemistry, production, and industrial use of PLA. Contributions from an international panel of experts review specific processing methods, characterization techniques, and various applications in medicine, textiles, packaging, and environmental engineering. Now in its second edition, this fully up-to-date volume features new and revised chapters on 3D printing, the mechanical and chemical recycling of PLA, PLA stereocomplex crystals, PLA composites, the environmental footprint of PLA, and more. Highlights the biodegradability, recycling, and sustainability benefits of PLA Describes processing and conversion technologies for PLA, such as injection molding, extrusion, blending, and thermoforming Covers various aspects of lactic acid/lactide monomers, including physicochemical properties and production Examines different condensation reactions and modification strategies for enhanced polymerization of PLA Discusses the thermal, rheological, and mechanical properties of PLA Addresses degradation and environmental issues of PLA, including photodegradation, radiolysis, hydrolytic degradation, biodegradation, and life cycle assessment Poly(lactic acid) Synthesis, Structures, Properties, Processing, Applications, and End of Life, Second Edition remains essential reading for polymer engineers, materials scientists, polymer chemists, chemical engineers, industry professionals using PLA, and scientists and advanced student engineers interested in biodegradable plastics.

This book provides the latest technical information on sustainable materials that are feedstocks for additive manufacturing (AM). Topics covered include an up-to-date and extensive overview of raw materials, their chemistry, and functional properties of their commercial versions; a description of the relevant AM processes, products, applications, advantages, and limitations; prices and market data; and a forecast of sustainable materials used in AM, their properties, and applications in the near future. Data included are relative to current commercial products and are presented in easy-to-read tables and charts. Features Highlights up-to-date information and data of actual commercial materials Offers a broad survey of state-of the-art information Forecasts future materials, applications, and areas of R&D Contains simple language, explains technical terms, and minimizes technical lingo Includes over 200 tables, nearly 200 figures, and more than 1,700 references to technical publications, mostly very recent Handbook of Sustainable Polymers for Additive Manufacturing appeals to a diverse audience of students and academic, technical, and business professionals in the fields of materials science and mechanical, chemical, and manufacturing engineering.

Undoubtedly the applications of polymers are rapidly evolving. Technology is continually changing and quickly advancing as polymers are needed to solve a variety of day-to-day challenges leading to improvements in quality of life. The Encyclopedia of Polymer Applications presents state-of-the-art research and development on the applications of polymers. This groundbreaking work provides important overviews to help stimulate further advancements in all areas of polymers. This comprehensive multi-volume reference includes articles contributed from a diverse and global team of renowned researchers. It offers a broad-based perspective on a multitude of topics in a variety of applications, as well as detailed research information, figures, tables, illustrations, and references. The encyclopedia provides introductions, classifications, properties, selection, types, technologies, shelf-life, recycling, testing and applications for each of the entries where applicable. It features critical content for both novices and experts including, engineers, scientists (polymer scientists, materials scientists, biomedical engineers, macromolecular chemists), researchers, and students, as well as interested readers in academia, industry, and research institutions.

Sustainable Polylactide-Based Blends provides a critical overview of the state-of-the-art in polylactide (PLA)-based blends, addressing the latest advances, innovative processing techniques and fundamental issues that persist in the field. Sections cover the fundamentals of sustainable polymeric materials, polylactide and polymer blends, current and upcoming processing technologies, structure and morphology characterization techniques for PLA and PLA-based blends, and the processing, morphology development, and properties of polylactide-based blends. Final chapters focus on current and future applications, market potential, key challenges and future outlooks. Throughout the book, theoretical modeling of immiscible polymer blends helps to establish structure-property relationships in various PLA-based polymer blends. With in-depth coverage of fundamentals and processing techniques, the book aims to support the selection of each processing method, along with an understanding of surface chemistry to achieve improved compatibility between phases. - Explains fundamental aspects of polylactide-based blends, including characterization methods and property measurement techniques - Offers comprehensive and detailed coverage of processing, morphology and properties, all organized by blend material - Analyzes novel methods and addresses challenges associated with PLA-based blends, with a focus on applications and market potential

