Poly(phosphoester)s: A New Platform for Degradable Polymers

Poly(phosphoester)s (PPEs) play an important role in nature. They structure and determine life in the form of deoxy- and ribonucleic acid (DNA and RNA), and, as pyrophosphates, they store up chemical energy in organisms. Polymer chemistry, however, is dominated by the nondegradable polyolefins and degradable poly(carboxylic ester)s (PCEs) that are produced on a large scale today. Recent studies have illustrated the potential of PPEs for future applications beyond flame retardancy, and provided a coherent vision to implement this classic biopolymer in modern applications that demand biocompatibility and degradability as well as the possibility to adjust the properties to individual needs. Polymers with potential: Poly(phosphoester)s play an important role in nature (DNA, RNA, and pyrophosphates), but in contrast to classical polyesters they are rarely used for everyday applications. Recent developments are highlighted that may make phosphorus-based polymers attractive materials for future applications.