Laccat – Lactide polymerization with Zn-catalyst

The invention relates to the ring-opening polymerization of lactides with new zinc catalyst complexes, which in contrast to the catalysts used so far are stable with respect to air and air humidity, and therefore polylactides (PLA) can be

produced with these in a more commercially efficient man-ner. The catalysts are particularly suitable for polymerisation in the melt at 135 – 200°C. Commercial Opportunity Polylactides (PLA) can be readily processed in conventional plants. PLA is transparent and can be processed into films, shaped parts, cans, tubs, bottles and other items of daily use. PLA is above all suitable for short-life packaging films or frozen products (e.g. drinks or yoghurt containers, trays for fruit, vegetables and meat), since it is biodegraded in a short period. Because of its transparency, PLA also provides advantages for applications in the construction industry, engineering, optics and in car manufacture. Since PLA can be absorbed by the body, it is used for implants. Absorbable suture ma-terial and active substance depots made of PLA are also in use.

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