Caprolactone

Caprolactone is a chemical compound used mainly in the production of biodegradable plastics and polymers. It belongs to a class called lactones—cyclic esters formed from cyclic molecules. When processed, caprolactone can be polymerized to create materials known as polycaprolactone (PCL), which are flexible, biodegradable, and used in medical devices, packaging, and fibers. Its slow breakdown in the environment makes it an attractive eco-friendly option. Essentially, caprolactone serves as a building block for creating versatile, sustainable plastics with applications across healthcare and industry.