Thermo-Oxidative Degradation Of Polymers

The oxidative and thermal degradation of polymers has very important implications on their suitability for particular end-user applications. Particularly in relation to their physical properties and the lifetime over which the manufactured article retains these properties, after which they become unsuitable for purpose. This book brings together information on the thermooxidative resistance of polymers to change during processing and end-use life. Our present understanding of the chemical changes of the polymer that accompany degradation are also reviewed and the analytical methods by which changes can be ascertained are also discussed. The principle techniques used in thermooxidative studies are based on thermal analysis methods such as thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry and on methods based on polymer pyrolysis followed by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry and/or infrared spectroscopy of the volatiles produced. Other techniques which have have been include nuclear magnetic spectroscopy, electron spin resonance spectroscopy and methods based on chemiluminescence and positron annihilation lifetime mass spectrometry. This book will be of interest to those involved in the investigation of polymer stability and studies of the mechanics of polymer degradation, to polymer manufacturers and those who use polymers to manufacture end-use articles. The book will also be of interest to those involved in the manufacture of stabilisers for oxidation resistance for use in polymer manufacture, mechanical engineers and designers of polymer products.