Telechelic biocidal poly(2-oxazoline)s and polycations

Antimicrobial polymers are an important alternative to low molecular weight antibiotics and biocides. While most of such polymers are controlled in their activity by the nature of the backbone, telechelic biocidal polymers are controlled by their end groups. Here, polymers - mostly poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline)s - with a biocidal quaternary ammonium end group are discussed regarding their activity, the satellite group effect, and their application in contact-active antimicrobial surfaces and materials. Also the control of other end group functions, such as antibiotics and the end group effects on polycations are discussed.