Poly(Glycolide-co-L-lactide) 90:10
Synonyms: PGLA 90:10 or Polyglactin 910
CAS No: 30846-39-0
Intrinsic viscosity: 1.4-2.0 dl/g
Appearance: yellow particle
Minimal order quantity: 30 gram
Polyglactin 910 (PGLA 910) is a biodegradable polymer material composed of a copolymer of glycolide and L-lactide, typically in a 90:10 ratio. This synthetic polymer is widely used in the medical field, primarily as a raw material for manufacturing absorbable sutures. Due to its controlled hydrolytic degradation, PGLA polymer provides a predictable absorption profile, making it ideal for biomedical applications where temporary mechanical support is required. The degradation process occurs through hydrolysis, breaking down into biocompatible byproducts that are safely metabolized by the body.
The mechanical properties of PGLA polymer, including its tensile strength and flexibility, make it suitable for medical-grade fiber production. Manufacturers of absorbable sutures prefer PGLA due to its superior handling characteristics, low tissue reactivity, and reliable degradation profile. Unlike natural suture materials such as catgut, PGLA offers enhanced predictability in absorption time, typically between 56 and 70 days, ensuring adequate wound support during the critical healing phase.
Beyond its primary use in surgical sutures, polyglactin 910 is also explored in other biomedical applications, such as drug delivery systems, scaffolds for tissue engineering, and bioresorbable implants. The polymer’s biocompatibility, processability, and degradation characteristics make it a versatile material in the development of next-generation medical devices. Its compatibility with various processing techniques, including extrusion and injection molding, further expands its potential applications in medical and pharmaceutical industries.
| Test Items | Standards |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Light yellow solid |
| Intrinsic viscosity（dL/g） | 1.4-2.0 |
| Molar Ratio (%) | Glycolide: 87-93; L-Lactide:7-13 |
| Glycolide Residue (%) | ≤1 |
| L-lactide residue(%) | ≤2 |
| Solvent residue(ppm) | ≤100 |
| Water residue(ppm) | ＜100 |
| Total heavy metal content (ppm) | ≤10 |
| Tin Residue(ppm) | ≤50 |
| Ash content (%) | ≤0.5 |
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
PGLA 910 offers high tensile strength, flexibility, and durability, making it suitable for medical applications that require temporary structural support. It retains a significant portion of its tensile strength for up to 2-3 weeks before gradual degradation.
Yes, PGLA 910 is available in various molecular weights to suit different processing and performance requirements. Higher molecular weight grades provide extended mechanical strength and slower degradation rates, while lower molecular weight grades degrade more quickly.
PGLA 910 can be processed using techniques such as extrusion, injection molding, and solvent casting, making it highly adaptable for different medical applications. The choice of processing method depends on the final product’s specifications and intended use.
Compared to other biodegradable polymers like polyglycolide (PGA) or polylactide (PLA), PGLA 910 offers a balanced combination of flexibility, strength, and controlled degradation. It degrades more predictably than catgut sutures and provides better handling characteristics than pure PGA.
PGLA 910 should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. Since it is sensitive to hydrolysis, proper packaging and controlled storage conditions are essential to maintain its stability and shelf life.
Yes, PGLA 910 is widely recognized as a safe and biocompatible material for medical applications. It has been extensively tested and used in absorbable sutures and other biomedical devices without causing adverse effects.
Yes, PGLA 910 can be tailored in terms of molecular weight, degradation rate, and processing properties to meet specific medical device requirements. Custom formulations can be developed to optimize performance for targeted applications.
PGLA 910-based medical products are commonly sterilized using:
Ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization: The preferred method as it does not significantly alter polymer properties
Gamma irradiation: Can be used, but excessive exposure may accelerate degradation
Steam sterilization: Not recommended, as high temperatures can cause premature degradation