Anionic vinyl polymerization-50 years after Michael Szwarc

We present a review on the present status of anionic polymerization of important non-polar and polar vinyl monomers. After presenting the historical background-the “pre-Szwarc” era-we discuss the mechanisms of this polymerization, in particular several types of carbanions, their ion-pairs and their aggregates occurring in the initiation and propagation of non-polar and polar monomers, including recent developments. Finally, we discuss some important scientific and industrial applications of anionic polymerization.