Description

Propanoic Acid, 2-Hydroxy-, Homopolymer is a high-purity synthetic polymer derived from lactic acid, a key building block for biocompatible materials. This compound matters for its excellent biodegradability, biocompatibility, and versatile material properties, making it a cornerstone for sustainable industrial solutions. It is critically needed by manufacturers in the medical device, pharmaceutical, packaging, and textile industries seeking advanced, eco-friendly polymer alternatives.

Application

• Medical Devices & Implants: Used in the manufacture of bioresorbable sutures, surgical meshes, orthopedic fixation devices (pins, screws), and drug delivery matrices.
• Controlled Drug Delivery: Serves as a key excipient in the formulation of microspheres, nanoparticles, and implants for sustained or targeted release of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
• Eco-Friendly Packaging: A primary material for producing compostable films, rigid containers, and coatings as an alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics.
• 3D Printing (Additive Manufacturing): Utilized as a filament or resin in fused deposition modeling (FDM) and stereolithography (SLA) for creating custom biomedical models and prototypes.
• Textile & Nonwoven Fabrics: Employed in the production of biodegradable fibers for agricultural textiles, hygiene products, and specialty filters.
• Adhesives & Coatings: Functions as a base polymer for formulating biodegradable adhesives and protective coatings with specific degradation profiles.

Basic Information

Product Name	Propanoic Acid, 2-Hydroxy-, Homopolymer
CAS No.	26100-51-6
Molecular Formula	(C₃H₄O₂)ₙ
Molecular Weight	Varies (Polymer)
Synonyms	Polylactic Acid; PLA; Poly(lactic acid); Poly(L-lactide); Poly(DL-lactide); Polylactide; (S)-2-Hydroxypropanoic acid homopolymer; Lactic acid polymer
EINECS	Contact for details

Quality Control

Our Propanoic Acid, 2-Hydroxy-, Homopolymer is manufactured under strict quality management systems. Each batch is tested to ensure compliance with relevant pharmacopeial standards (such as USP monographs) and industry specifications for medical and food contact applications. A comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing parameters like inherent viscosity, residual monomer, molecular weight distribution, and optical purity is provided with every shipment.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at a controlled room temperature (typically 15-25°C). This material is hygroscopic (moisture-sensitive); prolonged exposure to high humidity should be avoided to prevent hydrolysis and molecular weight degradation.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	White to off-white pellets or powder
Identification (IR)	Conforms
Inherent Viscosity (dl/g)	0.5 - 6.0 (Grade dependent)
Residual Monomer (Lactic Acid)	< 0.5%
Molecular Weight (Mw)	10,000 - 300,000 (Grade dependent)
Melting Point (DSC)	150 - 180 °C
Optical Purity (L-Isomer)	> 95% (for PLLA grades)
Heavy Metals	< 10 ppm
Residual Solvents	Meets ICH guidelines

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.