This unified presentation of cationic polymerization discusses initiation, propagation, transfer, and termination in cationic polymerizations of alkenes and heterocycles. It also elucidates the mechanisms of the reactions involved in all carbocationic and ring-opening polymerizations. It is written by internationally acclaimed experts in their respective fields.

This review is focused on controlled/living radical polymerization methods for the preparation of various copolymers. A brief introduction to the subject of radical polymerization, and early attempts to control it, is followed by a detailed examination of the literautre on controlled/living radical copolymerizations from the mid-90's until 2001. The topics covered include statistical/gradient, block, graft, and star copolymers and the polymerization methods used to produce them. These copolymers were prepared using three major controlled radical methods (either nitroxide mediated...

The progress in polymer science is revealed in the chapters of Polymer Science: A Comprehensive Reference. In Volume 1, this is reflected in the improved understanding of the properties of polymers in solution, in bulk and in confined situations such as in thin films. Volume 2 addresses new characterization techniques, such as high resolution optical microscopy, scanning probe microscopy and other procedures for surface and interface characterization. Volume 3 presents the great progress achieved in precise synthetic polymerization techniques for vinyl monomers to control...