Synthesis and characterization of isosorbide bis -phosphorus esters

The synthesis of polymers and polymer additives from renewable biosources is of increasing interest. Products based on biosources offer independence from the uncertainty and fluctuation in petrochemical markets and may offer clear advantages over petrochemical counterparts in terms of toxicity, biodegradability, and environmental impact. Isosorbide is a diether diol available from glucose which may be obtained from starch produced by a variety of seed crops. Isosorbide may be converted to a variety of bis-phosphorus esters (phosphinate, phosphonate, phosphate) using either direct phosphorylation or the Atherton-Todd procedure.