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Polylactide, often abbreviated as PLA, is a biodegradable and biocompatible thermoplastic polyester derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. It is a polymer produced by the ring-opening polymerization of lactide, which is a cyclic diester of lactic acid. PLA is known for its relatively high tensile strength, stiffness, and transparency. It has a melting point typically in the range of 150-170°C, depending on its molecular weight and crystallinity.

The production of PLA involves the fermentation of sugars to produce lactic acid, which is then polymerized into lactide. This lactide is purified and then polymerized to form PLA. The properties of PLA can be modified by altering its molecular weight, crystallinity, and by copolymerizing it with other monomers. For instance, increasing crystallinity generally improves its heat resistance and strength.

PLA finds widespread applications due to its environmentally friendly nature and favorable physical properties. It is commonly used in packaging, including food containers, bottles, and films, as an alternative to petroleum-based plastics. In the biomedical field, PLA is utilized in sutures, implants, drug delivery systems, and tissue engineering scaffolds because of its biocompatibility and ability to degrade within the body into lactic acid, which is then metabolized. 3D printing is another significant area where PLA is popular due to its ease of printing, low warp, and minimal odor. Its biodegradability means that under specific industrial composting conditions, it can break down into carbon dioxide and water.