Biodegradable polymers of lactones

Homopolymers and copolymers of lactones are prepared byring-opening polymerization of a mixture of lactones which includesa monolactone, such as .epsilon.-caprolactone, and a dilactone,such as bis-2,2-(.epsilon.-caprolacton-4-yl)propane, which iscapable of forming crosslinks. The resulting polymers range fromtough and partially crystalline to amorphous, elastomericmaterials, depending on the monomer composition and proportions.Additionally, these polymers may be designed to achieve differentdegrees of permeability and rates of biodegradation. As such, theyare useful for the controlled delivery of medicinal agents and assurgical aids and temporary artificial biomaterials such as skinsubstitutes and burn dressings.