Effect of Synthesis Parameters on Size of the Biodegradable Poly (L-Lactide) (PLLA) Microspheres

In this work, PLLA microspheres were prepared via emulsion solvent evaporation technique. Several synthesis parameters were studied to evaluate their effect on the size of PLLA microspheres. PLLA pallets before emulsion and PLLA microspheres surface chemistry after emulsion were determined using Fourier Transform Infra-red (FTIR). Results showed that PLLA pallets and microspheres FTIR obtained an identical spectrum. Microspheres size and surface morphology were determined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). In conclusion, the parameters that significantly affect the size of PLLA microspheres were PLLA concentration, DCM to water volume ratio, PVA concentration and stirring speed. PVA molecular weight variation showed no significant change in microspheres size.