Hyperbranched Polymers Based on Aliphatic Polyesters

Hyperbranched polymers together with dendrimers belong to the class of three-dimensional macromolecules called dendritic polymers. Due to their complex structure and specific properties, these polymers have attracted large scientific attention over the last twenty years. Although, hyperbranched polymers are randomly branched, have broad molar mass distribution and less perfect globular shape, they resemble dendrimers in many physical and chemical properties and can be used in applications where tedious synthesis of dendrimers can be avoided. However, the full application potentials of hyperbranched polymers will not be achieved before complete understanding of the relation between their molecular structure and properties. Therefore, the author Jasna Vukovic has presented in this book a detailed investigation of the influence of the synthesis procedure (one-step or pseudo-one-step), number of pseudo generation, degree of branching and type of end groups on the structure and properties in solution, melt and solid state of the synthesized and commercial aliphatic hyperbranched polyesters. Adequate theoretical background is also presented.