Synthesis and Recycle of Poly(L-lactic acid) using Microwave Irradiation

摘要

The theory and application of production and recycling of poly(lactic acid) are reviewed. Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) production under microwave irradiation can make the molecular weight higher than that under conventional heating. However, it is limited by discharge in the sample tube. In contrast, depolymerization of oligo(L-lactic acid) (OLLA) is successfully achieved under microwave irradiation. Hydrolysis and alcoholysis of PLLA under microwave irradiation is also faster than those under conventional heating. Moreover, racemization of lactic acid during hydrolysis of PLLA can be reduced under microwave irradiation. The racemization of lactate during alcoholysis is small both with and without microwave irradiation.