This book deals with the most important substances used as additives in
the plastics industry to improve the properties of polymer-based
materials. Each chapter deals with a particular type of additive based
on the type's definition, structure, and classification according to
main effects on polymeric materials. The mechanism of the additive
efficiency and its effects on basic properties of specific polymers are
discussed and a survey of its important qualities and practical
applications is given. Each chapter is introduced by a theoretical
analysis of the practical and technological importance of the ad-
ditive. The book is mainly intended for students in technical colleges,
polytechnics and universities who are studying plastics technology and
macromolecular chemistry as part of their general curriculum and for
technologists in industry engaged in development, sales, technical
service and production functions, and applications of plastics. An
elementary knowledge of chemistry, physical chemistry and polymer
science at the technical college level is assumed. Prague and Montreal,
December 1982 J. Stepek, H. Daoust Table of Contents Introduction .