Graft Copolymerization of Vinyl Monomers onto Cellulose and Cellulosic Materials

Abstract

Graft copolymerization is a novel method which has wide application in synthesizing new forms of polymeric materials and also in modifying the properties of natural polymers [1,2]. Much research has been done on grafting polymeric molecules on to cellulose to produce materials of new properties intermediate between those of cellulose and those of synthetics. A variety of property changes can be imparted to cellulose through grafting without destroying the crystallinity or crystallization potential of the substrate or reducing its melting point. Some of the most dramatic changes in properties which have been brought about by grafting to cellulose are viscoelasticity, stereoregularity, hygroscopicity, water repellency, improved adhesion to a variety of substances, settability, soil resistance, bacteriocidal properties, and thermal stability.