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A series of poly(p‐dioxanone‐urethane) (PPDO‐PU) copolymers were produced by chain extending reaction of poly(p‐dioxanone) (PPDO) diol with 1,6‐hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) and toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate (TDI). The chain structure of the copolymers can be easily controlled by varying the molecular weight of PPDO diol and the structure of diisocyanate. Several instruments such as DSC, POM, TG, and Capillary Rheometer have been employed to investigate the structure–properties relationship of PPDO‐PU copolymers. The results show that varying the structure and the content of chain extenders will influence the crystallization behavior, thermal stability, mechanical performance, and rheological behavior of the products significantly. The insertion of urethane groups into PPDO polymer chains enhances the mechanical performance of the copolymers.

This paper reviews the synthesis, properties, and applications of biodegradable polymer, poly(p-dioxanone) (PPDO), and its copolymers. Recent progress in ring-opening polymerization of p-dioxanone employing several effective catalysts is described. Properties of PPDO are given. The copolymers based on PPDO are also discussed.