Polymers

7349 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quasi-Static Behavior of Palm-Based Elastomeric Polyurethane: For Strengthening Application of Structures under Impulsive Loadings

by H. M. Chandima Chathuranga Somarathna, Sudharshan N. Raman, Khairiah Haji Badri, Azrul A. Mutalib, Damith Mohotti and Sri Devi Ravana

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050202 - 20 May 2016

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 7264

Abstract

In recent years, attention has been focused on elastomeric polymers as a potential retrofitting material considering their capability in contributing towards the impact resistance of various structural elements. A comprehensive understanding of the behavior and the morphology of this material are essential to [...] Read more.

In recent years, attention has been focused on elastomeric polymers as a potential retrofitting material considering their capability in contributing towards the impact resistance of various structural elements. A comprehensive understanding of the behavior and the morphology of this material are essential to propose an effective and feasible alternative to existing structural strengthening and retrofitting materials. This article presents the findings obtained from a series of experimental investigations to characterize the physical, mechanical, chemical and thermal behavior of eight types of palm-based polyurethane (PU) elastomers, which were synthesized from the reaction between palm kernel oil-based monoester polyol (PKO-p) and 4,4-diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) with polyethylene glycol (PEG) as the plasticizer via pre-polymerization. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy analysis was conducted to examine the functional groups in PU systems. Mechanical and physical behavior was studied with focus on elongation, stresses, modulus, energy absorption and dissipation, and load dispersion capacities by conducting hardness, tensile, flexural, Izod impact, and differential scanning calorimetry tests. Experimental results suggest that the palm-based PU has positive effects as a strengthening and retrofitting material against dynamic impulsive loadings both in terms of energy absorption and dissipation, and load dispersion. In addition, among all PUs with different plasticizer contents, PU2 to PU8 (which contain 2% to 8% (w/w) PEG with respect to PKO-p content) show the best correlation with mechanical response under quasi-static conditions focusing on energy absorption and dissipation and load dispersion characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from “SMAR 2015”)

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5570 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mica/Epoxy-Composites in the Electrical Industry: Applications, Composites for Insulation, and Investigations on Failure Mechanisms for Prospective Optimizations

by Natascha Andraschek, Andrea Johanna Wanner, Catharina Ebner and Gisbert Riess

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050201 - 20 May 2016

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 11862

Abstract

The investigation of mica and mica/epoxy-composites has always been of high importance and has gained increased attention in recent years due to their significant role as insulation material in the electrical industry. Electrical insulation represents a key factor regarding the reliability and lifespan [...] Read more.

The investigation of mica and mica/epoxy-composites has always been of high importance and has gained increased attention in recent years due to their significant role as insulation material in the electrical industry. Electrical insulation represents a key factor regarding the reliability and lifespan of high voltage rotating machines. As the demand for generating power plants is increasing, rotating machines are of intrinsic importance to the electrical energy supply. Therefore, impeccable functioning is of immense importance for both the producers of high voltage machines as well as the energy suppliers. Thus, cost reduction caused by shorter maintenance times and higher operational lifespan has become the focus of attention. Besides the electrical properties, composites should offer compatible chemical and mechanical, as well as thermal characteristics for their usage in insulating systems. Furthermore, knowledge of several occurring stresses leading to the final breakdown of the whole insulation is required. This review aims to give an overview of the properties of pure components, the composite, and the possible occurring failure mechanisms which can lead to a full understanding of insulation materials for high voltage rotating machines and therefore establish a basis for prospective optimizations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano- and Microcomposites for Electrical Engineering Applications)

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2204 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructure Changes in Polyester Polyurethane upon Thermal and Humid Aging

by Qiang Tian, Ivan Krakovský, Guanyun Yan, Liangfei Bai, Jiahui Liu, Guangai Sun, László Rosta, Bo Chen and László Almásy

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 197; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050197 - 20 May 2016

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 7492

Abstract

The microstructure of compression molded Estane 5703 films exposed to 11%, 45%, and 80% relative humidity and 70 °C for 1 and 2 months has been studied by small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and differential [...] Read more.

The microstructure of compression molded Estane 5703 films exposed to 11%, 45%, and 80% relative humidity and 70 °C for 1 and 2 months has been studied by small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Scattering data indicated increase of the interdomain distance and domain size with a higher humidity and longer aging time. GPC data showed a progressive shortening of polyurethane chains with increasing humidity and aging time. The shortening of the polyurethane chains caused a drop of the glass transition temperature of soft segments, and promoted crystallization of the soft segments during long-time storage of the aged samples at room temperature. FTIR showed a substantial increase in the number of inter-urethane H-bonds in the aged samples. This correlates with the increase of the hard domain size and the degree of phase separation as measured by SANS. The data collected reveals that the reduced steric hindrance caused by hydrolysis of ester links in polybutylene adipate residues promotes the organization of hard segments into domains, leading to the increase of domain size and distance, as well as phase segregation in aged Estane. These findings provide insight into the effects of humidity and thermal aging on the microstructure of aged polyester urethane from molecular to nanoscale level. Full article

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3576 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermogel-Coated Poly(ε-Caprolactone) Composite Scaffold for Enhanced Cartilage Tissue Engineering

by Shao-Jie Wang, Zheng-Zheng Zhang, Dong Jiang, Yan-Song Qi, Hai-Jun Wang, Ji-Ying Zhang, Jian-Xun Ding and Jia-Kuo Yu

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050200 - 19 May 2016

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 9277

Abstract

A three-dimensional (3D) composite scaffold was prepared for enhanced cartilage tissue engineering, which was composed of a poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) backbone network and a poly(lactide-co-glycolide)-block-poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA–PEG–PLGA) thermogel surface. The composite scaffold not only possessed adequate [...] Read more.

