This book summarizes the latest knowledge in the science and technology of ionic liquids and
polymers in different areas. Ionic liquids (IL) are actively being investigated in polymer
science and technology for a number of different applications. In the first part of the book
the authors present the particular properties of ionic liquids as speciality solvents. The
state-of-the art in the use of ionic liquids in polymer synthesis and modification reactions
including polymer recycling is outlined. The second part focuses on the use of ionic liquids as
speciality additives such as plasticizers or antistatic agents. The third part examines the use
of ionic liquids in the design of functional polymers (usually called polymeric ionic liquids
(PIL) or poly(ionic liquids)). Many important applications in diverse scientific and industrial
areas rely on these polymers like polymer electrolytes in electrochemical devices building
blocks in materials science nanocomposites gas membranes innovative anion sensitive
materials smart surfaces and a countless set range of emerging applications in different
fields such as energy optoelectronics analytical chemistry biotechnology nanomedicine or
catalysis.
