Impact of solvolysis on the decomposition efficiency of poly(lactic acid) materials with insight into their non-uniform architecture

Abstract

A more recent insight into the structural differences of sustainable poly(lactic acid)-based materials was revealed through a solvolysis reaction under environmentally friendly conditions. The decomposition process clarified the heterogeneous structure of the investigation polymers. It was found that materials used for nanofiber production degraded 25 % more poorly compared to materials suitable for packaging materials. The resultant product, ethyl lactate, demonstrated high purity and yield (up to 900 mg·L−1, 98 %). The degree and effect of decomposition of the poly(lactic acid) were monitored by employing the gel permeation chromatic method, differential scanning calorimetry and thermal gravimetric analysis. X-ray diffraction was conducted to assess differences between the crystalline portions of polymers. The yield and purity of the product were verified by gas and liquid chromatography. The kinetic studies evaluated the rate of polymers degradation connected with chemical structure and temperature. A structural difference was observed in the studied polylactides, with approximately a 15 % deviation in crystallinity. This observed variation resulted from differences in arrangement and chain lengths, as well as the terminal functional groups, leading to non-uniform degradation of both polymers. This study offers a new insight on the degradation efficiency of polymers highlights the non-uniformity of their structure. Converting biodegradable polymer waste into a suitable and reusable product as part of an environmentally friendly approach will contribute to the sustainability of polymer materials. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.