Polymer Structure and Property

Dear colleagues,

The increasing use of polymers in different fields has stimulated the search for versatile polymeric structures covering a wide range of properties. In this context, a fundamental knowledge of the structure–property relations is mandatory. The establishment of these correlations implies that we must consider the chemical structure and the architectural aspects. The former are related to the polymer fine structure, i.e. the type of monomeric unit forming the chain that affects the sample crystallinity and the physical properties. The latter concern the chain as a whole, i.e. considering the presence of branching, crosslinking, distribution of chain length, chain conformation and rigidity. The knowledge of such correlations will indicate the suitability of a polymer for a particular purpose. In particular, this depends on whether it is glass-like, rubber-like or fiber-forming, according to chain flexibility, chain symmetry, and intermolecular attractions.

The aim of this Special Issue is to collect research or review papers, in order to understand the state of the art as well as to obtain insight into the possible correlations between the structure and properties of polymers. All contributions related to this issue are welcome.

Prof. Michelina Soccio
Prof. Nadia Lotti
Guest Editors