Polymers and Polymeric Materials for Fiber and Gradient Optics (New Concepts in Polymer Science)

This book considers general aspects of the theory of polymers applied in optics. The main factors affecting the light loss in polymeric wave beam guides (PG) are discussed, and the mechanism of light loss in PG is analysed. Polymers applied in fiber optics are classified with reference to methods of fabrication and purification of the materials. Technological aspects of material fabrication are considered together with kinetic aspects of polymerisation. Updated information on polymerisation kinetics of MMA and styrene, and copolymerisation of these monomers with each other is reported. Other topics discussed in the book are heterogeneity of optic copolymers, association between structure and reactivity of monomers, other properties of optic copolymers, and areas of their commercial application. This volume will be of value and interest to anyone working in the field of optic polymers, both in academia and industry.