Analytical methods in resorbable polymer development and degradation tracking

Abstract A precise characterization of polymeric matrices and suitable degradation monitoring techniques is required to support the development of new materials or extend the applications of existing ones. In this context, polymer analysis plays an essential role for the innate relationship between structure and properties that establishes the industrial applications in different fields. It can involve many different features ranging from molecular weight determination to detailed characterization of chemical structures, compositions, and surface analysis. In resorbable polymers, the role of analytical methods is doubled, since it must address both polymeric matrices and degradation tracking. In fact, the structural architectures, the mechanical and morphological properties, and the degradation rate are all of crucial importance for the specific application. This chapter provides an overview of the analytical methods used to support research and development of resorbable polymers to investigate the structure and degradation mechanism. It focuses on the most significant studies concerning synthetic matrices (polylactide, polyglycolide and their copolymers, polyhydroxybutyrate, etc.) published in the last 10 years.