The 2006 edition of this authoritative guide on liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) science was produced in response to the wealth of new material generated in the field. It takes the reader through the theoretical underpinnings to real-world applications of LCP technology in a logical, well-integrated manner. A chapter on liquid biopolymers has been introduced, whilst the in-depth discussion on applications describes not only maturing fields of high strength structural LCPs, but also a detailed analysis of the developing area of functional materials. The in-depth coverage and detailed glossary establishes this as an indispensable text for graduate students and researchers in the polymer field, as well as being of interest to those working in chemistry, physics and materials science.

'This book has always been THE definitive book on liquid crystalline polymers, tying together synthesis, theory, structure, processing and properties in a most-readable format. I am delighted to see that this new edition contains additional material which is completely up-to-date and includes the newest liquid crystal-forming polymer of all, the carbon nanotube.'

Richard E. Smalley Rice University - USA - Nobel Prize in Chemistry 1996