Microporous poly(lactic acid) (PLA) monoliths were prepared by thermally induced phase separation followed by solvent exchange and vacuum drying. Tetrahydrofuran/water solvent system was used for the induction of liquid-liquid phase separation of PLA solution. PLA gels obtained were mechanically stabilized by replacing THF/water solvent mixture with a nonsolvent. Characterization of PLA monoliths was performed by SEM, XRD, DSC and mercury intrusion porosimetry. Effects of the fabrication parameters on the morphology and pore structure were systematically examined. Parameters investigated included; (i) the polymer concentration (6, 7, 8 and 10 wt%), (ii) THF/water ratio (84:16, 86:14, 88:12 w/w), (iii) nonsolvent type (ethanol, methanol, ethanol/water, isopropyl alcohol), and (iv) quench temperature (24 °C, 4 °C and -20 °C). It was demonstrated that foam morphology and degree of porosity could be controlled by tuning the fabrication parameters.

Fabrication of microporous PLA foams via thermally induced phase separation and solvent exchange

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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