Relaxation and Thermodynamics in Polymers

In this work, Donth gives an overall view of the relaxation and thermodynamics in simple polymers which consist of flexible chain molecules. The classical results, such as the Flory Huggins equation, the Rouse modes, the Adam Gibbs approach and the de Gennes reputation are presented in a broad, general form. Afterwards the discussion follows up recent developments and speculations. In the second half of the book subjects are described that include both thermodynamics and kinetic aspects, such as spinodal phase decomposition and layer crystallization. The central point of interest is the glass transition and enlargement of this conception. All phenomena are regarded in their spatial and temporal aspects. In many cases a comparison is made to corresponding phenomena in small-molecule systems in order to point out the particularities of polymers. Fundamental problems of thermodynamics and relaxation are also discussed as far as they are connected to subsystem sizes similar to polymer structures and to broad multiple relaxation spectra.
The book is not only addressed to experts, but also to newcomers and students who are interested in obtaining a general view of this field of growing importance.