Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide), 50:50, IV 0.2 dL/g, acid-terminated

Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide), 50:50, IV 0.2 dL/g, acid-terminated

Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), 50:50, IV 0.2 dL/g, acid-terminated is a biodegradable copolymer composed of D,L-lactide and glycolide in an equimolar ratio. This 50:50 composition is associated with relatively rapid hydrolytic degradation, while the low inherent viscosity (IV 0.2 dL/g) indicates a lower molecular weight polymer suitable for applications requiring shorter residence times and faster material breakdown.

The acid-terminated end groups provide reactive functionality that can be used for further chemical modification, conjugation, or controlled interaction with active compounds. This makes the material particularly useful in research settings where degradation rate, release profile, and polymer–drug interactions must be tuned.

---

Key Features & Benefits

• 50:50 lactide:glycolide ratio: supports relatively fast and predictable hydrolytic degradation
• Low inherent viscosity (0.2 dL/g): indicates lower molecular weight for shorter degradation timelines
• Acid-terminated polymer chains: enables chemical modification and conjugation strategies
• Biodegradable and biocompatible: widely used in biomedical and pharmaceutical research
• Well-characterized material system: supported by extensive literature and regulatory familiarity

---

Product Details

• Product name: Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide), 50:50, IV 0.2 dL/g, acid-terminated
• Product number: 26269
• CAS number: 26780-50-7
• Copolymer composition: 50:50 D,L-lactide:glycolide
• Inherent viscosity (IV): 0.2 dL/g
• End group: Acid-terminated
• Polymer type: Biodegradable aliphatic polyester

---

Typical Applications

Drug delivery research
Used in the development of microspheres, nanoparticles, and matrix systems where controlled degradation and release are required over shorter timeframes.

Biodegradable material design
Suitable for applications requiring temporary structural support or resorbable materials with faster breakdown profiles.

Polymer conjugation and modification
Acid end groups enable coupling reactions for attaching drugs, ligands, or functional molecules.

Biomedical and pharmaceutical studies
Frequently used in research involving resorbable systems, tissue engineering scaffolds, and delivery platforms.

---

Functional Role

This PLGA grade functions as a biodegradable polymer matrix that undergoes hydrolytic degradation into lactic and glycolic acid derivatives. The relatively low molecular weight and 50:50 composition contribute to faster water uptake and chain cleavage, while the acid end groups provide opportunities for further chemical interaction or formulation tuning.

---

Why Molecular Weight and Composition Matter

The degradation rate of PLGA is influenced by both copolymer ratio and molecular weight. A 50:50 ratio typically results in faster degradation compared to lactide-rich variants, while lower inherent viscosity corresponds to shorter polymer chains and reduced structural persistence. Together, these factors make this grade appropriate for applications requiring degradation on shorter timescales.

For more guidance, see our polymer molecular weight selection guide.

---

Handling & Storage

• Store in a cool, dry environment in a tightly sealed container.
• Protect from moisture to minimize premature hydrolysis.
• Handle using appropriate laboratory safety practices.
• Consult the SDS for detailed handling and storage recommendations.

---

FAQ

Click a question to expand.

What does 50:50 PLGA mean?

It refers to a 1:1 molar ratio of lactide and glycolide, which is commonly associated with faster degradation compared to other PLGA compositions.

What does IV 0.2 dL/g indicate?

It reflects a relatively low molecular weight polymer, which typically correlates with faster degradation and lower mechanical strength.

What is acid-terminated PLGA used for?

Acid-terminated PLGA can be used for conjugation, formulation tuning, or interactions with active compounds in drug delivery systems.

How fast does this PLGA degrade?

Degradation rate depends on conditions, but 50:50, low molecular weight PLGA is generally used for shorter-term applications compared to higher molecular weight or lactide-rich variants.

Is PLGA biocompatible?

PLGA is widely studied and used in biomedical research due to its biodegradability and compatibility with biological systems.