Thiol-ene “click” reactions and recent applications in polymer and materials synthesis

This review highlights examples of recent applications of both the radical-mediated and base/nucleophile-initiated thiol-ene reactions in polymer and materials synthesis. Initial discussion focuses on mechanistic aspects of these reactions and also notes some of the structural considerations, with respect to reactants, that should be considered when practising such chemistries. The review is not intended to be exhaustive but rather to serve as an illustration of the impressive versatility and clear potential of these thiol-based “click” reactions and to highlight examples demonstrating its broad utility.