This is a classic text on polymer synthesis and is appropriate for novice and advanced students as well as professionals. This comprehensive yet accessible resource enables the reader to achieve an advanced, up-to-date understanding of polymer synthesis. Different methods of polymerization, reaction parameters for synthesis, molecular weight, branching and cross linking, and the chemical and physical structure of polymers all receive ample coverage. A thorough discussion at the elementary level prefaces each topic, followed by a more advanced treatment. Table of contents � step polymerization � radical chain polymerization � emulsion polymerization � ionic chain polymerization � chain copolymerization � ring-opening polymerization � reactions of polymers � stereochemistry of polymerizaton � reactions of polymers.