All plastics are complex materials made from basic or intermediate polymers, along with various agents and additives to create desired qualities like color, elasticity, durability, thermal resistance, and electrical and optical properties. Thus, it is imperative that these ingredients be carefully monitored for consistent properties and quality. This book focuses on the latest techniques available for such testing, including chemical, physical, electrical and mechanical analytical methods. Readers will find:

• Testing methods from preliminary assessment to advanced diagnostics, with a focus on instrumental methods
  
• Common testing techniques for each major class of polymer, including PVC, polyethylene, engineering plastics, and additives like titanium dioxide, light stabilizers and antiblocking agents
  
• Data on the latest forms of instrumentation and new testing technologies, including FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) , TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis), and DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry)