The present invention relates to the development of hydrophobically modified polymers [HMPs], which have emerged as promising materials in diverse fields such as paints, cosmetics, oils, food and textiles. They are used as thickeners in these applications. In our study, the hydrophobic modification on PAA was performed using hydrophobic compounds obtained from naturally occurring materials such as Cashew Nut Shell Liquid, [CNSL]. The DCCI coupling method was chosen for the hydrophobic modification of PAA. A series of hydrophobically modified PAAs were synthesized with different degrees of hydrophobic contents and were characterized by solution rheology.