Chapter 6:Microwave-assisted Synthesis of Polymers in Aqueous Media

In the last decade, increasing concerns related to environmental issues have prompted worldwide research towards the development of innovative and green technologies for the synthesis of polymers. In this perspective, microwave irradiation has proven to bring many benefits over conventional heating processes (short reaction times, high yields, reduction of undesired side reactions…) and provide an efficient way of producing polymers. In addition, in the frame of ongoing research concerning environment-friendly procedures, the reduction of organic solvents and their replacement by water is especially relevant. The association of both microwave heating and the use of water as solvent therefore appear particularly attractive. Although very recent, this emerging field of research is today rapidly expanding. Recent advances on microwave-assisted synthesis of polymers in aqueous medium are the subject of this chapter.