Polyanhydrides: the effects of ring substitution changes on polymer properties

We synthesized polymers that overcome the processing problems associated with aromatic polyanhydrides. In this paper, we focus on the synthesis and characterization of ortho-substituted polyanhydrides, poly[1,3-bis(o-carboxyphenoxy)propane anhydride] (o-CPP) and poly[1,6-bis(o-carboxyphenoxy) hexane anhydride] (p-CPH). By lengthening the alkyl chain between aryl groups (from propane to hexane) and changing the ring substitution pattern from para- to ortho-, we observed enhanced solubility of aromatic polyanhydrides. Ultimately, these polyanhydrides may be useful as polymer scaffolds for use as functional soft tissue substitutes.