Films of poly (L - lactic acid) / poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) blends: in vitro degradation

Abstract

Biocompatible and biodegradable polymers have been studied in the last few years with good clinical success in the fixation and stabilization of bone fractures. The understanding and the control of the polymeric prosthetic degradation process and the effect of its degradation products in the organism are crucial for the success of the implant. In this present work, blends of PLLA/PHBV, obtained in several compositions by casting of solvent, obtaining samples in the form of films. The samples were characterized by the analysis of TGA, DSC, DMA and SEM. The results obtained showed that the PLLA/PHBV blends are immiscible, and present a discrete separation by microscopy. The blends obtained showed porous fracture surfaces. It is noticed that PLLA begins its degradation in a few weeks (around 2 weeks), unlike PHBV, where it was possible to observe eventual degradation up to 53 weeks. It was also observed that the blend increased its crystallinity with degradation.