A three-dimensional (3D) composite scaffold was prepared for enhanced cartilage tissue engineering, which was composed of a poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) backbone network and a poly(lactide-co-glycolide)-block-poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA–PEG–PLGA) thermogel surface. The composite scaffold not only possessed adequate mechanical strength similar to native osteochondral tissue as a benefit of the PCL backbone, but also maintained cell-friendly microenvironment of the hydrogel. The PCL network with homogeneously-controlled pore size and total pore interconnectivity was fabricated by fused deposition modeling (FDM), and was impregnated into the PLGA–PEG–PLGA solution at low temperature (e.g., 4 °C). The PCL/Gel composite scaffold was obtained after gelation induced by incubation at body temperature (i.e., 37 °C). The composite scaffold showed a greater number of cell retention and proliferation in comparison to the PCL platform. In addition, the composite scaffold promoted the encapsulated mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to differentiate chondrogenically with a greater amount of cartilage-specific matrix production compared to the PCL scaffold or thermogel. Therefore, the 3D PCL/Gel composite scaffold may exhibit great potential for in vivo cartilage regeneration. Full article

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11469 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanical Characterization of the Tensile Properties of Glass Fiber and Its Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) Composite under Varying Strain Rates and Temperatures

by Yunfu Ou, Deju Zhu, Huaian Zhang, Liang Huang, Yiming Yao, Gaosheng Li and Barzin Mobasher

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 196; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050196 - 19 May 2016

Cited by 90 | Viewed by 10121

Abstract

Unidirectional glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) is tested at four initial strain rates (25, 50, 100 and 200 s⁻¹) and six temperatures (−25, 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 °C) on a servo-hydraulic high-rate testing system to investigate any possible effects [...] Read more.

Unidirectional glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) is tested at four initial strain rates (25, 50, 100 and 200 s⁻¹) and six temperatures (−25, 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 °C) on a servo-hydraulic high-rate testing system to investigate any possible effects on their mechanical properties and failure patterns. Meanwhile, for the sake of illuminating strain rate and temperature effect mechanisms, glass yarn samples were complementally tested at four different strain rates (40, 80, 120 and 160 s⁻¹) and varying temperatures (25, 50, 75 and 100 °C) utilizing an Instron drop-weight impact system. In addition, quasi-static properties of GFRP and glass yarn are supplemented as references. The stress–strain responses at varying strain rates and elevated temperatures are discussed. A Weibull statistics model is used to quantify the degree of variability in tensile strength and to obtain Weibull parameters for engineering applications. Full article

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7212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Repair Effect of Seaweed Polysaccharides with Different Contents of Sulfate Group and Molecular Weights on Damaged HK-2 Cells

by Poonam Bhadja, Cai-Yan Tan, Jian-Ming Ouyang and Kai Yu

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050188 - 19 May 2016

Cited by 61 | Viewed by 7574

Abstract

The structure–activity relationships and repair mechanism of six low-molecular-weight seaweed polysaccharides (SPSs) on oxalate-induced damaged human kidney proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2) were investigated. These SPSs included Laminaria japonica polysaccharide, degraded Porphyra yezoensis polysaccharide, degraded Gracilaria lemaneiformis polysaccharide, degraded Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharide, Eucheuma [...] Read more.

The structure–activity relationships and repair mechanism of six low-molecular-weight seaweed polysaccharides (SPSs) on oxalate-induced damaged human kidney proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2) were investigated. These SPSs included Laminaria japonica polysaccharide, degraded Porphyra yezoensis polysaccharide, degraded Gracilaria lemaneiformis polysaccharide, degraded Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharide, Eucheuma gelatinae polysaccharide, and degraded Undaria pinnatifida polysaccharide. These SPSs have a narrow difference of molecular weight (from 1968 to 4020 Da) after degradation by controlling H₂O₂ concentration. The sulfate group (–SO₃H) content of the six SPSs was 21.7%, 17.9%, 13.3%, 8.2%, 7.0%, and 5.5%, respectively, and the –COOH contents varied between 1.0% to 1.7%. After degradation, no significant difference was observed in the contents of characteristic –SO₃H and –COOH groups of polysaccharides. The repair effect of polysaccharides was determined using cell-viability test by CCK-8 assay and cell-morphology test by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The results revealed that these SPSs within 0.1–100 μg/mL did not express cytotoxicity in HK-2 cells, and each polysaccharide had a repair effect on oxalate-induced damaged HK-2 cells. Simultaneously, the content of polysaccharide –SO₃H was positively correlated with repair ability. Furthermore, the low-molecular-weight degraded polysaccharides showed better repair activity on damaged HK-2 cells than their undegraded counterpart. Our results can provide reference for inhibiting the formation of kidney stones and for developing original anti-stone polysaccharide drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Polysaccharides)

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5216 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Poly(Acrylic acid)–Based Hybrid Inorganic–Organic Electrolytes Membrane for Electrical Double Layer Capacitors Application

by Chiam-Wen Liew, H.M. Ng, Arshid Numan and S. Ramesh

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050179 - 18 May 2016

Cited by 57 | Viewed by 11986

Abstract

Nanocomposite polymer electrolyte membranes (NCPEMs) based on poly(acrylic acid)(PAA) and titania (TiO₂) are prepared by a solution casting technique. The ionic conductivity of NCPEMs increases with the weight ratio of TiO₂.The highest ionic conductivity of (8.36 ± 0.01) × [...] Read more.

Nanocomposite polymer electrolyte membranes (NCPEMs) based on poly(acrylic acid)(PAA) and titania (TiO₂) are prepared by a solution casting technique. The ionic conductivity of NCPEMs increases with the weight ratio of TiO₂.The highest ionic conductivity of (8.36 ± 0.01) × 10⁻⁴ S·cm⁻¹ is obtained with addition of 6 wt % of TiO₂ at ambient temperature. The complexation between PAA, LiTFSI and TiO₂ is discussed in Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) studies. Electrical double layer capacitors (EDLCs) are fabricated using the filler-free polymer electrolyte or the most conducting NCPEM and carbon-based electrodes. The electrochemical performances of fabricated EDLCs are studied through cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge-discharge studies. EDLC comprising NCPEM shows the specific capacitance of 28.56 F·g⁻¹ (or equivalent to 29.54 mF·cm⁻²) with excellent electrochemical stability. Full article

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3921 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Simulation and Experimental Investigation of the Viscoelastic Heating Mechanism in Ultrasonic Plasticizing of Amorphous Polymers for Micro Injection Molding

by Bingyan Jiang, Huajian Peng, Wangqing Wu, Yunlong Jia and Yingping Zhang

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050199 - 17 May 2016

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 6384

Abstract

Ultrasonic plasticizing of polymers for micro-injection molding has been proposed and studied for its unique potential in materials and energy-saving. In our previous work, we have demonstrated the characteristics of the interfacial friction heating mechanism in ultrasonic plasticizing of polymer granulates. In this [...] Read more.

