Derivatization of a new poly(ether urethane amide) containing chemically active sites

A novel poly(ether urethane amide) was synthesized by chain-extending the prepolymer with fumaric acid, resulting in a polymer exhibiting superior mechanical properties and containing chemically active derivatization sites, stemming from the fumaramide double bond. The derivatization of the active sites was performed via a Michael-like addition of amine-terminated poly(ethylene oxide) chains, which when performed in bulk, greatly affected the mechanical properties of the polymer, except in the case in which a relatively high molecular weight was grafted. Surface grafting of the polymer led to a significantly lower effect on its mechanical properties, which was minimal when a high molecular weight molecule was used.