EFFECT OF POLYLACTIC ACID (PLA) CONCENTRATIONS ON TENSILE PROPERTIES FOR TRANSDERMAL PATCH

Abstract

 The usage of petrochemical-based polymers is tremendous, and this is partially due to excellent mechanical properties and durability. However, with the continuous usage and development of materials, the after-use of these materials is causing huge problems for the environment. As it is non-degradable and lasts long for hundreds of years, it remains in the environment surrounding us. Conventional patches used in transdermal patches are made from non-degradable polymeric materials, thus, research on biodegradable polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA) is crucial for the usage as a patch. To achieve the requisite flexible properties for transdermal patches, the selection of appropriate materials should be considered. In this study, a fabricated semi-automated patch machine was utilized for the preparation of PLA film. Thus, it is crucial to optimize the PLA concentrations using this device. The tensile properties were examined with various polylactic acid (PLA) concentrations. The goal is to identify the ideal concentration that balances the flexibility and strength of the PLA film. Tensile testing was conducted on PLA films at five different concentrations (7%, 10%, 13%, and 15% ) (w/v %). Key factors such as Young’s Modulus, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and strain at break were assessed on these PLA films. According to preliminary findings, the concentration of PLA has a significant impact on the mechanical behavior of PLA films. For transdermal and cosmeceutical patches to have the right flexibility and strength, choosing the best PLA concentration is essential. A sustainable and environmentally responsible alternative to traditional non-degradable polymers can be provided by incorporating these mechanical behavior discoveries into the creation of biodegradable patches. Our research advances environmentally friendly approaches to medicine delivery and material science.