Poly(Glycolic Acid) and Copolymers of Glycolic Acid: Syntheses, Properties and Applications

Poly(glycolic acid) (PGA) is one of the oldest synthetic biodegradable polyesters and has been produced on a technical scale since the mid-20th century. Its development was strongly driven by medical applications, particularly as a resorbable surgical suture, leading to the commercialization of PGA-based products such as Dexon and Vicryl. PGA is primarily synthesized by ring-opening polymerization of glycolide, a method that provides high molecular weights and remains the dominant industrial route. Alternative synthetic approaches based on polycondensation have also been explored and are reviewed herein. Owing to its highly regular and polar structure, PGA exhibits exceptional properties, including high crystallinity, high melting temperature, excellent mechanical strength, and an outstanding barrier performance. However, its broader utilization is limited by challenges associated with monomer production costs, melt-processability, limited solubility, and rapid hydrolytic degradation. In addition to neat PGA, a wide range of glycolide-containing copolymers have attracted significant attention because their properties can be tailored for medical and pharmaceutical applications. This review summarizes the synthetic methods, structure−property relationships, and current as well as emerging applications of PGA and its copolymers from almost 300 references. Furthermore, the toxicity of the catalysts employed in the synthesis of PGA and its copolymers is discussed.