Randal W. Richards

This text deals from a fundamental viewpoint with the behaviour of polymers at surfaces and interfaces. Topics covered include the nature and properties of the surface of a polymer melt, the structure of interfaces between different polymers and between polymers and non-polymers, the molecular basis of adhesion, and the properties of polymers at liquid surfaces. Emphasis is placed on the underlying physical principles. Statistical mechanics models of the behaviour of polymers near interfaces are introduced, with the emphasis on theory that is tractable and applicable to experimental situations. Advanced undergraduates, graduate students and research workers in physics, chemistry and materials science with an interest in polymers will find this book of value.