Dispersion polymerization in environmentally benign solvents via reversible deactivation radical polymerization

There is much recent interest in dispersion polymerization conducted via reversible deactivation radical polymerization (RDRP). This review is focused on RDRP-mediated dispersion polymerization in environmentally benign solvents, including water, supercritical CO2, ionic liquids, and low-molecular-weight poly(ethylene glycol)s. New trends in employing redox initiator, visible-light control, and enzyme catalysis to conduct dispersion polymerization in these solvents are also highlighted. Finally, we point out the current limitations and future directions that need more attention in this burgeoning field.