Ultrasonic plasticizing of polymers for micro-injection molding has been proposed and studied for its unique potential in materials and energy-saving. In our previous work, we have demonstrated the characteristics of the interfacial friction heating mechanism in ultrasonic plasticizing of polymer granulates. In this paper, the other important heating mechanism in ultrasonic plasticizing, i.e., viscoelastic heating for amorphous polymer, was studied by both theoretical modeling and experimentation. The influence mechanism of several parameters, such as the initial temperature of the polymer, the ultrasonic frequency, and the ultrasonic amplitude, was investigated. The results from both numerical simulation and experimentation indicate that the heat generation rate of viscoelastic heating can be significantly influenced by the initial temperature of polymer. The glass transition temperature was found to be a significant shifting point in viscoelastic heating. The heat generation rate is relatively low at the beginning and can have a steep increase after reaching glass transition temperature. In comparison with the ultrasonic frequency, the ultrasonic amplitude has much greater influence on the heat generation rate. In light of the quantitative difference in the viscoelastic heating rate, the limitation of the numerical simulation was discussed in the aspect of the assumptions and the applied mathematical models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and Simulation in Polymer)

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3117 KiB

Open AccessReview

Supramolecular Nanostructures Based on Cyclodextrin and Poly(ethylene oxide): Syntheses, Structural Characterizations and Applications for Drug Delivery

by Yue Zheng and Ian W. Wyman

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 198; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050198 - 17 May 2016

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 8543

Abstract

Cyclodextrins (CDs) have been extensively studied as drug delivery carriers through host–guest interactions. CD-based poly(pseudo)rotaxanes, which are composed of one or more CD rings threading on the polymer chain with or without bulky groups (or stoppers), have attracted great interest in the development [...] Read more.

Cyclodextrins (CDs) have been extensively studied as drug delivery carriers through host–guest interactions. CD-based poly(pseudo)rotaxanes, which are composed of one or more CD rings threading on the polymer chain with or without bulky groups (or stoppers), have attracted great interest in the development of supramolecular biomaterials. Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) is a water-soluble, biocompatible polymer. Depending on the molecular weight, PEO can be used as a plasticizer or as a toughening agent. Moreover, the hydrogels of PEO are also extensively studied because of their outstanding characteristics in biological drug delivery systems. These biomaterials based on CD and PEO for controlled drug delivery have received increasing attention in recent years. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in supramolecular architectures, focusing on poly(pseudo)rotaxanes, vesicles and supramolecular hydrogels based on CDs and PEO for drug delivery. Particular focus will be devoted to the structures and properties of supramolecular copolymers based on these materials as well as their use for the design and synthesis of supramolecular hydrogels. Moreover, the various applications of drug delivery techniques such as drug absorption, controlled release and drug targeting based CD/PEO supramolecular complexes, are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Polysaccharides)

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3235 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aerosol-Assisted Fast Formulating Uniform Pharmaceutical Polymer Microparticles with Variable Properties toward pH-Sensitive Controlled Drug Release

by Hong Lei, Xingmin Gao, Winston Duo Wu, Zhangxiong Wu and Xiao Dong Chen

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 195; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050195 - 14 May 2016

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 7472

Abstract

Microencapsulation is highly attractive for oral drug delivery. Microparticles are a common form of drug carrier for this purpose. There is still a high demand on efficient methods to fabricate microparticles with uniform sizes and well-controlled particle properties. In this paper, uniform hydroxypropyl [...] Read more.

Microencapsulation is highly attractive for oral drug delivery. Microparticles are a common form of drug carrier for this purpose. There is still a high demand on efficient methods to fabricate microparticles with uniform sizes and well-controlled particle properties. In this paper, uniform hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP)-based pharmaceutical microparticles loaded with either hydrophobic or hydrophilic model drugs have been directly formulated by using a unique aerosol technique, i.e., the microfluidic spray drying technology. A series of microparticles of controllable particle sizes, shapes, and structures are fabricated by tuning the solvent composition and drying temperature. It is found that a more volatile solvent and a higher drying temperature can result in fast evaporation rates to form microparticles of larger lateral size, more irregular shape, and denser matrix. The nature of the model drugs also plays an important role in determining particle properties. The drug release behaviors of the pharmaceutical microparticles are dependent on their structural properties and the nature of a specific drug, as well as sensitive to the pH value of the release medium. Most importantly, drugs in the microparticles obtained by using a more volatile solvent or a higher drying temperature can be well protected from degradation in harsh simulated gastric fluids due to the dense structures of the microparticles, while they can be fast-released in simulated intestinal fluids through particle dissolution. These pharmaceutical microparticles are potentially useful for site-specific (enteric) delivery of orally-administered drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ASEPFPM2015)

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8592 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polyester-Based, Biodegradable Core-Multishell Nanocarriers for the Transport of Hydrophobic Drugs

by Karolina A. Walker, Jean-François Stumbé and Rainer Haag

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050192 - 14 May 2016

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 8018

Abstract

A water-soluble, core-multishell (CMS) nanocarrier based on a new hyperbranched polyester core building block was synthesized and characterized towards drug transport and degradation of the nanocarrier. The hydrophobic drug dexamethasone was encapsulated and the enzyme-mediated biodegradability was investigated by NMR spectroscopy. The new [...] Read more.

A water-soluble, core-multishell (CMS) nanocarrier based on a new hyperbranched polyester core building block was synthesized and characterized towards drug transport and degradation of the nanocarrier. The hydrophobic drug dexamethasone was encapsulated and the enzyme-mediated biodegradability was investigated by NMR spectroscopy. The new CMS nanocarrier can transport one molecule of dexamethasone and degrades within five days at a skin temperature of 32 °C to biocompatible fragments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymers for Aqueous Media)

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2958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Papain-Catalyzed Synthesis of Polyglutamate Containing a Nylon Monomer Unit

by Kenjiro Yazawa and Keiji Numata

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050194 - 13 May 2016

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 9549

Abstract

Peptides have the potential to serve as an alternative for petroleum-based polymers to support a sustainable society. However, they lack thermoplasticity, owing to their strong intermolecular interactions. In contrast, nylon is famous for its thermoplasticity and chemical resistance. Here, we synthesized peptides containing [...] Read more.

