Synthesis and Characterization of Segmented Hydrosoluble Poly(Tartaraide)s

Segmented poly(tartaramide)s were prepared by polycondensation of monodispersed α,ω-diaminooligo(ethyleneglycol)s, with oligomerization degree included between 2 and 6, with two optically active dialkyl tartrates. The diamines were obtained from the relevant commercial glycols using a modified Gabriel synthesis. The polycondensations were performed in methanol at 55°C with triethylamine as catalyst. By this route, optically active poly(tartaramide)s, with oligomerization degree in the 4-10 range, were obtained in fairly high yields. Solubility and thermal properties of the polycondensation products were found to be related to the length of the oligo(oxyethylene) segment and to the presence of free hydroxyl groups.