New knowledge in the area of polymer synthesis and characterization as well as new understanding of correlation between the structure and properties allow the design of polymers with predictable properties tailored to different uses. New application areas continue appearing thus making new materials an important for the development of new, technologically demanding and commercially promising products. The research in the program have a long term importance for a number of Slovenian developmental goals: (i) the support of a competitive capacity and economic growth based on the development of new materials, rationalization of production and the development of new products, processes and technologies, (ii) environmental protection, (iii) efficient energy use, (iv) the improvement of quality of life and health. The use of liquid crystalline polymers is moving from the already known fields such as optical data recording, monitors, temperature sensors or stationary phase for gas chromatography also into coatings, blends with conventional polymers or low molecular weight liquid crystals and so-called molecular composites. The development of ionically conducting polymer membranes is a key element in the development of cheaper and more efficient fuel cells, that hold high promises as a source of energy in the future. Polyaniline has a number of advantages compared to other conducting polymers, however it suffers from insolubility and is not a thermoplast which makes it more difficult to use. To overcome this limitation we studied the synthesis of soluble copolymers of substituted anilins and the effect of substituents on the properties. The products will have importance for the coatings industry, membranes, electroindustry etc. Slovenia has a well developed leather and paper industry and a coatings, paints and adhesives industry. Research directed at new materials, improvements in technologies and solving environmental problems are very important for this industry branch. The research on IPN with improved properties and other environmentally friendly technology improvements (the use of prepolymers, aqueous systems) are connected to these industries. Research in the determination of absolute and relative molar mass distributions of particular polymers are of great help to the industry in solving technical problems. Our work in the area of polymer and plastics recycling is also important for Slovenia from the point of better utilization of materials as well as environmental protection. The knowledge and experience that is gained in basic research is transferred into areas that are of particular interest for the Slovenian industry ((especially PU, acrylics, polyesters and phenolic resins). We collaborate with our industrial partners in the development of new products and the optimizing of those already existing through applied and developmental projects, and very often in solving their short-term problems.