Peptides have the potential to serve as an alternative for petroleum-based polymers to support a sustainable society. However, they lack thermoplasticity, owing to their strong intermolecular interactions. In contrast, nylon is famous for its thermoplasticity and chemical resistance. Here, we synthesized peptides containing a nylon unit to modify their thermal properties by using papain-catalyzed chemoenzymatic polymerization. We used l-glutamic acid alkyl ester as the amino acid monomer and nylon 1, 3, 4, and 6 alkyl esters as the nylon unit. Papain catalyzed the copolymerization of glutamic acid with nylon 3, 4, and 6 alkyl esters, whereas the nylon 1 unit could not be copolymerized. Other proteases used in this study, namely, bromelain, proteinase K, and Candida antarctica lipase (CALB), were not able to copolymerize with any nylon units. The broad substrate specificity of papain enabled the copolymerization of l-glutamic acid with a nylon unit. The peptides with nylon units demonstrated different thermal profiles from that of oligo(l-glutamic acid). Therefore, the resultant peptides with various nylon units are expected to form fewer intermolecular hydrogen bonds, thus altering their thermal properties. This finding is expected to broaden the applications of peptide materials and chemoenzymatic polymerization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enzymatic Polymer Synthesis)

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6133 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells on Gutta-Percha Scaffolds

by Liudi Zhang, Yingjie Yu, Christopher Joubert, George Bruder, Ying Liu, Chung-Chueh Chang, Marcia Simon, Stephen G. Walker and Miriam Rafailovich

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050193 - 13 May 2016

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6377

Abstract

Advances in treatment of tooth injury have shown that tooth regeneration from the pulp was a viable alternative of root canal therapy. In this study, we demonstrated that Gutta-percha, nanocomposites primarily used for obturation of the canal, are not cytotoxic and can induce [...] Read more.

Advances in treatment of tooth injury have shown that tooth regeneration from the pulp was a viable alternative of root canal therapy. In this study, we demonstrated that Gutta-percha, nanocomposites primarily used for obturation of the canal, are not cytotoxic and can induce differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) in the absence of soluble mediators. Flat scaffolds were obtained by spin coating Si wafers with three Gutta-percha compounds: GuttaCore™, ProTaper™, and Lexicon™. The images of annealed surfaces showed that the nanoparticles were encapsulated, forming surfaces with root mean square (RMS) roughness of 136–211 nm. Then, by culturing DPSC on these substrates we found that after some initial difficulty in adhesion, confluent tissues were formed after 21 days. Imaging of the polyisoprene (PI) surfaces showed that biomineral deposition only occurred when dexamethasone was present in the media. Spectra obtained from the minerals was consistent with that of hydroxyapatite (HA). In contrast, HA deposition was observed on all Gutta-percha scaffolds regardless of the presence or absence of dexamethasone, implying that surface roughness may be an enabling factor in the differentiation process. These results indicate that Gutta-percha nanocomposites may be good candidates for pulp regeneration therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Polymers for Medical Applications)

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2417 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Lithium Iodide to the Properties of Carboxymethyl κ-Carrageenan/Carboxymethyl Cellulose Polymer Electrolyte and Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Performance

by Siti Rudhziah Che Balian, Azizan Ahmad and Nor Sabirin Mohamed

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050163 - 13 May 2016

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5667

Abstract

This study was undertaken to investigate the solid biopolymer electrolytes based on a carboxymethyl κ-carrageenan/carboxymethyl cellulose blend complexed with lithium iodide of various weight ratios. The complexation of the doping salt with the polymer blend was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Ionic [...] Read more.

This study was undertaken to investigate the solid biopolymer electrolytes based on a carboxymethyl κ-carrageenan/carboxymethyl cellulose blend complexed with lithium iodide of various weight ratios. The complexation of the doping salt with the polymer blend was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Ionic conductivity of the film was determined by impedance spectroscopy in the frequency range of 10 Hz to 4 MHz and in the temperature range of 303–338 K. The ionic conductivity increased with the increase in lithium iodide concentration as well as temperature. The membrane comprising 30 wt % of lithium iodide was found to give the highest conductivity of 3.89 × 10⁻³ S·cm⁻¹ at room temperature. The increase in conductivity was associated with the increase in the number as well as the mobility of the charge carries. The conductivity increase with temperature followed the Vogel–Tamman–Fulcher model. The fabricated dye-sensitive solar cell, FTO/TiO₂-dye/CMKC/CMCE-LiI (30 wt %) +I₂/Pt exhibited the highest conversion efficiency of 0.11% at a light intensity of 100 mW·cm⁻². This indicated that the biopolymer blend electrolyte system has potential for use in dye-sensitized solar cells. Full article

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4991 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Recent Advances in Boron-Containing Conjugated Porous Polymers

by Feng Qiu, Wuxue Zhao, Sheng Han, Xiaodong Zhuang, Hualin Lin and Fan Zhang

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050191 - 12 May 2016

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 14348

Abstract

Porous polymers, integrating the advantages of porous materials and conventional polymers, have been well developed and exhibited tremendous attention in the fields of material, chemistry and biology. Of these, boron-containing conjugated porous polymers, featuring tunable geometric structures, unique Lewis acid boron centers and [...] Read more.

Porous polymers, integrating the advantages of porous materials and conventional polymers, have been well developed and exhibited tremendous attention in the fields of material, chemistry and biology. Of these, boron-containing conjugated porous polymers, featuring tunable geometric structures, unique Lewis acid boron centers and very rich physical properties, such as high specific surface, chargeable scaffold, strong photoluminescence and intramolecular charge transfer, have emerged as one of the most promising functional materials for optoelectronics, catalysis and sensing, etc. Furthermore, upon thermal treatment, some of them can be effectively converted to boron-doped porous carbon materials with good electrochemical performance in energy storage and conversion, extensively enlarging the applicable scope of such kinds of polymers. In this review, the synthetic approaches, structure analyses and various applications of the boron-containing conjugated porous polymers reported very recently are summarized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conductive Polymers 2016)

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4440 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Water Vapor Transmission through Porous Membranes Based on Melt Blending of Polystyrene Sulfonate with Polyethylene Copolymers and Their CNT Nanocomposites

by Georgia Ch. Lainioti, Giannis Bounos, George A. Voyiatzis and Joannis K. Kallitsis

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050190 - 12 May 2016

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 8053

Abstract

A novel concept for the use of an immiscible and non-meltable polymer, such as sodium polystyrene sulfonate (PSSNa), in order to prepare polyethylene non-woven breathable membranes is described. Membranes were fabricated by melt compounding of properly functionalized PE (P(E-co-AA)) and PSSNa [...] Read more.

