What is "graft polymer"

n. (context organic chemistry English) A branched polymer having sidechains composed of different monomers to that of the main chain.

Graft Polymers are segmented copolymers with a linear backbone of one composite and randomly distributed branches of another composite. The picture labeled "graft polymer" shows how grafted chains of species B are covalently bonded to polymer species A. Although the side chains are structurally distinct from the main chain, the individual grafted chains may be homopolymers or copolymers. Graft polymers have been synthesized for many decades and are especially used as impact resistant materials, thermoplastic elastomers, compatibilizers, or emulsifiers for the preparation of stable blends or alloys. One of the more well known examples of a graft polymer is high impact polystyrene, which consists of a polystyrene backbone with poly butadiene grafted chains.