Graft copolymer

Definition

A graft copolymer is a type of polymer made by chemically attaching branches of one polymer (side chains) onto the backbone of another. This structure combines the properties of both polymers, leading to unique material characteristics.

Related terms

Copolymer:

A polymer made from two or more different monomer species, which can result in improved material properties compared to polymers made from a single type of monomer.

Monomer:

The basic building block molecule that can be bonded to other identical molecules to form a polymer.

Polymerization:

The chemical process that combines many small molecules known as monomers into a covalently bonded chain or network known as a polymer