A novel concept for the use of an immiscible and non-meltable polymer, such as sodium polystyrene sulfonate (PSSNa), in order to prepare polyethylene non-woven breathable membranes is described. Membranes were fabricated by melt compounding of properly functionalized PE (P(E-co-AA)) and PSSNa (P(SSNa-co-GMA)) copolymers in the presence of water soluble polyethylene glycol (PEG). The inability of PSSNa derivatives to be melted was overcome by using PEG, which was easily meltable thus inducing PSSNa processability improvement. PEG was removed after membrane fabrication and therefore also acted as a porogen. Carbon nanotubes, functionalized with PSSNa moieties or alkyl groups, were also incorporated in the membranes with the aim of improving the porous connectivity and increasing the water vapor transmission rate. The morphology of the membranes was investigated through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Water vapor transmission rate (permeation) (WVTR) measurements for the porous membranes showed increased values in comparison with the neat PE ones. A further increase of WVTR was observed with the addition of CNTs to the polymer membranes. Full article

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3266 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Characterization of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) with Hydrophobic Properties and Excellent Thermal Stability

by Wonseok Cho, Soeun Im, Seyul Kim, Soyeon Kim and Jung Hyun Kim

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050189 - 12 May 2016

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7768

Abstract

Hydrophobic and comparatively thermally-stable poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), i.e., poly(styrene sulfonate-co-vinyltrimethoxysilane) (PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS)) copolymer was successfully synthesized via the introduction of silane coupling agent into the PSS main chain to form P(SS-co-VTMS) copolymers. PSS and P(SS-co-VMTS) copolymers were [...] Read more.

Hydrophobic and comparatively thermally-stable poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), i.e., poly(styrene sulfonate-co-vinyltrimethoxysilane) (PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS)) copolymer was successfully synthesized via the introduction of silane coupling agent into the PSS main chain to form P(SS-co-VTMS) copolymers. PSS and P(SS-co-VMTS) copolymers were successfully synthesized via radical solution polymerization, and PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) was synthesized via Fe⁺-catalyzed oxidative polymerization. The characterization of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) was performed through an analysis of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results, water contact angle and optical images. The electrical properties of conductive PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) thin films were evaluated by studying the influence of the VTMS content on the electrical and physical properties. The conductivity of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) decreased with an increase in the VTMS content, but was close to that of the PEDOT:PSS, 235.9 S·cm⁻¹. The introduction of VTMS into the PSS copolymer improved the mechanical properties and thermal stability and increased the hydrophobicity. The thermal stability test at a temperature over 240 °C indicated that the sheet resistance of PEDOT:PSS increased by 3,012%. The sheet resistance of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS), on the other hand, only increased by 480%. The stability of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) was six-times higher than that of the reference PEDOT:PSS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conductive Polymers 2016)

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3049 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cross-Sectional Unification on the Stress-Strain Model of Concrete Subjected to High Passive Confinement by Fiber-Reinforced Polymer

by Yu-Gui Cao, Cheng Jiang and Yu-Fei Wu

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050186 - 11 May 2016

Cited by 70 | Viewed by 6408

Abstract

The stress-strain behavior of concrete can be improved by providing a lateral passive confining pressure, such as fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) wrapping. Many axial stress-strain models have been proposed for FRP-confined concrete columns. However, few models can predict the stress-strain behavior of confined concrete [...] Read more.

The stress-strain behavior of concrete can be improved by providing a lateral passive confining pressure, such as fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) wrapping. Many axial stress-strain models have been proposed for FRP-confined concrete columns. However, few models can predict the stress-strain behavior of confined concrete columns with more than two specified cross-sections. A stress-strain model of FRP-confined concrete columns with cross-sectional unification was developed in this paper based on a database from the existing literature that includes circular, square, rectangular and elliptical concrete columns that are highly confined by FRP jackets. Using the database, the existing theoretical models were evaluated. In addition, the ultimate stress and strain models with cross-sectional unification were proposed using two parameters: the cross-sectional aspect ratio and corner radius ratio. The elliptical cross-section can be considered as a rectangular one with a special corner radius for the model calculations. A simple and accurate model of the equivalent corner radius ratio for elliptical columns was proposed. Compared to the other existing models and experimental data, the proposed models show good performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites in Structural Engineering)

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3576 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Geometrical Asymmetry on the Phase Behavior of Rod-Coil Diblock Copolymers

by Jingying Yu, Faqiang Liu, Ping Tang, Feng Qiu, Hongdong Zhang and Yuliang Yang

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050184 - 11 May 2016

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4949

Abstract

The effect of geometrical asymmetry β (described by the length-diameter ratio of rods) on the rod-coil diblock copolymer phase behavior is studied by implementation of self-consistent field theory (SCFT) in three-dimensional (3D) position space while considering the rod orientation on the spherical surface. [...] Read more.

The effect of geometrical asymmetry β (described by the length-diameter ratio of rods) on the rod-coil diblock copolymer phase behavior is studied by implementation of self-consistent field theory (SCFT) in three-dimensional (3D) position space while considering the rod orientation on the spherical surface. The phase diagrams at different geometrical asymmetry show that the aspect ratio of rods β influences not only the order-disorder transition (ODT) but also the order-order transition (OOT). By exploring the phase diagram with interactions between rods and coils plotted against β, the β effect on the phase diagram is similar to the copolymer composition f. This suggests that non-lamellae structures can be obtained by tuning β, besides f. When the rods are slim compared with the isotropic shape of the coil segment (β is relatively large), the phase behavior is quite different from that of coil-coil diblock copolymers. In this case, only hexagonal cylinders with the coil at the convex side of the interface and lamella phases are stable even in the absence of orientational interaction between rods. The phase diagram is no longer symmetrical about the symmetric copolymer composition and cylinder phases occupy the large area of the phase diagram. The ODT is much lower than that of the coil-coil diblock copolymer system and the triple point at which disordered, cylinder and lamella phases coexist in equilibrium is located at rod composition f_R = 0.66. In contrast, when the rods are short and stumpy (β is smaller), the stretching entropy cost of coils can be alleviated and the phase behavior is similar to coil-coil diblocks. Therefore, the hexagonal cylinder phase formed by coils is also found beside the former two structures. Moreover, the ODT may even become a little higher than that of the coil-coil diblock copolymers due to the large interfacial area per chain provided by the stumpy rods, thus compensating the stretching entropy loss of the coils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Semiflexible Polymers)

