The first edition was produced at a time when the advantages of studying oriented polymers were just becoming apparent. From a sci� entific stand point it had been demonstrated that greater insight into both structure and properties could be obtained if an oriented polymer was prepared. From a technological viewpoint, major advances were under� way, especially in high modulus and high strength fibres. Twenty years later, it is possible to review the scientific advances which have been made in this area and to provide much wider perspectives for the technology. As in the case of the first edition, the emphasis is on the methodologies available for characterizing oriented polymers and their mechanical behaviour. It is a particular pleasure to thank the contributing authors for their cooperation and Dr Philip Hastings of Chapman & Hall for his support and encouragement. I am also indebted to Professors A. H. Windle and D. C. Bassett for their respective contributions to sections 1. 3. 1 and 1. 3. 4. Although this chapter has been extensively revised, the contribution of the late Leslie Holliday to the first edition of this book is also acknowledged. Introduction 1 I. M. Ward 1. 1 THE PHENOMENON OF ORIENTATION Orientation in polymers is a phenomenon of great technical and theo� retical importance. The word orientation itself conveys a number of ideas.

Synopsis

The understanding of the structure and properties of polymers in the oriented state is an important requirement in the field of polymer science and technology. This long-awaited second edition brings together an experienced international team of authors to provide the reader with an up-to-date review of the present situation, discussing all the scientific advances that have been made in this area and providing wider perspectives for this technology. As in the first edition, the emphasis is on the methodologies available for characterizing oriented polymers and their mechanical behaviour. The self-contained chapters cover a wide range of topics including the structure and morphology, mechanical properties, characterization and experimental techniques. Each chapter provides an introduction to the subject as well as a topical review of recent research.

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