An Introduction to Polymer Physics

Assuming no previous knowledge of polymers, this book provides a general introduction to the physics of solid polymers. Covering a wide range of topics within the field of polymer physics, the book begins with a brief history of the development of synthetic polymers and an overview of the methods of polymerization and processing. In the following chapter, David Bower describes important experimental techniques used in the study of polymers. The main part of the book, however, is devoted to the structure and properties of solid polymers, including blends, copolymers and liquid crystal polymers.

David Bower received his D. Phil from the University of Oxford in 1964. In 1990 he became a Reader in the Department of Physics at the University of Leeds, retiring from this position in 1995.