Effect of poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) and UV irradiation on the melt rheology and mechanical properties of poly(lactic acid)

ABSTRACT To improve the suitability of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) for implantable devices, it ideally needs greater ductility without losses in strength. Here biodegradable poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) (PEtOx) was selected as an additive to improve hydrophilicity of PLA as well as mechanical properties, while UV irradiation was considered as a bulk modification method to increase the long‐term stability. The PLA blend showed improved tensile …