Preparation and evaluation of some water-soluble polyester surfactants

A novel series of water-soluble polyester surfactants were prepared by the polymerization of bis-1,4-(dicarboxymethoxy) benzene, maleic anhydride, and oxypropylated 1,4-butane diol (IP₁–IP₅) or oxypropylated 1,6-hexane diol (IIP₁–IIP₅). The unique structural features of these surfactants were confirmed by IR and ¹H-NMR spectra. These water-soluble polyester surfactants exhibited excellent surface tension, interfacial tension, low foaming, good emulsifier capability, and good biodegradability in river water, solubilization, wetting, and dispersant properties for applied dyes. The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of the prepared polyester surfactants were measured and found to be highly active. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 81: 3413–3424, 2001