Polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer, has gained significant attention in tissue engineering because of its eco-friendly nature, excellent mechanical properties and tunable degradation rates. This book chapter explores recent advancements in PLA-based composites tailored for tissue engineering applications. The inherent limitations of PLA, such as its brittleness and lack of bioactivity, have driven the development of composite materials incorporating various reinforcements, including bioceramics, bioactive glasses, natural fibres and nanomaterials. These reinforcements not only enhance the mechanical strength, thermal stability and degradation profile of PLA but also impart functional properties such as osteoconductivity, antibacterial activity and controlled drug release. The book chapter begins with an overview of the synthesis, properties and degradation mechanisms of PLA, providing a foundation for understanding its role in composite development. It then explores strategies for enhancing the performance of PLA, focussing on material selection, fabrication techniques and surface modifications. Different fabrication methods, including solvent casting, electrospinning and 3D printing, are discussed, emphasizing their impact on the structural and functional properties of the composites. Additionally, the chapter highlights the applications of PLA-based composites in regenerating diverse tissues, such as bone, cartilage and skin. The challenges associated with scalability, long-term performance and regulatory considerations are also addressed. PLA-based composites represent a promising class of materials for advancing tissue engineering. The integration of innovative reinforcements and manufacturing technologies continues to expand their potential, paving the way for the development of next-generation bioimplants and fixation devices. Future research directions and potential clinical applications are also proposed, emphasizing the role of PLA-based composites in the evolving field of regenerative medicine.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

PLA-Based Composites for Tissue Engineering

  • M. Vishnuvarthanan,
  • Arbind Prasad,
  • V. Subha

摘要

Polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer, has gained significant attention in tissue engineering because of its eco-friendly nature, excellent mechanical properties and tunable degradation rates. This book chapter explores recent advancements in PLA-based composites tailored for tissue engineering applications. The inherent limitations of PLA, such as its brittleness and lack of bioactivity, have driven the development of composite materials incorporating various reinforcements, including bioceramics, bioactive glasses, natural fibres and nanomaterials. These reinforcements not only enhance the mechanical strength, thermal stability and degradation profile of PLA but also impart functional properties such as osteoconductivity, antibacterial activity and controlled drug release. The book chapter begins with an overview of the synthesis, properties and degradation mechanisms of PLA, providing a foundation for understanding its role in composite development. It then explores strategies for enhancing the performance of PLA, focussing on material selection, fabrication techniques and surface modifications. Different fabrication methods, including solvent casting, electrospinning and 3D printing, are discussed, emphasizing their impact on the structural and functional properties of the composites. Additionally, the chapter highlights the applications of PLA-based composites in regenerating diverse tissues, such as bone, cartilage and skin. The challenges associated with scalability, long-term performance and regulatory considerations are also addressed. PLA-based composites represent a promising class of materials for advancing tissue engineering. The integration of innovative reinforcements and manufacturing technologies continues to expand their potential, paving the way for the development of next-generation bioimplants and fixation devices. Future research directions and potential clinical applications are also proposed, emphasizing the role of PLA-based composites in the evolving field of regenerative medicine.