As environmental performance becomes increasingly important, the
development of man-made polymers and their associated benefits has been
overshadowed by problems relating to their ultimate disposal. In the
light of wider acceptance of polymers for use in high technology
applications, Polymers and the Environment aims to redress the balance.
The book reviews the properties and industrial applications of polymers
and discusses their environmental benefits compared with traditional
materials. It also addresses the issues of polymer durability, recycling
processes to aid waste minimization and biodegradable polymers. This
text is intended to introduce the non-specialist reader to the benefits
and limitations of polymeric materials from an environmental viewpoint,
and will prove a useful book for both students and professionals.