This book covers the remarkable development of the chemistry and applications of Mannich bases within the last 30 years. It provides an updated and comprehensive look at these compounds-compounds identified at the beginning of the century. Particular emphasis is placed on the versatile chemistry of Mannich bases. Synthesis and reactions of Mannich bases are systematically treated in the first two chapters, which include a thorough review of the most recent advances on the topic. Chapters 3 and 4 are devoted to the macromolecular chemistry and the chemistry of natural compounds, two emerging areas of application of the chemistry of Mannich bases. Chapter 5 deals with structure/property relationships that enable the production of tailor-made molecular structures suited to different practical applications. A survey of the main uses of individual Mannich bases according to the type of industrial branch is also reported.