This book presents a survey of the properties of polymers, the way these are governed by the underlying molecular structure, and how this relates to the practical behaviour of polymers, either during processing, or in the resulting properties of the final product. It presents an accessible introduction to the field, with specific attention to: - Molecular structure - Glass transition - Semi-crystalline polymers - Rubbery and fluid states - Viscoelasticity - Mechanical properties - Further properties - Polymeric compounds and composites - Processing