Poly(P-xylylene)s: Synthesis, polymer analogous reactions, and perspectives on structure–property relationships†

A critical overview of different synthetic approaches to poly(p-xylylene)s (PPXs) is coupled with perspectives on particular structure–property relationships and challenging applications. An attempt is made to emphasize the potential of different synthetic approaches to PPXs focused on different applications. Additionally, the synthesis and polymer analogous reactions of PPXs without leaving groups and functionalized PPXs (with leaving groups in the a-position) serving as processable precursors for non-processable polymers are evaluated.