Polycaprolactone

Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a type of polymer that is biodegradable and is used in a variety of applications, including medical devices, drug delivery, and tissue engineering. It is a semi-crystalline polymer with a low melting point and a glass transition temperature.

Chemical Structure

Polycaprolactone is a linear aliphatic polyester that is synthesized through the ring-opening polymerization of epsilon-caprolactone. The chemical structure of polycaprolactone consists of repeating units of six-carbon monomers, which gives it its unique properties.

Properties

Polycaprolactone has several properties that make it ideal for use in medical applications. It is biodegradable, meaning it can be broken down by the body over time. This makes it ideal for use in temporary implants or drug delivery systems. It also has a low melting point, which allows it to be easily molded into various shapes. Additionally, it has a high degree of crystallinity, which gives it good mechanical strength.

Applications

Medical Devices

Due to its biodegradability and mechanical strength, polycaprolactone is often used in the manufacture of medical devices. These can include sutures, stents, and drug delivery systems. The biodegradability of polycaprolactone allows these devices to be safely absorbed by the body over time, reducing the need for additional surgeries to remove them.

Drug Delivery

Polycaprolactone can also be used in drug delivery systems. The polymer can be used to encapsulate drugs, allowing them to be released slowly over time. This can improve the efficacy of the drug and reduce the frequency of dosing.

Tissue Engineering

In tissue engineering, polycaprolactone is often used as a scaffold material. It can be used to support the growth of new tissue, such as skin or bone. The biodegradability of polycaprolactone allows the scaffold to be absorbed by the body as new tissue grows.

See Also

• Polymer
• Biodegradable polymer
• Medical device
• Drug delivery
• Tissue engineering