Polymeric liquids and networks

The general subject of polymeric liquids and networks was developed over the past 70 years by researchers from many academic disciplines.

The infusion of fresh viewpoints continually invigorated and enriched the field, but the lack of a common terminology and perspective has left a tendency toward compartmentalization, making it difficult for a newcomer, even one technically trained, to gain a broad understanding and see the relationships among its various parts. This book, without diluting the substance, aims to remedy that.

The development emphasizes fundamental principles and the molecular viewpoint.

It has also been developed from the background and language of molecular liquid theory.

The conceptual basis of the theories underlying each topical area is explained with derivations sometimes outlined briefly and sometimes given in detail.

Technical terminology is kept to the minimum necessary for a concise coherent presentation.

The goal is informed understanding rather than detailed technical proficiency.

Theory, experiement and simulation are woven together as appropriate, leaving the reader with a balanced view of the various areas. Much of the material in the book was developed for graduate courses in the subject. Written from a technical but non-specialized perspective, the book can also serve industrial needs, consolidating the understanding of topics having both practical and fundamental significance.

It deals mainly with non-polar and weakly polar species and mainly with results derived from experiements on structurally well-defined systems.

The object is not to ignore the more complex systems, which are pervasive in both nature and industry.