New Biodegradable Polymers from Renewable Sources – Segmented Copolyesters of Poly(1,3-Propanediol Succinate) and Poly(Ethylene Glycol)

Abstract

New high-molecular-weight hydrophobic/hydrophilic segmented copolymers of poly(ester-ether-carbonate) structure, containing poly(1,3-propylene succinate) (SP) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) segments in the main chain, were synthesized and characterized. These copolymers were obtained by a two-step chain-extension reaction performed by the thermal polycondensation of αω-dihydroxy-oligo(1,3-propylene succinate) with PEG1000 and PEG2000, respectively. The molecular structure of all the synthesized materials was characterized by ¹H-NMR, by SEC for molecular weights, and by DSC for thermal properties. The molecular characterizations were in agreement with the proposed structures. Solubility and swellability tests indicated that the introduction of hydrophilic PEG segments into the high molecular weight poly(1,3-propylene succinate)s imparted amphiphilic character to the new materials. This is expected to influence the biocompatibility and biodegradability of these materials. The new polymers, besides having a degradable backbone, were derived from the monomers, 1,3-propanediol and succinic acid, which are both obtainable from renewable sources. Therefore, they have a potential as environmental friendly materials.

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