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1415 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Characterization of Polystyrene-Supported Piperazine-Substituted Triazoles by CuAAC and First Evaluation for Metal Ion Extraction

by Riadh Slimi, Raja Ben Othman, Noomene Sleimi, Abid Ouerghui and Christian Girard

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050187 - 10 May 2016

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5935

Abstract

The goal of this work was to synthesize substituted polystyrene for metal extraction and/or depollution by introduction of substituted piperazines as chelatants starting from Merrifield polymer. After transformation of Merrifield’s resin in azidomethyl polystyrene, click-chemistry using copper (I)-catalyzed Huisgen’s reaction (CuAAC) was performed [...] Read more.

The goal of this work was to synthesize substituted polystyrene for metal extraction and/or depollution by introduction of substituted piperazines as chelatants starting from Merrifield polymer. After transformation of Merrifield’s resin in azidomethyl polystyrene, click-chemistry using copper (I)-catalyzed Huisgen’s reaction (CuAAC) was performed to prepare different polymers grafted with 1,4-triazoles bearing the piperazines, containing an alkyne as the other counterpart in the CuAAC. The polymers were then first tested for their efficiency to remove various metal ions from neutral aqueous solutions (Fe³⁺, Ni²⁺, Cu²⁺, Zn²⁺ and Pb²⁺). The polymers were found to extract Ni²⁺ and Zn²⁺ with low efficiencies ≤40%. For Fe³⁺ and Cu²⁺, the average extraction was around 80%, and for Pb²⁺ around 50%. The global selectivity for these polymers was found to be in the order of Fe³⁺ ≥ Cu²⁺ > Pb²⁺ >> Ni²⁺ > Zn²⁺. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal-Mediated Polymer Synthesis)

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3486 KiB

Open AccessReview

Electro-Active Polymers (EAPs): A Promising Route to Design Bio-Organic/Bioinspired Platforms with on Demand Functionalities

by Vincenzo Guarino, Simona Zuppolini, Anna Borriello and Luigi Ambrosio

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050185 - 09 May 2016

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 10416

Abstract

Through recent discoveries and new knowledge among correlations between molecular biology and materials science, it is a growing interest to design new biomaterials able to interact—i.e., to influence, to guide or to detect—with cells and their surrounding microenvironments, in order to [...] Read more.

Through recent discoveries and new knowledge among correlations between molecular biology and materials science, it is a growing interest to design new biomaterials able to interact—i.e., to influence, to guide or to detect—with cells and their surrounding microenvironments, in order to better control biological phenomena. In this context, electro-active polymers (EAPs) are showing great promise as biomaterials acting as an interface between electronics and biology. This is ascribable to the highly tunability of chemical/physical properties which confer them different conductive properties for various applicative uses (i.e., molecular targeting, biosensors, biocompatible scaffolds). This review article is divided into three parts: the first one is an overview on EAPs to introduce basic conductivity mechanisms and their classification. The second one is focused on the description of most common processes used to manipulate EAPs in the form of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) materials. The last part addresses their use in current applications in different biomedical research areas including tissue engineering, biosensors and molecular delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Polymers for Medical Applications)

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5481 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Light and Temperature as Dual Stimuli Lead to Self-Assembly of Hyperbranched Azobenzene-Terminated Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)

by Wenyan Huang, Jing Yang, Yunqing Xia, Xuezi Wang, Xiaoqiang Xue, Hongjun Yang, Guifang Wang, Bibiao Jiang, Fang Li and Sridhar Komarneni

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050183 - 07 May 2016

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6193

Abstract

Hyperbranched poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)s (HBPNIPAMs) end-capped with different azobenzene chromophores (HBPNIPAM-Azo-OC₃H₇, HBPNIPAM-Azo-OCH₃, HBPNIPAM-Azo, and HBPNIPAM-Azo-COOH) were successfully synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of N-isopropylacrylamide using different azobenzene-functional initiators. All HBPNIPAMs showed a similar highly [...] Read more.

Hyperbranched poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)s (HBPNIPAMs) end-capped with different azobenzene chromophores (HBPNIPAM-Azo-OC₃H₇, HBPNIPAM-Azo-OCH₃, HBPNIPAM-Azo, and HBPNIPAM-Azo-COOH) were successfully synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of N-isopropylacrylamide using different azobenzene-functional initiators. All HBPNIPAMs showed a similar highly branched structure, similar content of azobenzene chromophores, and similar absolute weight/average molecular weight. The different azobenzene structures at the end of the HBPNIPAMs exhibited reversible trans-cis-trans isomerization behavior under alternating UV and Vis irradiation, which lowered the critical solution temperature (LCST) due to different self-assembling behaviors. The spherical aggregates of HBPNIPAM-Azo-OC₃H₇ and HBPNIPAM-Azo-OCH₃ containing hydrophobic para substituents either changed to bigger nanorods or increased in number, leading to a change in LCST of −2.0 and −1.0 °C, respectively, after UV irradiation. However, the unimolecular aggregates of HBPNIPAM-Azo were unchanged, while the unstable multimolecular particles of HBPNIPAM-Azo-COOH end-capped with strongly polar carboxyl groups partly dissociated to form a greater number of unimolecular aggregates and led to an LCST increase of 1.0 °C. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Controlled/Living Radical Polymerization)

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5323 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hydrogel is Superior to Fibrin Gel as Matrix of Stem Cells in Alleviating Antigen-Induced Arthritis

by He Liu, Jianxun Ding, Chen Li, Chenyu Wang, Yinan Wang, Jincheng Wang and Fei Chang

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050182 - 06 May 2016

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6597

Abstract

Recently, therapy with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) has been attempted to relieve rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and reconstruct cartilage injury. However, treatment has been unsuccessful in complete prevention of persistent cartilage destruction and resulted in inferior outcomes of cartilage regeneration. Scaffolds are [...] Read more.

