The influence of the functional end groups on the properties of polylactide-based materials
Bartłomiej Kost, Małgorzata Baśko, Melania Bednarek, Marta Socka, Bartosz Kopka, Grzegorz Łapienis, Tadeusz Biela, Przemysław Kubisa, Marek Brzeziński
Abstract
Polylactide (PLA) is one of the most important polymer and is used for the production of biodegradable materials. High-molecular-weight PLA is applied mainly for the manufacture of disposable consumer goods. In contrast, lower- or medium-molecular-weight polymers usually find applications in medicine for controlled drug release systems or implants. Most importantly, the properties of low- and medium-molecular-weight PLAs are strongly dependent on the nature of the end group. To adequately address this issue, this review summarizes the various structures of PLA end groups as well as the methods of their modification and characterization. The appropriate functionalization of PLA macromolecules is extremely important since it allows control of hydrolytic and thermal degradation, PLA self-assembly, and their interactions with nanosized particles or metal ions. In addition, the drug release from PLA-based particles can be adjusted by end group modification. The improved end-use properties of PLA-based materials by chain-end functionalization are desirable for their applications as drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, and electronic sensors. Therefore, the advantages and limitations of PLA end group modification are discussed. Special attention is given to the preparation of supramolecular PLA materials with the ability to respond to even mild environmental alteration or to undergo self-healing. Finally, an outlook regarding establishing the influence of PLA end groups on the properties of PLA-based materials is presented, and perspectives of this emerging area are discussed.