Chapter 1 - Biodegradability, life cycle analysis, and biocompatibility of organic radicals

Abstract

Organic radicals, species with an unpaired electron, are open-shell molecules made up of light elements (H, C, N, O, and S) with a highly reactive electronic configuration. For decades, organic radicals have been pervasive in our daily lives due to their significance in technological and fundamental applications. They are concerned with numerous implementations in spintronics, bistable memory devices, and sensing materials. Organic radicals have been generally associated with their detrimental roles in causing plastic aging and pathogenic factors causing human diseases. Furthermore, the highly reactive, unstable, and unmanageable nature of radicals results in consequences and challenges during experimentation. However, by utilizing the properties of these radicals, the drawbacks may be replaced with boosted improvements. One characteristic example of radical implementation is the discovery of controlled radical polymerization. Radical chemistry has been employed to prepare nearly half of all commercial synthetic polymers, providing a diverse range of materials for a variety of markets. Unfortunately, certain major obstacles concerning the stability and control of organic radicals need to be addressed. Therefore, this chapter provides an in-depth study of organic radicals concerning their life cycle, biodegradability, and biocompatibility. Continuous exploration of organic radicals is mandatory to develop new stabilized radical systems, which may in turn exhibit amazing applications in various areas.