A High-Performing Monomer Makes High-Performing Polymers
Polyglycolic acid (PGA) polymers have a growing list of biodegradable and high gas barrier polymer applications, especially for use in biomedical and food and beverage applications. Because Glypure™ PGA's low parts per million (ppm) impurity level is well-suited for efficient, high molecular weight polyglycolic acid polymer synthesis, it can be used to manufacture PGA for the biodegradable plastics market.
PGA Polymer Features and Benefits
Polyglycolic acid (PGA) polymers ultimately degrade into glycolic acid, which is itself readily biodegradable. PGA polymers offer:
- A high crystalline structure that provides strength and durability
- Excellent heat resistance to provide stability where other degradable polymers (e.g., polylactic acid) do not
- Excellent gas barrier properties—even in humid environments— that are appropriate for food and carbonated soft drink applications
In small servicing sizes, the surface area to volume of liquid is too great, and the CO₂ decreases, which shortens the products' shelf life.