This comprehensive resource enables the reader to achieve an advanced, up-to-date understanding of polymer synthesis. Different methods of polymerization, reaction parameters for synthesis, molecular weight, branching and crosslinking, and the chemical and physical structure of polymers all receive ample coverage. A thorough discussion at the elementary level prefaces each topic, followed by more advanced and in-depth treatment.

The revised fourth edition of this classic text and reference includes new and expanded coverage on a multitude of topics, including: metallocene and post-metallocene polymerization catalysts; living polymerizations (radical, cationic, and anionic); dendrimer, hyperbranched, brush, and other polymer architectures and assemblies; graft and block copolymers; high-temperature polymers; conducting polymers; and more.

From the Preface: “...The sequence I have followed is to introduce the reader to the characteristics which distinguish polymers from their much smaller sized homologs (Chap. 1) and then proceed to a detailed consideration of the three types of polymerization reactions — step, chain, and ring-opening polymerizations (Chaps. 2-5, 7). Polymerization reactions are characterized as to their kinetic and thermodynamic features, their scope and utility for the synthesis of different types of polymer structures, and the process conditions which are used to carry them out...”

Target Audience: Materials scientists, polymer chemists, chemical engineers, and other professionals concerned with polymerization, as well as upper-level students in these disciplines.

Table of Contents:

Introduction

Step Polymerization

Radical Chain Polymerization

Emulsion Polymerization

Ionic Chain Polymerization

Chain Copolymerization

Ring-Opening Polymerization

Stereochemistry of Polymerization

Reactions of Polymers

Index