Low-Molecular-Weight Poly(α-methylβ,L-malate) of Microbial Origin: Synthesis and Crystallization

Abstract
Summary: Low‐molecular‐weight poly(α‐methyl β,L‐malate) made of approximately 25–30 units was prepared from microbial poly(β,L‐malic acid) by treatment with diazomethane. The thermal characterization of the polymalate methyl ester was carried out and its crystalline structure was preliminary examined. Its ability to crystallize both from solution and from the melt was comparatively evaluated. Poly(α‐methyl β,L‐malate) spherulitic film cast from CHCl3.