Polypropylene derivatives

The paper brings a brief survey of the direct chemical methods for preparation of polypropylene (PP) derivatives, using mostly peroxides, UV or gamma irradiation and, in some cases, also strong acidic reagents for formation of precursors of binding the functional groups or side chains on the PP backbone. By this means, sulfonated, chlorinated, carboxylated, hydroperoxidated PP as the examples of functionalized PP's, can be prepared. As examples of binding side chains to the PP, the grafting of PP with unsaturated monomers like styrene, methyl methacrylate, acrylates, maleic anhydride, and its derivatives are described. The application of PP derivatives and their importance in preparation of polymer blends and composites is illustrated.