Introduction to Polymer Compounding: Raw Materials, Volume 1

Polymer Compounding, Volume 1 focuses on aspects of the raw materials used in polymer processing. Polymer compounding comprises a complex heterogeneous system of polymers and other ingredients and, in many ways, the preparation of these materials is still very much an art. It is a powerful tool that will eventually be required as one of the basics of polymer processing. This book provides readers with a wide array of state-of-the-art strategies to develop their knowledge about compounding and the use of polymers while minimising wastage during processing. Details about polymer properties and additives are assembled to provide a one-source repository for compounding. Another important point to be considered in the book is the combination of polymers and additives and the essentials required for the development of economic and environmental incentives in polymer processing. This book will encourage further studies to understand the scientifically challenging polymer processing issues arising during the manufacture of parts for end-use applications. Finally, this volume presents an overview of polymer compounding requirements, as well as an idea of some of the future directions, advances and challenges of polymer processing.