Abstract
Elastomeric bioscaffolds with tunable elasticity and biodegradability were synthesized via ring opening polymerization of polycaprolactone (PCL) and polylactide (PLA) with a bifunctional polyethylene glycol macroinitiator, followed by chain extension with diisocyanate to form urethane linkages. Through fine tuning of the macroinitiator and PCL/PLA weight fraction and molecular weight, a data set of elastomeric bioscaffolds gives structure-property insights into their thermal, mechanical, and biodegradability properties as they relate to triblock copolymer composition and mechanical weight. These materials were targeted to be 3D-printed by commercial devices, and their unique rheological properties enable impeccable multiscale microstructure formation. Simplicity in synthesis and fabrication as well as tunable biodegradability (1 day to 2 months) and elasticity (modulus 32-94 MPa) suggest the vast wide-ranging utility and prospective application in bioscaffolds for future therapeutic treatments.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 4708-4716 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | ACS Applied Polymer Materials |
Volume | 3 |
Issue number | 9 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2021 Sep 10 |
Keywords
- 3D printing
- biodegradable polymers
- bioelastomer
- block copolymer
- polyurethane
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Polymers and Plastics
- Process Chemistry and Technology
- Organic Chemistry