Low-energy electron beam induced surface modification of polylactic acid (PLA)

Abstract Polylactide (PLA) is a bio-based, biodegradable polymer of high biomedical relevance. In this work, low-energy electron beam (LEEB) treatment was applied to PLA films to study structural and surface modifications. A set of complementary techniques revealed a dose-dependent reduction in molecular weight (GPC), minor alterations in functional groups (FTIR, XPS), and increased oxygen-containing species on the surface. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) indicated chain scission–induced reorganization, while contact angle and pH measurements showed enhanced hydrophilicity and gradual surface acidification. Electrostatic field measurements further demonstrated increased surface charge buildup with dose. These findings highlight that LEEB treatment induces both degradation and surface range modifications, which are strongly dose-dependent. The results provide a basis for identifying irradiation parameters suitable for future antimicrobial testing.