Introduction to polymer analysis /

This work introduces readers to synthetic processes such as polymerization and condensation reactions of commercial polymers. Crompton, a highly experienced analytic chemist, logically presents a description of basic destructive analytical techniques (known to organic chemists), which include alkali fusion, combustion, and acid digestion, to determine elements such as halogens and other common elements. Within the parameters of an introductory work, the author clearly discusses instrumental techniques used in chemical analysis in general as well as in polymer analysis, such as atomic absorption, mass spectrometry, and a plethora of interphased chromatographic techniques. The determination of functional groups is important in all forms of organic chemical analysis, and thus the same is true for polymer chemistry, which also uses common spectroscopic techniques. Crompton discusses many topics that are most important to polymer chemists, including the characterization of monomer structure, its ratios, sequencing, stereoisomerism/tacticity, regioisomerism, unsaturation, and end groups as well as branching. The book features many excellent examples of spectra and provides a thorough explanation of their significance to polymer analysis. This work is useful for undergraduate students as well as scientists and engineers who desire an introduction to polymer analysis. The bibliography is adequate for an introductory text. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates, graduate students, and professionals. K. Bennett emeritus, Kalamazoo Valley Community College