Polyanhydrides: the effects of ring substitution changes on polymer properties

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