The synthesis of cellulose graft copolymers using a vinyl addition type graft reaction procedure is described. Cellulose acetate (D.S. 2.37) was first mercaptoethylated and then reacted with styrene in the presence of benzoyl peroxide. The degree of grafting was varied. Grafting was confirmed by IR spectroscopy. The copolymers were smoothly deacetylated with NaOMe. The deacetylated products were readily degraded by cellulysin.