Discerning the properties of polymers and polymer-based materials requires a good understanding of characterization. This revised and updated text provides that understanding through its comprehensive survey of characterization methods, and its simple, concise chapters.Polymer Characterization: Physical Techniques, provides an overview of a wide variety of characterization methods, which makes it an excellent textbook and reference. It starts with a description of basic polymer science, providing a solid foundation from which to understand the key physical characterization techniques. The authors explain physical principles without heavy theory. Special emphasis is given to application of the techniques to polymers, with plenty of illustrations. Topics covered include molecular weight determination, molecular and structural characterization by spectroscopic techniques, morphology and structural characterization by microscopy and diffraction, and thermal analysis. This edition contains a new chapter on surface analysis as well as some revised problems and solutions. Designed for advanced undergraduate courses, this text is also suitable for students with no prior knowledge of the subject. Its concise treatment of each topic offers students relevant information in a format that provides simple descriptions and quick, easy access.