Synthesis and characterization of biodegradable polymer from mixed carbohydrate and maleic anhydride as precursor

The synthesis of polymer from carbohydrates sorbitol and white dextrin with maleic anhydride using HCl as catalyst is carried out. The polymer obtained has an average molar mass of 1850 g/mol; this and other physico chemical properties of this polymer are presented. The polymer is analysed by IR and NMR spectral studies to possess the ester group. The polymer is found to be useful in detergent formulation.