Model networks based on poly(1,3‐dioxolane)

Abstract

Abstract Polyurethane networks whose elastic chains are constituted of hydrophilic poly(1,3‐dioxolane) of well‐defined molecular weight were synthesized using an end‐linking process. The poly(1,3‐dioxolane) (PDXL) precursor polymers, fitted with OH functions at both chain ends, were prepared cationically in the presence of ethylene glycol. The latter compound is involved in the initiation reaction and provides the OH functions at the chain ends. The end‐linking process, leading to the formation of the poly(1,3‐dioxolane) network, involves the reaction of the precursor with a stoichiometric amount of a plurifunctional isocyanate, under conditions that minimize defects. The swelling behavior of the poly(1,3‐dioxolane) networks is compared with that of poly(ethylene oxide) networks previously studied.