Synthesis and characterization of poly(D,L-lactide-co-cyclic carbonate)s with hydroxyl pendant functional groups

A six-member cyclic carbonate with protected functional groups was synthesized from tetramethylolmethane, benzaldehyde and ethyl choroformate. Coplymerization of D,L-lactide with cyclic carbonate was carried out through conventional ring-opening polymerization using Sri (Oct)(2) as the catalyst. The effects of different catalysts, polymerization time and monomer-to-catalyst molar ratio on the molecular weight were investigated. The methods of removing protected groups were studied. Results showed the protected groups were effectively removed via catalytic hydrogenation. Poly(D,L-lactide-co-cycliccarbonate)s with hydroxyl pendant functional groups was obtained.