The formation of propylene fumarate oligomers for use in bioerodible bone cement composites

Poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF) oligomers were synthesized by step polymerization using bis(2‐hydroxypropyl fumarate) or propylene bis(hydrogen maleate) as starting materials. Oligomers possessing identical degrees of polymerization (DP), but varying in their end group character (either hydroxyl or carboxyl) were first prepared and characterized, then used as part of a bone cement preparation consisting of oligomer, tricalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, and methyl methacrylate. Compressive strength of the resulting composite appeared to be dependent on both the degree of polymerization of the PPF, and the nature of the oligomers' end groups.