Copper-mediated controlled radical polymerization in continuous flow processes: Synergy between polymer reaction engineering and innovative chemistry

Copper(0)-mediated controlled radical polymerization (CRP), or single-electron transfer-living radical polymerization (SET-LRP) is a robust and dynamic technique that has attracted considerable academic and industrial interest as a synthetic tool for novel value-added materials. Although SET-LRP possesses many advantages over other forms of CRP, this novel chemistry still requires concurrent engineering solutions for successful commercial application. In this highlight, the evolution of atom-transfer radical polymerization chemistry and development in continuous processes is presented, leading to recent research on the use of SET-LRP in continuous flow tubular reactors. The proofs of concept are reviewed, and remaining challenges and unexplored potential on the use of continuous flow processes with SET-LRP as a powerful platform for the synthesis of novel polymeric materials are discussed. (c) 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2013, 51, 3081-3096