Polymers are huge molecules made up of many smaller molecules, as opposed to monomers, such as water and sodium chloride (salt). Nanotechnology often makes use of polymers, and particularly keen attention is being focused on a class of polymers known as dendrimers.

Composed of smaller components known as dendrons, which are structured like the spreading branches of a tree, dendrimers are able to encapsulate other substances and also show excellent water solubility. These properties have prompted research into their application as molecular containers for drug delivery systems. Because their size, structure, shape and direction of joints can be easily controlled, dendrimers also hold great promise in electronics, as well as in applications involving photocatalysts and sensors. Their potential for application in so many fields makes dendrimers one of the most attractive types of nanomaterials around.