Acrylate side chains containing a photocromic azobenzene group (Disperse Red 1, DR1) grafted onto different polymer matrices: polypropylene (PP), low density polyethylene (PE), polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) and polycarbonate CR-39 (PC), were prepared by gamma radiation of polymer films in toluene solutions of acryloyl chloride in Pyrex ampoules sealed in vacuum, and then esterified with DR1 in presence of triethylamine. Comparison of photochemical properties of the different systems, as well as thermal stability and surface morphology were studied.