Recently, therapy with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) has been attempted to relieve rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and reconstruct cartilage injury. However, treatment has been unsuccessful in complete prevention of persistent cartilage destruction and resulted in inferior outcomes of cartilage regeneration. Scaffolds are an important construct in the field of cartilage tissue engineering, but their role in arthritis treatment has not yet been fully examined. Here, we transplanted two types of scaffold-assisted BMMSCs: fibrin gel- and poly(l-lactide-co-glycolide)−poly(ethylene glycol)−poly(l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA−PEG−PLGA) hydrogel-assisted BMMSCs referred as FGB and HGB groups, respectively, into subchondral defects for the treatment of antigen-induced arthritis. The administration of exogenous BMMSCs ameliorated joint swelling and decreased both joint surface temperature and inflammatory cytokine levels in both groups. Immune cell composition of the inflammation of surrounding synovium, protection of adjacent cartilage, and improved cartilage repair were also observed. Overall, the HGB group had a better therapeutic efficacy than the FGB group. In conclusion, local transplantation of BMMSCs in subchondral defects presents a novel approach in inducing RA remission and recovery of RA-induced cartilage injury. To induce these changes, the selection of scaffold for cell support is exceedingly important. Further studies are needed regarding the treatment options of subchondral defects in arthritis based on modified scaffold development, application of defined MSCs sources, combination of pharmacotherapeutics, and the addition of factors that inhibit the processes of RA remission, promote the recovery of RA-induced cartilage injury and the relationship between these factors. Full article

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2264 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Co-Assembly of Graphene Oxide and Albumin/Photosensitizer Nanohybrids towards Enhanced Photodynamic Therapy

by Ruirui Xing, Tifeng Jiao, Yamei Liu, Kai Ma, Qianli Zou, Guanghui Ma and Xuehai Yan

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 181; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050181 - 04 May 2016

Cited by 116 | Viewed by 9174

Abstract

The inactivation of photosensitizers before they reach the targeted tissues can be an important factor, which limits the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT). Here, we developed co-assembled nanohybrids of graphene oxide (GO) and albumin/photosensitizer that have a potential for protecting the photosensitizers from [...] Read more.

The inactivation of photosensitizers before they reach the targeted tissues can be an important factor, which limits the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT). Here, we developed co-assembled nanohybrids of graphene oxide (GO) and albumin/photosensitizer that have a potential for protecting the photosensitizers from the environment and releasing them in targeted sites, allowing for an enhanced PDT. The nanohybrids were prepared by loading the pre-assembled nanoparticles of chlorin e6 (Ce6) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) on GO via non-covalent interactions. The protection to Ce6 is evident from the inhibited fluorescence and singlet oxygen generation activities of Ce6–BSA–GO nanohybrids. Importantly, compared to free Ce6 and Ce6 directly loaded by GO (Ce6–GO), Ce6–BSA–GO nanohybrids showed enhanced cellular uptake and in vitro release of Ce6, leading to an improved PDT efficiency. These results indicate that the smart photosensitizer delivery system constructed by co-assembly of GO and albumin is promising to improve the stability, biocompatibility, and efficiency of PDT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from ASEPFPM2015)

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7752 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Porphyrin Diacid-Polyelectrolyte Assemblies: Effective Photocatalysts in Solution

by Sabine Frühbeißer, Giacomo Mariani and Franziska Gröhn

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050180 - 04 May 2016

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 7191

Abstract

Developing effective and versatile photocatalytic systems is of great potential in solar energy conversion. Here we investigate the formation of supramolecular catalysts by electrostatic self-assembly in aqueous solution: Combining positively charged porphyrins with negatively charged polyelectrolytes leads to nanoscale assemblies where, next to [...] Read more.

Developing effective and versatile photocatalytic systems is of great potential in solar energy conversion. Here we investigate the formation of supramolecular catalysts by electrostatic self-assembly in aqueous solution: Combining positively charged porphyrins with negatively charged polyelectrolytes leads to nanoscale assemblies where, next to electrostatic interactions, π–π interactions also play an important role. Porphyrin diacid-polyelectrolyte assemblies exhibit a substantially enhanced catalytic activity for the light-driven oxidation of iodide. Aggregates with the hexavalent cationic porphyrin diacids show up to 22 times higher catalytic activity than the corresponding aggregates under neutral conditions. The catalytic activity can be increased by increasing the valency of the porphyrin and by choice of the loading ratio. The structural investigation of the supramolecular catalysts took place via atomic force microscopy and small angle neutron scattering. Hence, a new facile concept for the design of efficient and tunable self-assembled photocatalysts is presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Polyelectrolytes)

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2827 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation of Jetting in Injection Molding Using a Finite Volume Method

by Shaozhen Hua, Shixun Zhang, Wei Cao, Yaming Wang, Chunguang Shao, Chuntai Liu, Binbin Dong and Changyu Shen

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050172 - 04 May 2016

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 8770

Abstract

In order to predict the jetting and the subsequent buckling flow more accurately, a three dimensional melt flow model was established on a viscous, incompressible, and non-isothermal fluid, and a control volume-based finite volume method was employed to discretize the governing equations. A [...] Read more.

In order to predict the jetting and the subsequent buckling flow more accurately, a three dimensional melt flow model was established on a viscous, incompressible, and non-isothermal fluid, and a control volume-based finite volume method was employed to discretize the governing equations. A two-fold iterative method was proposed to decouple the dependence among pressure, velocity, and temperature so as to reduce the computation and improve the numerical stability. Based on the proposed theoretical model and numerical method, a program code was developed to simulate melt front progress and flow fields. The numerical simulations for different injection speeds, melt temperatures, and gate locations were carried out to explore the jetting mechanism. The results indicate the filling pattern depends on the competition between inertial and viscous forces. When inertial force exceeds the viscous force jetting occurs, then it changes to a buckling flow as the viscous force competes over the inertial force. Once the melt contacts with the mold wall, the melt filling switches to conventional sequential filling mode. Numerical results also indicate jetting length increases with injection speed but changes little with melt temperature. The reasonable agreements between simulated and experimental jetting length and buckling frequency imply the proposed method is valid for jetting simulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and Simulation in Polymer)

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7414 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Alginate–Chitosan Complex Formed with Different Polymers Ratio

by Dominika Kulig, Anna Zimoch-Korzycka, Andrzej Jarmoluk and Krzysztof Marycz

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050167 - 04 May 2016

Cited by 158 | Viewed by 11187

Abstract

Biomaterials based on polyelectrolyte complexation are an innovative concept of coatings and packaging production to be applied in a wide range of food products. The aim of this study was to obtain and characterize a sodium alginate–chitosan complex material with variable degree of [...] Read more.

