Polylactic Acid: A Practical Guide for the Processing, Manufacturing, and Applications of PLA, Third Edition provides a practical guide for engineers and scientists engaged in PLA research and the development of new products. This new edition addresses the latest updates on PLA synthesis, eco-profiles such as lifecycle assessments, and advancements in 3D printing technology. It also includes details on the new PLA products available in the market and profiles major industrial players that have emerged in recent years. Additionally, it highlights newer applications like shape memory PLA, biomedical chemotherapy, and wearable electronics, which have garnered significant interest in recent years.The current market landscape for PLA and biodegradable polymers is described, along with applications across a range of market sectors. In addition, it covers the mechanical, chemical, thermal, rheological, and degradation properties of PLA, providing a comprehensive understanding of this sustainable material. The book is not only a valuable introduction to academics, researchers, and policymakers to this topic, but also serves as a practical reference guide to support decision-making within the plastics industry. - Covers the properties, synthesis and polymerization of PLA, along with processing techniques involved in fabricating parts from this polymer - Offers detailed guidance on how to process, manufacture, and scale-up PLA for industrial use, presenting an essential reference for engineers, scientists, and product designers considering switching to a sustainable plastic - Includes critical new chapters on PLA membrane and separation, and cutting-edge applications of PLA in smart polymers, wearable electronics, responsive systems, active packaging materials, and more