This book is intended as a companion volume to the author's earlier book Introduction to Industrial Polymers. The methods of synthesis used in the manufacture of major polymer raw materials are described, and new emerging technologies are highlighted. The relationship of major polymers to basic feedstock such as syngas, methanol, ethylene, propylene, benzene, toluene, and xylene is indicated. Data on world consumption and current prices of the basic building blocks are given. In a final chapter, the author deals with future trends in the development of special monomers to further advance the state of industrial polymers as viable materials of construction, as well as functional materials in tomorrow's world.