The field of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) has grown rapidly due to their promise in selective recognition and separation processes. MIPs are synthetic materials structured to have specific cavities tailored for target molecules, making them highly valuable in a range of analytical and industrial applications. Recent developments have focused not only on refining the fabrication techniques for MIPs but also on expanding their versatility in sensor technology, environmental monitoring, and remediation. However, despite promising advancements, challenges remain in enhancing their selectivity, scalability for industrial production, and performance under real-world sample conditions.

In recent years, significant momentum has been gained in integrating MIPs into sensor platforms for highly selective detection, including for environmental pollutants and hazardous substances. Additionally, composite MIP materials are being explored for their efficacy in the removal of heavy metals and antibiotics from wastewater, while innovative designs are improving their utility in complex environmental sample analyses. Ongoing research debates center around improving binding affinities, reducing template leakage, and translating laboratory successes to robust industrial and environmental applications. As new MIP-based composites and hybrid materials are developed, the need for collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches is increasingly recognized to address existing gaps in practical deployment.

This Research Topic aims to explore the latest advancements in the enhancement, design, and application of molecularly imprinted polymer materials for analytical, environmental, and industrial purposes. The primary objectives are to identify novel fabrication strategies, assess practical utilities and limitations, and evaluate the effectiveness of MIPs in diverse real-world scenarios. Contributions that bridge the gap between experimental materials research and their scalable, reproducible implementation, as well as those that address persistent technical challenges, are especially encouraged.

To gather further insights in the development, characterization, and application boundaries of molecularly imprinted polymers, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Novel synthesis approaches for MIPs and MIP-based composites

• Integration of MIPs in sensor and detection technologies

• Applications of MIPs for environmental pollutant detection and remediation

• Industrial utilization and upscaling of MIP materials

• Advances in MIP-based analysis of environmental samples

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Development and Utilization of Molecular Imprinted Polymer Materials