Abstract: Processes using alpha, omega-difunctional aldaramides as monomers and crosslinkers are disclosed. The processes can be used to form polymers, particularly crosslinked polymers.

Abstract: Alpha, omega-difunctional aldaramides, in particular diaminoaldaramides, dihydroxyaldaramides, bis(alkoxycarbonylalkyl)aldaramides, and bis(carboxyalkyl)aldaramides, and processes for preparing the aldaramides are provided.

Abstract: Tissue adhesives formed by crosslinking albumin and/or gelatin with certain polyamines and/or polycarboxylates using a water-soluble carbodiimide are disclosed. The use of the tissue adhesives for medical and veterinary applications such as topical wound closure; and surgical procedures, such as intestinal anastomosis, vascular anastomosis, tissue repair, and ophthalmic procedures; drug delivery; anti-adhesive applications; and as a bulking agent to treat urinary incontinence are described.

Abstract: Aldaric acids, aldonic acids, and their corresponding salts are cyclized to the corresponding lactone or dilactone using gas sparging to remove water.

Abstract: Processes for making lactones and dilactones from aldaric acids, aldonic acids, and their corresponding salts by dehydrative cyclization and azeotropic distillation. The processes can be carried out in the presence of water because water is removed by azeotropic distillation.

Abstract: Processes for preparing crosslinked polymers using biomass derived materials, such as aldaric acids and derivatives, are provided. The polymers can be used as hydrogels.

Abstract: Novel, crosslinked polymers using biomass derived materials, such as aldaric acids and derivatives, are provided. The polymers can be used as hydrogels and in antimicrobial compositions.