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Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a thermoplastic biodegradable polyester, which has had biomedical application in the 1970s and 1980s as a long-term drug delivery systems, which then gained acceptance from the Food and Drugs Administration. However, due to very slow degradation, PCL was replaced by faster degrading polymers, such as polyglycolide, polylactides and their copolymers. The polymer gained popularity again in the 1990s, together with the development of tissue engineering. This book discusses the properties, applications and examines new research of polycaprolactones.

Biodegradable polymers from renewable resources are sought after for many purposes, from packaging materials in food to biomedical applications. Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) is a well-known biopolymer derived from corn starch or sugar cane used in different food packaging and artificial bones and scaffolds. Poly(lactic acid) Science and Technology first introduces the basic concepts of PLA and then covers PLA synthesis and polymerization, processing, characterization and physical properties of PLA, PLA-based nano-biocomposites, the main applications in active packaging and as biomaterials for tissue engineering, degradation and biodegradation of PLA and finally industrial and legislative issues. This interdisciplinary approach provides readers with a general overview of all relevant aspects related to PLA including fundamental issues, innovative applications, new types of processing and emerging applications, modification of PLA, life cycle assessment, bio-additives, bio/degradation and sustainability and international regulations. Experts provide a complete resource and whole perspective on PLA covering scientific, ecological, social and economic issues. The book will appeal to chemists, food technologists and materials engineers as well as researchers interested in bio-based and biodegradable polymers and composites.

Polylactic Acid (PLA) is the first viable thermoplastic that can be produced from a plant-based feedstock such as corn or sugar cane, and yet be processed by the conventional melt processing technologies. At the same time, Polylactic Acid is produced at the largest industrial scale of all biodegradable polymers. It is being used in biomedical applications, for bottle production and in compostable food packaging. It is also being evaluated as a material for tissue engineering. Mass production has tremendously reduced the cost of PLA production, making it an economically viable choice for fabrication of domestic containers, plastic bags, and fibers. Commercial-scale plants today produce hundreds of thousand tons of PLA per year.This book provides a practical guide for the engineers and scientists involved in working with PLA and developing the many new products that are emerging for this important biopolymer. The current market situation for PLA and biodegradable polymers is described as well as applications across a range of market sectors, and the mechanical, chemical, thermal, rheology, and degradation properties of PLA. An essential reference for engineers, scientists and product designers considering switching to a sustainable plastic Covers the properties, synthesis and polymerization of PLA, and processing techniques involved in fabricating parts from this polymer

This book describes the synthesis, properties and applications of PLA through fourteen original chapters that will guide the reader through a fascinating journey into the world of PLA, providing interesting insights for those who intend to use this polymer for innovative applications, or simply those who want to learn more about this very important biodegradable and bio-based plastic. PLA biodegradability introduces this polymer in a world of eco-friendly and human-friendly applications in several technological fields. In short, this book will appeal to all the readers who not only want to hav.

Polylactides are aliphatic polyesters derived from lactic acid, and various derivatives thereof, and are one of the most promising of polymers based on starting materials available from renewable resources. Materials based on these polymers are at the cutting edge of progress in sustainable materials science. This book provides an overview of the latest developments in a number of aspects of polylactice research. Chapters cover synthesis using novel catalysts and modified monomers, new copolymers, blends of polylactides with other polymers, stereocomplexes and nanocomposites. The information contained therein will be of interest to all involved in the development of polylactides and other polymers based on sustainable resources, with discussions on how to modify and improve these materials to expand their capabilities even further.

This book focuses on biodegradable polymers that are already in clinical use or under clinical development. Synthetic and natural polymers will be included. This excludes polymers that have been investigated and did not reach clinical development. The purpose of this book is to provide updated status of the polymers that are clinical use and those that are now being developed for clinical use and hopefully will reach the clinic during the next 5 years. The book provides information that of interest to academics and practicing researchers including chemists, biologists and bioengineers and users: physicians, pharmacists.

This book describes the synthesis, properties, and processing methods of poly(lactic acid) (PLA), an important family of degradable plastics. As the need for environmentally-friendly packaging materials increases, consumers and companies are in search for new materials that are largely produced from renewable resources, and are recyclable. To that end, an overall theme of the book is the biodegradability, recycling, and sustainability benefits of PLA. The chapters, from a base of international expert contributors, describe specific processing methods, spectroscopy techniques for PLA analysis, and and applications in medical items, packaging, and environmental use.

Interest in biodegradable and absorbable polymers is growing rapidly in large part because of their biomedical implant and drug delivery applications. This text illustrates creative approaches to custom designing unique, fiber-forming materials for equally unique applications. It includes an example of the development and application of a new absor