Covalent Materials and Hybrids

Moving through the historical evolution of traditional amorphous 1D organic polymers to crystalline 3D networks, through 0D molecular cages and 2D frameworks, this book takes the reader on a journey on how covalently bonded materials and their hybrids can change the material world through applications relevant to energy, water and the environment. Looking at future demands from the materials that we use, strong, heavy and thermodynamically stable metals have been independently taken over by carbon allotropes and analogous materials. Equipment and instruments are becoming smaller and lighter, with research driving towards future organic materials with advanced physical, chemical, mechanical and optoelectronic properties. This book classifies and touches on every aspect of polymeric material chemistry, advanced characterizations and emerging reticular chemistry, especially organic porous materials, their design, synthesis, structure and built-in functions. The design, synthesis, structure, characterization, and properties of carbon rich framework materials are systematically reviewed to provide key information of the entire field. Arranged in chronological order to show changes made in ideas and strategies in developing these covalently framed materials to meet modern requirements, chapters cover linear polymers, organic cages, fullerene, carbon nanotubes, graphene and graphite, porous organic polymers, 2D- and 3D-covalent organic frameworks, and their hybrids. This book is an ideal introduction for students wanting to pursue this emerging field and gain knowledge on polymers and advanced organic materials. It will also update current researchers on recent developments, explored properties, and arising challenges of covalent materials.