This book focuses on the modern development of techniques for analysis
of the hierarchical structure of polymers from both the experimental and
theoretical points of view. Starting with molecular and crystal
symmetry, the author explains fundamental and professional methods, such
as wide- and small-angle X-ray scattering, neutron diffraction, electron
diffraction, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, NMR, and synchrotron
radiation. In addition, the author explains another indispensable
method, computer simulation, which includes energy calculation, lattice
dynamics, molecular dynamics, and quantum chemistry. These various
methods are described in a systematic way so that the reader can utilize
them for the purpose of 3D structure analysis of polymers. Not only such
analytical knowledge but also the preparation techniques of samples
necessary for these measurements and the methods of analyzing the
experimental data collected in this way are given in a concrete manner.
Examples are offered to help master the principles of how to clarify the
static structures and dynamic structural changes in the phase
transitions of various kinds of crystalline polymers that are revealed
by these novel methods. The examples are quite useful for readers who
want to apply these techniques in finding practical solutions to
concrete problems that are encountered in their own research. The
principal audience for this book is made up of young professional
researchers including those working in industry, but it can also be used
as an excellent reference for graduate-level students.
This book is the first volume of a two-volume set with Structural
Science of Crystalline Polymers: A Microscopically Viewed
Structure-Property Relationship being the second volume by the same
author.
