Structure–PropertyRelationships for a Seriesof Poly(ester amide)s Containing Amino Acids.

Poly(ester amide)s (PEAs) composedof variable diols, dicarboxylicacids, and α-amino acids were synthesized and characterizedto elucidate structure–property relationships. The PEAs weresynthesized using both solution and interfacial approaches to obtainvarying molecular weights (MWs) and polydispersities. Studies usingdifferential scanning calorimetry and powder X-ray diffraction revealeda range of amorphous and semicrystalline behavior that was dependenton structure. The viscosities of the PEAs as a function of temperaturewere studied by rheology, and phase transitions were confirmed forsome polymers. Mechanical properties were also investigated, and itwas found that the PEAs could be tuned to exhibit elastomeric or brittlebehavior by varying both the length of the diol and the amino acidmoiety. This information provides new insights into the effects ofPEA structure, MW, and MW distribution on PEA properties and willaid in the design and selection of PEAs with optimal properties fortargeted applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]