Polyhydroxyalkanoate degradation rates can be controlled.

A number of degradable polymers have been developed that break down in vivo into their respective monomers within weeks or a few months. However, despite the availability of these synthetic polymers, there is still a need to develop degradable polymers which can further extend the range of available properties, particularly mechanical properties, argue USA-based scientists. (See World Patent WO 0056376.)

They propose using biocompatible polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) for which they have developed means of controlling the degradation rates. These are natural, thermoplastic polyesters and can be processed by traditional polymer techniques for use in a variety of …