The Evolution of Cyclic Carbonate‐Functionalized Polymers: From Fundamental Chemistry to Comprehensive Applications

This review provides a comprehensive overview of polymers bearing five‐membered cyclic carbonate (5CC) moieties, highlighting their role in advancing CO ₂ utilization and their unique applications based on 5CC moieties. 5CC structures are highly promising due to their unique chemical properties and the fact that their synthesis typically requires milder conditions than most of CO ₂ conversion processes. The synthetic methodologies are categorized into three primary routes: polymerization of 5CC functional monomers, postpolymerization modification using CO ₂ or 5CC compounds, and polymerization accompanied by CO ₂ fixation. While (meth)acrylates are the most extensively developed platform, the exploration of other backbones—including styrene, vinyl ether, siloxane, and cyclic ethers—has realized a diverse array of polymer architectures. Furthermore, this review explores how the distinctive characteristics of 5CC functional polymers—such as high polarity and specific reactivity—lead to various applications, including high‐performance adhesives, coatings, energy storage devices, colorimetric sensors, and optical materials. Finally, the current challenges and future perspectives for the development of sustainable, high‐functionality 5CC‐based materials are addressed.