Advances in the synthesis of macromolecular compounds. Review

Abstract

The present state of the chemistry of polymer synthesis and the prospects for its future development are discussed. The range of monomers used in polymerization and polycondensation and the types of polymer formed are shown. Attention is drawn to the important fact that all synthesis reactions involve formation of polymers containing different units and therefore the need is emphasized to take account of the multiunit structure of polymers in discussion of the dependence of the properties of polymers on structure. The main requirements of modern industry in the nature of problems solvable by synthetic methods are outlined. Specific features of the development of polymer synthesis by addition polymerization and polycondensation metho ds, as well as means of modification of polymers, are revealed. The diversity of polymerization and polycondensation processes is discussed, as well as the modification of already prepared polymers mainly by the example of new reactions, especially those leading to production of polymers of a new type. The prospects for development of synthetic chemistry are indicated from the historical point of view, and the present increasing tendency toward more extensive synthesis of polymers with a specific combination of properties is emphasized.