Aspects of determining the molecular weight of cyclodextrin polymers and oligomers by static light scattering

Methodic issues affecting the use of static light scattering to determine the average molecular weight of cyclodextrin poly- and oligomers are discussed. The critical features which enable accurate measurement such as aggregation behavior and segment–segment interaction are elucidated. Static light scattering data supported with globule size and aggregate state analysis (as determined by dynamic light scattering) allowed the aggregate-free state of the samples to be justified and the ideal globular conformation of the macromolecules to be corroborated. These molecular characteristics were demonstrated for uncharged, charged and fluorescent randomly crosslinked water soluble cyclodextrin poly- and oligomers.