The classification and application of cyclodextrin polymers: a review

The design and construction of polymer structures play important roles in the field of polymer science. In addition, polymers can provide good ideas and opportunities for the development of multifunctional materials. Cyclodextrins (CDs), connected by α-1.4-glycosidic bonds, possess hydrophobic cavities and hydrophilic surfaces. Due to the special structure of CDs, it is possible to generate polymers with different structures and functions via chemical reactions. This review describes the classification of CD polymers as well as summarizes the applications of these polymers in environmental, food, and pharmaceutical industries. Finally, the challenges that the CD polymers may face in the future have been proposed. After introducing the concept of cyclodextrin polymers, their classification and applications have been summarized.