The dilute solution properties of poly(d,l-lactide)s (PDL50) with a weight-averaged molar mass (Mw) ranging from 0.154 × 104 to 75.7 × 104 g mol−1 are thoroughly studied in tetrahydrofuran at 25 °C by static light and small-angle X-ray scattering and intrinsic viscosity ([η]) measurements. The Mw dependences of 〈S2〉z1/2 and [η] are quantitatively described by the wormlike cylinder with stiffness parameter λ−1 = 2.9 nm, indicating that the PDL50 chain behaves as a typical flexible polymer but is essentially 1.6−2.1 times stiffer than polystyrene and poly(methyl methacrylate).
- Yoshinori Suzuki
- Takahiro Watanabe
- Seigou Kawaguchi
