* Presents the latest research and technology in the field * Considers major issues and challenges in the production of commercial-scale polymers * Reviews fundamental concepts in polymer chemistry including the polymerization mechanisms, catalysts, monomers, solvents, and agents to prepare a variety of different types of polymers * Studies the reaction parameters that are key to the control of polymerization rates, polymer molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, and structural stability. An authoritative and in-depth review of the most important preparative methods for the synthesis and chemical modification of polymers, this second edition examines the advantages and limitations of a variety of polymerization applications and procedures, as well as new approaches and innovative strategies from the most prominent industry and academic laboratories. The authors analyze biodegradable polymers for biomedical applications, investigate the use of polyolefins, polymeric dienes, aromatic polyethers, polymides, and metal-containing macromolecules, and cover polymers of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, and maleic acid, reflecting the burgeoning role of polymers in modern science and technology..