This book covers the entire field of macromolecular engineering, from design and preparation of well-defined macromolecules, to precise characterization, all the way to optimization for specific functions and applications. It provides background information, comparative advantages and limitations, the most recent advances of numerous synthetic approaches, characterization techniques, and potential applications. The second edition has been completely updated and edited by a world-class team of editors led by K. Matyjaszewski. Sample topics covered within the work include: Polymer chemists and engineers, materials scientists, and professionals in the plastics and pharmaceutical industries will be able to use as a completely comprehensive reference work to understand macromolecular engineering and its many practical applications.