Free Radical Graft Polymerization

Abstract A critical review of the development of free radical graft copolymerization is presented. This is done in the context of a broader review of free radical polymerization. We consider in particular (1) free radical polymerization and copolymerization of two monomers, (2) grafting onto natural rubber primarily to improve its oil resistance and mechanochemical phenomenon in natural rubber, (3) grafting onto polystyrene to improve its mechanical toughness, (4) reactive extrusion to improve properties of polyolefins and make reactive polymers, (5) kinetics of graft polymerization, and (6) grafting of multiple monomers.