Rapid approaches to hyperbranched polyethers and functional polyether-based materials: Recent progress in an established field of polymer science

 
Although poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(propylene glycol) are highly established materials for a large variety of pharmaceutical and medical applications as well as for polyurethanes, copolymerization with functional epoxide monomers still offers access to a vast range of new materials that preserve the advantageous properties of polyethers (flexibility, aqueous solubility in case of PEG, excellent biocompatibility for many derivatives). Copolymerization also brings about new options for linear and branched polyethers due to functional side chains. For instance, ultrahigh molecular weight hyperbranched PEG copolymers with up to 2000 hydroxyl groups are accessible by copolymerization of ethylene oxide and glycidol. PEG bearing multiple complexing moieties is promising in view of its high metal-binding capability and strong surface interaction. High functionality in combination with low viscosity and broad solubility in formulations render these polymers attractive for coatings applications.