Synthesis and Characterization of Fumarate Copolyesters for Use in Bioresorbable Bone Cement Compositions

Abstract

Unsaturated amorphous copolyesters of varied composition were prepared by transesterification copolymerization of diethyl fumarate, and two diols, 1,2‐propanediol and 2‐methyl‐1,3‐propanediol. The copolyesters were characterized by IR, ¹H‐ and ¹³C‐NMR, GPC, DSC, and TGA. The glass transition is changing with composition from 0°C to 19°C as the content of 1,2‐propanediol residue in the copolyester increases. The copolyester structure and composition have an impact on the compressive strength and hydrolytic stability of the composites prepared by crosslinking the fumarate double bonds with N‐vinyl pyrrolidone in the presence of inorganic filler, calcium sulfate dihydrate, with the addition of a radical initiator, benzoyl peroxide, at ambient temperatures.

Keywords:

• fumarate copolyesters
• bioresorbable bone cement compositions

Acknowledgements

We are grateful to acknowledge that the project was partly supported by the research and equipment grants from NIH, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases through grant R15 AR45556‐01A1, the DePaul University Research Council, and Office of Sponsored Programs and Research. We would like to thank Dr. Michael J. Yaszemski of the Mayo Clinic for helpful discussions.