More than simply an up-to-date review of ionic polymerization, this book presents an in-depth and critical comparison of the anionic and cationic polymerization of vinyl monomers and heterocyclic compounds. These different modes of ionic polymerization are examined with regard to their capacity for producing living polymers. The concept of living polymers is re-examined and redefined in light of current knowledge of ionic polymerization and possible side reactions. Throughout, the authors offer perceptive insights into the basic concepts of polymerization chemistry and polymerization reaction mechanisms. The book begins with a review of ionic and radical polymerizations, the development of ionic polymerization, living and dormant polymers, and polymerizability. It goes on to consider important aspects of the structure and properties of ionic species; initiation and propagation of ionic polymerization; polymerization steps other than initiation or propagation, such as termination, isomerization, transfer, backbiting, and degraduation; and ionic copolymerization. Ionic Polymerization and Living Polymers is a much needed advanced text that will be widely read and referred to by polymer scientists, macromolecular chemists, and materials scientists.