Mission and challenges of polymer science and technology

Following the first IUPAC Polymer Conference on the Mission and Challenges of Polymer Science and Technology (IUPAC PC2002), this article highlights and summarizes the historical development of polymer science and technology and the recent advances that have occurred and are occurring in the subject. It highlights the mission and challenges for the future, particularly as reflected in the papers presented at the conference and in the conference's concluding panel discussion. The important role of IUPAC in defining and leading developments in polymer science and technology is also described. The central role of polymer science and technology and its close interactions with chemical, physical, and biological sciences are defined and discussed. The 21(st) century is shown to be the Age of Polymers.