Biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL) based polymer and composites

Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a biodegradable polyester that has advantages over other biopolymers, making it an extensively researched polymer. PCL is a hydrophobic, slow-degrading, synthetic polymer making it particularly interesting for the preparation of long-term implantable devices and a variety of drug delivery systems. Recently, PCL has been used for additional applications including food packaging and tissue engineering. In this chapter, the processing methods and characterization of PCL will be discussed. The chapter will summarize the synthesis of poly(α-hydroxy acid) and the ring-opening polymerization of PCL. Discussion on the biodegradability of PCL will be reviewed. The biomedical applications of PCL, such as, drug-delivery systems, medical devices, and tissue engineering will be also summarized. Finally, the chapter will conclude with a characterization section outlining recent studies focusing on PCL based composites and films.