Graft copolymers

Definition

Graft copolymers are a type of copolymer where one or more species of monomers (side chains) are chemically bonded to the main polymer chain, creating a branched molecular structure. These structures allow for the combination of different polymer properties in a single material.

Related terms

Copolymers:

Polymers made from two or more different types of monomers.

Monomer:

A small molecule that can react with other similar molecules to form a polymer.

Polymerization:

The chemical process that combines many small molecules into a large molecule of a polymer