Polymers containing S-vinylthio alkanols

Process for preparing polymers comprising S-vinylthioalkanol as monomer by radical polymerization, the polymerization being carried out in aqueous solution, with the proviso that no N-vinylpyrrolidone as monomer is used for preparing the polymers, and also polymers prepared by such processes. Copolymer consisting of S-vinyl-2-thioethan-1-ol and one or more ethylenically unsaturated monomers selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, itaconic acid, maleic acid, maleic anhydride, and vinylphosphonic acid. Mixtures, preferably aqueous compositions, comprising polymers or copolymers. Use of polymers, copolymers, or aqueous compositions as concrete plasticizers, wetting agents, in cosmetics, as adhesive constituent, in emulsion polymerization, for metal surface treatment, in coatings applications, in paints, in laundry detergents, in washing detergents, as encapsulating material or as enveloping material.