PLGA is synthesized through a process called ring-opening polymerization, where the cyclic dimers of lactic acid and glycolic acid (lactide and glycolide) are polymerized. The ratio of lactic acid to glycolic acid can be varied to tailor the physical and chemical properties of the final copolymer. The polymerization process can be catalyzed using various catalysts to control the molecular weight and polydispersity of the polymer.
