ABSTRACT

Foam Extrusion: Principles and Practice combines the science of foam with the engineering of extrusion processes in one comprehensive volume, joining scientific principles and engineering practice. Starting with the fundamentals and then moving to phase separation, the text lays the scientific foundation in such a manner that the microscopic transition from a nucleus to a void (nucleation) and macroscopic movement from a void to an object (formation) are plausibly addressed. The last section of the book presents interesting foam extrusion developments, demonstrating how scientific findings can be applied to the engineering field, from principles to batch experimentation and continuous foaming. Each chapter concludes with a section of references for further study, and most include a nomenclature section and/or summary section as well. Drawing from the experience of the editor and the authors, Foam Extrusion: Principles and Practice captures the interesting evolution of foam extrusion, and offers a solid foundation for future developments. It is an informative guide for anyone involved with this field.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction. Statistical Thermodynamics of Gas Solubility in Polymers. Rheology of Thermoplastic Foam Extrusion Process. Foam Nucleation in Gas-Dispersed Polymeric Systems. Foam Growth in Polymers. Polymeric Foaming Simulation: Batch and Continuous. Process Design for Thermoplastic Foam Extrusion. Foam Extrusion Machinery Features. Mixing Design for Foam Extrusion: Analysis and Practices. Foaming Agents for Foam Extrusion. Continuous Production of High-Density and Low-Density Microcellular Plastics in Extrusion. Foam Extrusion of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET).