https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.15278
Polymer composed of macromolecules containing carboxylic ester linkages in the backbone: \[\ce{-O-CO\bond{-}}\]
Notes:
- A polyester comprising unsaturated constitutional units such as a polyester prepared from maleic anhydride or from but-2-yne-1,4-diol is referred to as an unsaturated polyester.
- A polyester prepared from a polyol (typically a triol or tetrol), and a mixture of dicarboxylic anhydrides and fatty acids (e.g., linseed oil or tall oil) is referred to as an alkyd polymer or alkyd. Structure motifs of an alkyd polymer prepared from phthalic anhydride, glycerol, pentaerythritol [2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)propane-1,3-diol], and fatty acids are shown below (MU stands for monomeric unit):
- Polycarbonates, polythioesters, and unsaturated polyesters are subclasses of polyesters.
- A polymer containing only pendent ester groups is excluded, for example, an acrylic polymer.
Examples: 