N-acylated poly(amino esters) (PAEs) synthesised via organocatalytic ring-opening polymerisation (ROP) are promising materials for functional and degradable applications. A research team has now developed a universal monomer precursor for N-acylated 1,4-oxazepan-7-ones (OxPs) through a three-step synthesis, allowing the introduction of various functional groups. Two novel oxidation-sensitive OxP monomers bearing a double bond or a sulphide group were designed, along with two monomers containing alkyl moieties. Reading tip: Bio-based coatingsThe EC Tech Report “Bio-based Coatings” is a hand-picked compilation of all the key aspects concerning bio-based coatings, offering the latest technical developments. In addition, the (bio)degradability of the N-acylated PAEs was evaluated under mild enzymatic catalysis, in neutral phosphate-buffered saline solution and under accelerated conditions.