Combination of ring-opening polymerization and "click" chemistry towards functionalization of aliphatic polyesters.

Azide pendent groups of aliphatic polyesters have been derivatized into tertiary amines, ammonium salts and poly(ethylene oxide) grafts. The experimental conditions have been optimized (organic solvent, 35 degrees C), such that the aliphatic polyesters are not degraded, including even poly(lactide) which is very sensitive to attack by weak nucleophiles.