Current status and outlook for ATRP

Atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) is one of the most often used controlled radical polymerization techniques. It employs very small amounts (ppm) of Cu complexes in the presence of various chemical reducing agents but also external stimuli such as light, electrical current or mechanical forces. It can be carried out in bulk, in solution, and in dispersed media. ATRP has been successfully used to prepare various polymers with controlled architecture and well-defined topology, composition, and functionality, as well as bioconjugates and organic–inorganic hybrids. This article summarizes the current status and also an outlook for ATRP.