Integration of Fundamental Polymer Science and Technology. (Volume 5)

The aim of the Rolduc Polymer Meetings is to stimulate interdisciplinary discussions between academic and industrial scientists and engineers. The general theme of these meetings is 'Integration of Fundamental Polymer Science and Technology'. In order to achieve this goal, experts from various fields are invited to review topics and to initiate discussions relating to future trends and developments. Since all participants are accommodated in Rolduc Abbey, a well-preserved mediaeval monument in Limburg (The Netherlands), an optimum atmosphere is provided for the exchange of ideas. About 400 participants took part in the 5th Rolduc Polymer Meeting, which was held from 29 April to 3 May 1990. This volume contains invited and selected contributed papers on topics such as thermodynamics/blends, liquid crystalline polymers, structure and morphology, polymerization and characterization. We are fully aware of the fact that the reader will not find an integrated presentation of lectures in this volume. Unfortunately, it is impossible to put down in writing the atmosphere of this and previous meetings. However, we hope that the reader will be stimulated to present his own views in forthcoming meetings after reading these proceedings. We wish to thank all contributors to this volume. P. J. L.