Dendrimer, illustration of the molecular structure. Dendrimers are artificially created branched polymers and subbranches along a central backbone of carbon atoms, usually extending from a central atom or ring of atoms. Also called cascade molecule. Due to the high degree of molecular customisation during synthesis, they may one day be used for a variety of applications, such as nanotechnology, drug delivery systems, nanoscale batteries, lubricants, catalysts and herbicides.