Derived from the fourth edition of the well-known Plastics Technology Handbook, Plastics Fundamentals, Properties, and Testing covers the behavior, characterization, and evaluation of polymers. With a lucid approach and wealth of valuable information, this volume looks at the remarkable versatility of this nonmetallic class of materials.

Examining polymers at the molecular level, the book first discusses their inherent properties and how their end-use properties can be influenced through changes in the molecular architecture or incorporation of various fillers and additives. The authors coherently present a wide spectrum of topics by sequentially introducing structural aspects, properties, and applications. They then proceed to explore the mechanical, electrical, optical, and thermal properties of polymers, providing theoretical derivations where necessary as well as explanations on molecular and structural features. To identify the principles involved, the book also furnishes the bases of many standard test methods according to ASTM and BS 2782 specifications.