Diacyl derivatives of polyether polymers

A compound according to Formula I below:

• wherein R1 is optionally substituted C1-C12 alkyl;
• R2 is selected from hydrogen, and C1-C6 alkyl, or M, wherein in M is a monovalent or divalent cation (e.g., a metal ion, ammonium ion, or quaternary ammonium ion);
• X is selected from optionally substituted C1-C12 alkyl, optionally substituted C2-12 alkenyl, optionally substituted C2-12 alkynyl, optionally substituted C3-C12 cycloalkyl, optionally substituted C3-C12 cycloalkenyl, and optionally substituted aryl (e.g., phenyl or biphenyl);
• and
• n is an integer between 0 and 20 (e.g., 0-5).