The properties of materials depend on the nature of the macromolecules, small molecules and inorganic components and the interfaces and interactions between them. Polymer chemistry and physics, and inorganic phase structure and density are major factors that influence the performance of materials. In addition, molecular recognition, organic-inorganic interfaces and many other types of interactions among components are key issues in determining the properties of materials for a wide range of applications. Materials require ments are becoming more and more specialized to meet increasingly...