Fundamentals and fine figures of macromolecular material

This useful introductory text is aimed at undergraduates and new researchers interested in polymers. The author chooses to restrict the range of polymer chemistries discussed, so as better to emphasise the properties of polymers that are consequent on their macromolecular size, shape and functionality, although the book manages to describe a fair proportion of practical polymer systems.

All introductory texts on polymers must strike a balance between chemical structures and polymer properties, and the approach of this book was well received in the first edition.

The latest edition incorporates recent developments in "living radical" polymerisation, interpenetrating networks, blends and methods of analysis.

A feature of the book is the extensive use of figures and tables that include real data. There are also test questions at the end of each chapter.

Polymer science is now an extensive subject in its own right, and this book provides an effective entry to the subject.

David Walton is professor of applied chemistry, Coventry University.