Synthesis and characterization of polylactide functionalized polyacetylenes

► Poly(l-lactide)-derived acetylene monomers and graft copolymers were synthesized. ► Introducing polyacetylene backbone into poly(l-lactide) increases polymer stability. ► Length of poly(l-lactide) side chains influences thermal degradation of copolymer. ► Thermal stability of copolymer depends on poly(l-lactide) homopolymer impurity.