Nanotechnology for Food Packaging: Materials, Processing Technologies, and Safety Issues showcases the latest research in the use of nanotechnology in food packaging, providing an in-depth and interdisciplinary overview of the field. Nanoscale advances in materials science, processing technology and analytical techniques have led to the introduction of new, cheaper and safer packaging techniques. Simultaneously, the increasing use of renewable nanomaterials has made food packaging more sustainable. Chapters provide a comprehensive review on materials used, their structure–function relationship, and new processing technologies for the application and production of nanotechnology-based packaging materials. In addition, the book discusses the use of functional materials for the development of active, smart and intelligent packaging, possible migration and toxicity of nanomaterials for foods and regulatory aspects, and commercial applications. - Provides detailed information on the use of nanomaterials and methodologies in food packaging, possible applications and regulatory barriers to commercialization - Presents an interdisciplinary approach that brings together materials science, bioscience, and the industrial and regulatory aspects of the creation and uses of food packaging - Helps those undertaking research and development in food packaging gain a cogent understanding on how nanotechnology is leading to the emergence of new packaging technologies

The book presents new advances in the field of manufacturing technologies. It focuses on the design and engineering of manufacturing processes; additive manufacturing and reverse engineering; assembly, disassembly and circular processes; system simulation, optimization and digital manufacturing; and materials processing technology. Keywords: Human Robot, Short Term Production Planning, Thermoplastic Composite Components, Compostable Materials, Diffusion Bonding, Superplastic Forming, Hardening Technologies, Physical Simulation Tests, Numerical Model, Dissimilar Material Welding, Additive Manufacturing, Laser Powder Bed Fusion, Fused Deposition Modeling, Laser Sintering, Fused Filament Fabrication, Manufacturing System Laser Welding, Wind Blades, Bandsaw Machine, PVC Tubes, Submerged Arc Welding, Multi-Layered Coatings, Cryogenics, Metal Piercing, Picosecond Laser Processing, Carbon Nanotube; Fiber Reinforced Composites, Tools With Complex Geometry. Carbon/Epoxy Composite, Rheological Additives, PP/flax Fibers, Human Well-being, Extruded Rods & Pipes, Laser Welding, E-mobility, WAAM Process, Glass Fiber.

This unique multidisciplinary 8-volume set focuses on the emerging issues concerning synthesis, characterization, design, manufacturing and various other aspects of composite materials from renewable materials and provides a shared platform for both researcher and industry. The Handbook of Composites from Renewable Materials comprises a set of 8 individual volumes that brings an interdisciplinary perspective to accomplish a more detailed understanding of the interplay between the synthesis, structure, characterization, processing, applications and performance of these advanced materials. The Handbook comprises 169 chapters from world renowned experts covering a multitude of natural polymers/ reinforcement/ fillers and biodegradable materials. Volume 5 is solely focused on 'Biodegradable Materials'. Some of the important topics include but not limited to: Rice husk and its composites; biodegradable composites based on thermoplastic starch and talc nanoparticles; recent progress in biocomposites of biodegradable polymer; microbial polyesters: production and market; biodegradable and bioabsorbable materials for osteosynthesis applications; biodegradable polymers in tissue engineering; composites based on hydroxyapatite and biodegradable polylactide; biodegradable composites; development of membranes from biobased materials and their applications; green biodegradable composites based on natural fibers; fully biodegradable all-cellulose composites; natural fiber composites with bioderivative and/or degradable polymers; synthetic biodegradable polymers for bone tissue engineering; polysaccharides as green biodegradable platforms for building up electroactive composite materials; biodegradable polymer blends and composites from seaweeds; biocomposites scaffolds derived from renewable resources for bone tissue repair; pectin-based composites; recent advances in conductive composites based on biodegradable polymers for regenerative medicine applications; biosynthesis of PHAs and their biomedical applications; biodegradable soy protein isolate/poly(vinyl alcohol) packaging films; and biodegradability of biobased polymeric materials in natural environment.