scope:

The topic of polymer surface modification is of tremendous contemporary interest because of its critical importance in many and varied technological applications where polymers are used. Currently there is brisk research activity in unraveling the mechanisms of surface modification and finding ways to prolong the life of surface treatment. Also there is acute interest and need to devise new, improved and economical means to modify polymer surfaces.This book is divided into three parts as follows: Part 1: Surface Modification Techniques; Part 2: Interfacial Aspects and Adhesion; Part 3: General Papers.The topics covered include : various techniques for surface modification including plasma (both vacuum and atmospheric pressure), ozone, photografting, UV photo-oxidation, laser, use of charged particles and others for a variety of polymers; longevity of surface treatment; hydrophobic recovery; fabrication of high-density polymer nano-dots; immobilization of organometallic catalysts on textile carrier materials; polymer membrane antifouling properties; electroless metallization of polymers; effects of surface modification on interfacial shear strength of composites, cord/rubber adhesion, adhesion of UV-curable coatings and attachment of hyperbranched polymers; plasma polymerization; block copolymers; application of plasma technology in decontamination of heat-sensitive polymer surfaces.In essence this book reflects the current state-of-the-knowledge in the arena and represents the work of many renowned scientists and technologists. It should be of interest to anyone with a desire or need to learn the latest R&D activity in this domain and the information contained here should be very valuable in deciding the optimum surface modification technique for his/her particular requirements.