Synthesis and solution properties of zwitterionic polymers

The methods of synthesis of both polyampholyte and polybetaine polymers are reviewed. As well as general synthethic methods for their preparation, the solution behavior and some potential applications that these polymers may possess are examined. It is demonstrated that both polyampholytes and polybetaines can exhibit polyelectrolyte or antipolyelectrolyte behavior, depending on the composition, solution pH, and added low molecular weight electrolyte.