Mechanical characterization of corn-derived poly-L-lactic acid

The purpose of this study is to measure the mechanical properties of corn-derived poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). This biodegradable polymer was produced in the laboratory of Dr. Manju Misra and Dr. Amar Mohanty at the University of Guelph. If corn-derived PLLA is compatible with cardiac cells, then cardiac wraps or other medical devices could be made from this material. Once the mechanical properties of this polymer are determined, then potential biomedical uses can be explored. Tensile testing and accelerated shelf life testing were conducted.