Sperling's Introduction to Physical Polymer Science:

This classic textbook provides a thorough introduction to the area of physical polymer science, emphasizing interrelationships between molecular structure and the morphology and mechanical behavior of polymers. New to the fourth edition are sections on: controlled drug delivery with biopharmaceutical polymers, nanotechnology-based materials, the 3D structure and function of biopolymers (as well as the use of optical tweezers), friction and wear in polymers, kinetics of crystallization, mechanical behavior of biomedical polymers, glass transition behavior of thin films, light-emitting polymers and electroactive materials, fire retardancy, interfaces of polymeric biomaterials with living organisms, polymer self-assembly, and much more.

Odian's Principles of Polymerization:

The new edition of this classic textbook describes the physical and organic chemistry of the reactions that produce polymers. Three primary features distinguish this book from the competition: 1) each topic is prefaced with a thorough discussion at the elementary level, assuming at most only a limited background in physical and organic chemistry. 2) the presentation and writing are geared for the student. 3) each topic is subsequently considered at an advanced level, allowing both the novice and more accomplished student to achieve an advanced understanding of polymer synthesis.

Trained as a chemist, L. H. SPERLING is Professor Emeritus of both Chemical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He remains active in consulting, speaking, and writing.

GEORGE ODIAN received his PhD from Columbia University. He is currently Emeritus Professor of Chemistry at the College of Staten Island of the City University of New York. He has previously served as professor of chemistry and chairman, Division of Pure and Applied Sciences at Richmond College of CUNY, assistant professor at Columbia University, research director of RAI Research Company, and research chemist at Thiokol Chemical Company. He has written over sixty research publications and authored both taped and short courses for the American Chemical Society. He is also the coauthor of four books in general, organic, and biochemistry.