Polymer Hybrids Based on Polyolefins – Syntheses, Structures, and Properties

Recent advances in polyolefin chemistry have led to the creation of polymer hybrid linking between different polymer segments to broaden their applications towards use in highly profitable fields. Synthesized polymer hybrids based on polyolefins are expected to possess the properties of each polymer segment. Several methodologies have been reported for the preparation of polyolefin hybrids which employ processes, such as radical, anionic, cationic polymerizations, and post-polymerization reactions, bringing certain improved and unique properties to ordinary polyolefins. These new polymer hybrids can be synthesized using functionalized polyolefins, such as polyolefin (PO) macroinitiator, PO macromonomer, and reactive PO. Synthesized polymer hybrids based on PO, with a well-defined molecular structure, show excellent properties compared to conventional POs, including compatibility and mechanical strength.