Poly(lactic acid) biopolymer composites and nanocomposites for biomedicals and biopackaging applications

Polymeric biomaterials are preferred choices in developing materials for therapeutic devices such as temporary prostheses, three-dimensional porous structures, e.g. scaffolds for tissue engineering and as controlled/sustained release drug delivery vehicles and also films for food packaging. Each of these applications demands materials with specific physical, chemical, biological, biomechanical, and degradation properties in order to provide efficient therapy. This chapter highlights the biomedical and biopackaging applications of polylactide (PLA) in recent time. The biopolymers have received increased attention in the past three decades because of its eco-friendly properties, in addition to its excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. PLA has found wide applications in medical, food, and packaging industries. To further widen these applications, PLA is blended with other biodegradable polymer and compounded with natural fibers and nanoparticles, especially clay. The advanced technology in PLA material preparation placed PLA above all other biopolyesters. In this chapter, the rationale behind the success of PLA so far is x-rayed.