The challenges of controlling polymer synthesis at the molecular and macromolecular level

Abstract

Modern applications of polymers demand further elaboration of molecular-level structures as well as control of various macro-level features. There have been significant advances towards applying the science of synthetic organic chemistry to this end with ever-developing precision. Polymers present a unique challenge and opportunity because their synthesis is an inherently divergent process and therefore yields statistical materials. Furthermore, it is a challenge to simultaneously control chemical features of polymers on both the micro and macro level, because one does not inform the other in a straightforward way. In this Perspective article, we highlight developments and opportunities in the broad aspects of synthesising polymers in a controlled fashion, particularly through radical chemistry.