A comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the major mineral and organic fillers for plastics, their production, structure and properties, as well as their applications in terms of primary and secondary functions. Edited and co-authored by Professor Marino Xanthos with contributions by international experts from industry and academia, the book presents methods of mixing/incorporation technologies, surface treatments and modifications for enhanced functionality, an analysis of parameters affecting filler performance and a presentation of current and emerging applications. Additionally, the novel classification according to modification of specific polymer properties rather than filler chemical composition will provide a better understanding of the relationships between processing, structure and properties of products containing functional fillers and the identification of new markets and applications.For engineers, scientists and technologists involved in the industrially important sector of polymer composites.

POLYMERS AND FILLERSPolymers and Polymer CompositesModification of Polymer Mechanical and Rheological Properties with Functional FillersMixing of Fillers with PlasticsSURFACE MODIFIERS AND COUPLING AGENTSSilane Coupling AgentsTitanate Coupling AgentsFunctional Polymers and Other ModifiersFILLERS AND THEIR FUNCTIONALITIESMECHANICAL PROPERTY MODIFIERS - HIGH ASPECT RATIOGlass FibersMica FlakesNanoclays and Their Emerging MarketsCarbon Nanotubes/Nanofibers and Carbon FibersNatural FibersMECHANICAL PROPERTY MODIFIERS - LOW ASPECT RATIOTalcKaolinWollastoniteWood FlourCalcium CarbonateFIRE RETARDANTSELECTRICAL AND MAGNETIC PROPERTY MODIFIERSConductive and Magnetic FillersSURFACE PROPERTY MODIFIERSPROCESSING AIDSSPECIALTY FILLERSGlass and Ceramic SpheresBioactive FillersIn-Situ Generated Fillers: Organic-Inorganic Hybrids