A series of linear polyamides (PnMLM) derived from O-methyl-protected L-malic acid and l,n-alkanediamines with even n values ranging from 4 to 12 were prepared and fully characterized. L-Malic acid entered in the chain with a random orientation rendering essentially aregic polymers. PnMLM displayed optical rotation consistent with the content of the polymer in malic units, and they all were crystalline with melting points ranging from 158 to 188 degreesC and glass-transition temperatures varying from 37 to 70 degreesC. PnMLM appeared to be fairly stable to heat with thermal decomposition starting close to 300 degreesC. Hydrolytic degradation of PnMLM at 37 degreesC was slow, but the process was significantly faster at 70 degreesC. Thermal degradation took place with the formation of cyclic malimides in the residual polymer and released the l,n-alkanediamine. However, hydrolytic degradation took place in a first stage with the formation of open chains of carboxylic- and amine-ended oligomers. (C) 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.