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The composites are well known to mankind since pre-historic period and were practiced as well. But with the development of polymers and polymer science, the concept and technology have undergone sea change in the understanding of the basics like the role of matrix and reinforcement, bonding mechanism, morphological features and environmental effects, etc.

Polymer composites due to their lightweight, chemical and corrosion resistance as well as heterogeneous composition provide unlimited possibilities of deriving any characteristic material behaviour. This unique flexibility in design tailoring and other characteristics, such as ease of manufacturing, high specific strength, stiffness, shape molding, corrosion resistance, durability, adaptability and cost effectiveness, have attracted the attention of engineers and material scientist and technologists. They have become materials of 21st century to meet the requirement of space, missile, marine and medical aid technologies.

This book deals in detail polymer composites and is intended as introduction to the field of polymer composites, covering various aspects of structure, design, behaviour, use and quality assurance. Though designed primarily for polymer technologists and scientists, the book may prove to be useful for undergraduate and postgraduate students of material science and engineering, polymer science and chemical technology disciplines. The book may also prove useful for students of polymer chemistry.