Preparation of nanoparticles based on biodegradable chain linked PLA/PEG polymer for controlled release of herbicides metazachlor

Abstract

The work presented here investigates the synthesis of PLA-PEG diisocyanate chain-linked copolymer, and its application in the nano-encapsulation of bioactive compounds. Nanoparticle formation was performed via a single solvent evaporation process, and the particles obtained were characterized by dynamic light scattering. Results show the low molecular weight nature of the material with the glass transition temperatures at around 44 degrees C. Nanoparticles in the range of 300 nm contained metazachlor were successfully prepared, and their releasing behaviour exhibited first order release kinetics. The biodegradability of material was proved by degradation under compost conditions.