The polymerization behavior of a new class of dimethacrylated anhydride monomers that react to form highly cross-linked degradable networks was investigated using various photoinitiation schemes. Polymerizations occurred in seconds to minutes depending on the initiating conditions, and conversions in excess of 0.95 were achievable. A photobleaching visible light initiating system was used to improve the depth of cure for the production of polymers with appreciable dimensions. One potential application for the proposed multifunctional monomers is in vivo curing of high-strength, degradable polymers for fracture fixation or filling of trabecular bone defects.

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