1. Engineering Applications of Polymer-Based Nanoblends Challenges and Opportunities

This chapter delves into the engineering applications of polymer-based nanoblends, with a particular focus on the use of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) blends in biomedical applications. It explores the unique properties of biodegradable polymers like PLA, poly(glycolic acid) (PGA), and their copolymer PLGA, which make them ideal for temporary medical devices and drug delivery systems. The chapter discusses the advantages of these materials, such as their ability to degrade into non-toxic byproducts and their versatility in various forms like films, fibers, and hydrogels. It also addresses the challenges and limitations of PLA, including its brittleness, low thermal stability, and poor barrier properties. The chapter highlights the potential of PLA blends to overcome these limitations by combining PLA with other materials to enhance its mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. It explores the use of PLA blends in tissue engineering, drug delivery, and biomedical implants, emphasizing their customizable nature and controlled degradation rates. The chapter also touches on the environmental benefits of PLA and its blends, making it a promising candidate for sustainable and eco-friendly applications in the biomedical field.