Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), 50:50, IV 0.4 dL/g, acid-terminated, is a biodegradable copolymer composed of D,L-lactide and glycolide in a 50:50 molar ratio. This grade is supplied as a micronized powder and is commonly used in research involving biodegradable polymer systems, controlled-release matrices, microspheres, nanoparticles, coatings, and scaffold materials.
Synonyms: PLGA; Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid); Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide); 50:50 PLGA; acid-terminated PLGA.
The 50:50 lactide:glycolide composition is commonly associated with relatively rapid hydrolytic degradation compared with lactide-rich PLGA grades. The acid-terminated end group and intrinsic viscosity of 0.4 dL/g make this polymer useful for formulation development where polymer composition, end-group chemistry, and molecular weight influence degradation behavior, release profile, and material performance.
Key Properties
- Biodegradable D,L-lactide/glycolide copolymer
- Lactide:glycolide ratio: 50:50
- Intrinsic viscosity: 0.4 dL/g
- Acid-terminated PLGA
- Approximate molecular weight: 35,000
- Supplied as micronized powder
- Commonly used in biodegradable polymer and controlled-release research
Applications
Controlled-Release Polymer Research
PLGA is widely used in research involving controlled-release matrices, microspheres, nanoparticles, and polymer-based delivery systems where hydrolytic degradation and release behavior are important.
Biodegradable Microspheres & Nanoparticles
This 50:50 PLGA grade may be used to prepare biodegradable particulate systems for formulation screening, encapsulation studies, and release-profile development.
Scaffold & Materials Development
PLGA is commonly studied in biodegradable scaffold, film, coating, and porous material research where polymer degradation, morphology, and mechanical properties are key design factors.
Polymer Formulation Studies
Useful for evaluating how lactide:glycolide ratio, intrinsic viscosity, end-group chemistry, and processing conditions affect final polymer performance.
Preparation & Use Considerations
- Confirm compatibility with selected solvents, active ingredients, excipients, surfactants, and processing conditions
- Degradation and release behavior depend on polymer composition, molecular weight, end group, particle size, morphology, pH, temperature, and media conditions
- 50:50 PLGA grades generally degrade faster than PLGA grades with higher lactide content
- Evaluate final material performance under the intended formulation and use conditions
Handling & Storage
- Store at -20°C according to the product listing
- Keep tightly sealed and protect from moisture
- Allow container to equilibrate before opening to help minimize condensation
- Use appropriate PPE and standard laboratory handling practices
- Refer to the Safety Data Sheet for complete handling, storage, and disposal guidance
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FAQ
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1. What is Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) 50:50 used for?
Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) 50:50 is used in biodegradable polymer research, controlled-release matrices, microspheres, nanoparticles, coatings, films, and scaffold material development.
2. What does PLGA 50:50 mean?
PLGA 50:50 indicates a copolymer made with a 50:50 molar ratio of lactide and glycolide units.
3. What does acid-terminated PLGA mean?
Acid-terminated PLGA contains carboxylic acid end groups, which can influence polymer degradation behavior, formulation properties, and interactions with other formulation components.
4. What is the intrinsic viscosity of this PLGA grade?
This product is listed with an intrinsic viscosity of 0.4 dL/g.
5. How should this PLGA powder be stored?
The product listing specifies storage at -20°C. Keep the container tightly sealed and protect the material from moisture. Consult the SDS for complete storage and handling guidance.
Safety & Documentation
Review the product Safety Data Sheet before handling Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide). Use appropriate PPE, storage conditions, and disposal procedures for polymer laboratory materials.
