Synthesis and Processing of Biodegradable and Bio-Based Polymers by Microwave Irradiation

Started as a by-product of the radar technology developed during World War II, the domestic microwave oven is now a common appliance in households. Besides cooking, microwave heating has many industrial (drying, sintering, semiconductors), and medical (cell destruction, curing) applications. In such applications, microwave heating demonstrates significant advantages over conventional methods in reducing process time, improving food quality, and reducing environmental impacts. Before the potential of microwave processing can be tapped fully, industry must have a good understanding of microwaves heat materials and their limitations. We, therefore, seek high-quality papers that will contribute significantly to uncover those limitations. Furthermore, in this book, target readers will be able to find out about new technological advancements in heating by microwave radiation. Current problems like industrial heat-treating, treatment of composite materials, drying and bio-processing of tissues or cells will be also presented. The primary target audience for the book includes students, scholars, mechanical and chemical engineers, medical researchers and professionals who are interested in microwave heating and related issues.