This state of the art review discusses the general properties of the materials (both unreinforced polymers and composites) and the range of proposed and commercial applications. The factors which influence corrosion resistance, the effects of solvents upon polymer properties, and methods of predicting solvent uptake from polymer and solvent characteristics are then reviewed. The actions of water, acids, alkalis, oxidising agents, organic solvents and halogens are considered in turn, with extensive referencing to research results. Work on gas diffusion, biocompatibility, heat ageing, thermal cycling and radiation resistance is also reviewed.

Much additional data is provided by the accompanying indexed section, containing over 400 references and abstracts from the Polymer Library, which completes the report.