Supramolecular Interactions, a Route to Control Properties and Interfaces in PLA Based Materials

Background: Supramolecular interactions within polylactides chains allows for the creation of highly ordered structures with unique features that could enlarge the applications of polylactide-based materials. Method: Stereocomplexation is a supramolecular interaction which leads to the formation of complex structures from enantiomeric polylactides and interactions of L- and D-lactide unit sequences is a driving force of this process. Result: This provides a tool for the creation of the smart materials that undergo structural rearrangement under the external stimulus, self-heal after applying the external stress or release their payloads in a desired part of human body. Conclusion: This review outlines the applied supramolecular approaches that lead to the control over the properties and morphology of polylactides at interfaces. The relevance of different combinations of supramolecular interactions and their influences on the properties of the obtained materials is discussed.