Green Polymer Chemistry

Green Polymer Chemistry is a crucial area of research and product development that continues to grow in its influence over industrial practices. Developments in these areas are driven by environmental concerns, interest in sustainability, desire to decrease our dependence on petroleum, and commercial opportunities to develop "green" products. Publications and patents in these fields are increasing as more academic, industrial, and government scientists become involved in research and commercial activities.

The purpose of this book is to publish new work from a cutting-edge group of leading international researchers from academia, government, and industrial institutions. Because of the multidisciplinary nature of Green Polymer Chemistry, corresponding publications tend to be spread out over numerous journals. This book brings these papers together so that the reader can gain a better appreciation of the breadth and depth of activities in Green Polymer Chemistry. It is based on contributions by oral and poster presenters at the international symposium, Biocatalysis in Polymer Science, held at the ACS National Meeting in Washington D.C. on August 17-20, 2009. Whereas many aspects of Green Polymer Chemistry were covered during the symposium, a particular emphasis was placed on biocatalysis and biobased materials. Many exciting new findings in basic research and applications were reported. In addition, several leaders in these areas who were unable to attend the symposium contributed important reviews of their ongoing work. As a result, this book provides a good representation of activities at the forefront of research in Green Polymer Chemistry emphasizing activities in biocatalysis and biobased chemistry.

H. N. Cheng is a Research Chemist at the Southern Regional Research Center, USDA Agricultural Research Service.

Richard A. Gross is Director of Center for Biocatalysis and Bioprocessing of Macromolecules at Polytechnic University.