Abstract
The star-like copolymers containing polylactide core and poly(propylene maleate) arms have been synthesized in two steps. The polylactide segments of Mn in the range 1000–8500 terminated either by OH or COOH functional groups were prepared by melt condensation of L-lactic acid in the presence of pentaerythritol, or 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid. Selected products were applied as coinitiators and chain transfer agents in the copolymerization of maleic anhydride with propylene oxide catalyzed by magnesium ethoxide or metal salen complexes. Four-arm stars of Mw in the range 11000–35000 have been prepared. Thermal analysis revealed a lower Tg for the copolymers compared to polylactide core.
Acknowledgments
This work was carried out within the project co-financed by the European Union–European Regional Development Fund under Operation Program Innovative Economy–BIOPOL POIG.01.01.02-10-025/09 “Technology of preparation of biodegradable polyesters from renewable resources.”