Hyperbranched Polymers

Abstract

Abstract Hyperbranched polymers are polymers based on A x B‐monomers, ie, monomers having one B‐functionality and two or more A‐groups resulting in polymers with a potential branching point in each repeat unit. The properties of hyperbranched polymers have been shown to depend on several parameters, the most important ones ate the backbone and the end‐group structure in combination. The properties of hyperbranched polymers differ from linear polymers, for example, the solubility, which is much higher for hyperbranched polymers. Attachment of reactive end‐groups in various amounts leads to thermoset structures where the T g and cross‐link density can be greatly varied for the same hyperbranched polymer. A wide variety of hyperbranched polymers has been described in the literature. The synthesis of hyperbranched polymers can be done in several different ways. Classical condensation reactions are the most commonly used. The condensation reactions are either made in bulk or in solution where the A x B‐monomers are condensed by themselves or in combination with a B y ‐core monomer. Another approach to the synthesis of hyperbranched polymers is the use of self‐condensing vinyl polymerization which is a way of using vinyl‐functional monomers to obtain hyperbranched polymers.