Biomaterials based on polyelectrolyte complexation are an innovative concept of coatings and packaging production to be applied in a wide range of food products. The aim of this study was to obtain and characterize a sodium alginate–chitosan complex material with variable degree of polyion interactions by complexation of oppositely charged polysaccharides. In order to characterize polyelectrolyte complexes, theromogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization technique with time of flight analyzer (MALDI-TOF), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed. TGA analysis showed that thermal decomposition temperature depends on the polymer ratio (R) and thermal resistance of samples was improved by increasing chitosan dosage. Accordingly to DMTA results, polyelectrolyte complexation led to obtain more flexible and resistant to mechanical deformation materials. Comparative analysis of the FTIR spectra of single polyelectrolytes, chitosan and alginate, and their mixtures indicated the formation of the polyelectrolyte complex without addition of reinforcing substances. MALDI-TOF analysis confirms the creation of polyelectrolyte aggregates (~197 Da) in samples with R ≥ 0.8; and their chemical stability and safety were proven by NMR analysis. The higher R the greater the number of polyanion–polycation aggregates seen in SEM as film morphology roughness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Polysaccharides)

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2185 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Amyloid Beta Aggregation in the Presence of Temperature-Sensitive Polymers

by Sebastian Funtan, Zhanna Evgrafova, Juliane Adler, Daniel Huster and Wolfgang H. Binder

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050178 - 02 May 2016

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 9279

Abstract

The formation of amyloid fibrils is considered to be one of the main causes for many neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or Huntington’s disease. Current knowledge suggests that amyloid-aggregation represents a nucleation-dependent aggregation process in vitro, where a sigmoidal growth phase [...] Read more.

The formation of amyloid fibrils is considered to be one of the main causes for many neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or Huntington’s disease. Current knowledge suggests that amyloid-aggregation represents a nucleation-dependent aggregation process in vitro, where a sigmoidal growth phase follows an induction period. Here, we studied the fibrillation of amyloid β 1-40 (Aβ₄₀) in the presence of thermoresponsive polymers, expected to alter the Aβ₄₀ fibrillation kinetics due to their lower critical solution behavior. To probe the influence of molecular weight and the end groups of the polymer on its lower critical solution temperature (LCST), also considering its concentration dependence in the presence of buffer-salts needed for the aggregation studies of the amyloids, poly(oxazolines) (POx) with LCSTs ranging from 14.2–49.8 °C and poly(methoxy di(ethylene glycol)acrylates) with LCSTs ranging from 34.4–52.7 °C were synthesized. The two different polymers allowed the comparison of the influence of different molecular structures onto the fibrillation process. Mixtures of Aβ₄₀ with these polymers in varying concentrations were studied via time-dependent measurements of the thioflavin T (ThT) fluorescence. The studies revealed that amyloid fibrillation was accelerated in, accompanied by an extension of the lag phase of Aβ₄₀ fibrillation from 18.3 h in the absence to 19.3 h in the presence of the poly(methoxy di(ethylene glycol)acrylate) (3600 g/mol). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymers for Aqueous Media)

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10895 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polyurethane/Polylactide-Blend Films Doped with Zinc Ions for the Growth and Expansion of Human Olfactory Ensheathing Cells (OECs) and Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Stem Cells (ASCs) for Regenerative Medicine Applications

by Krzysztof Marycz, Monika Marędziak, Jakub Grzesiak, Dariusz Szarek, Anna Lis and Jadwiga Laska

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050175 - 30 Apr 2016

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 7775

Abstract

Polymeric biomaterials based on polyurethane and polylactide blends are promising candidates for regenerative medicine applications as biocompatible, bioresorbable carriers. In current research we showed that 80/20 polyurethane/polylactide blends (PU/PLDL) with confirmed biological properties in vitro may be further improved by the addition of [...] Read more.

Polymeric biomaterials based on polyurethane and polylactide blends are promising candidates for regenerative medicine applications as biocompatible, bioresorbable carriers. In current research we showed that 80/20 polyurethane/polylactide blends (PU/PLDL) with confirmed biological properties in vitro may be further improved by the addition of ZnO nanoparticles for the delivery of bioactive zinc oxide for cells. The PU/PLDL blends were doped with different concentrations of ZnO (0.001%, 0.01%, 0.05%) and undertaken for in vitro biological evaluation using human adipose stromal stem cells (ASCs) and olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs). The addition of 0.001% of ZnO to the biomaterials positively influenced the morphology, proliferation, and phenotype of cells cultured on the scaffolds. Moreover, the analysis of oxidative stress markers revealed that 0.001% of ZnO added to the material decreased the stress level in both cell lines. In addition, the levels of neural-specific genes were upregulated in OECs when cultured on sample 0.001 ZnO, while the apoptosis-related genes were downregulated in OECs and ASCs in the same group. Therefore, we showed that PU/PLDL blends doped with 0.001% of ZnO exert beneficial influence on ASCs and OECs in vitro and they may be considered for future applications in the field of regenerative medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Polymers for Medical Applications)

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4662 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adsorption Profile of Basic Dye onto Novel Fabricated Carboxylated Functionalized Co-Polymer Nanofibers

by Marwa F. Elkady, Mohamed R. El-Aassar and Hassan Shokry Hassan

Polymers 2016, 8(5), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym8050177 - 29 Apr 2016

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 5691

Abstract

Acrylonitrile-Styrene co-polymer was prepared by solution polymerization and fabricated into nanofibers using the electrospinning technique. The nanofiber polarization was enhanced through its surface functionalization with carboxylic acid groups by simple chemical modification. The carboxylic groups’ presence was dedicated using the FT-IR technique. SEM [...] Read more.

Acrylonitrile-Styrene co-polymer was prepared by solution polymerization and fabricated into nanofibers using the electrospinning technique. The nanofiber polarization was enhanced through its surface functionalization with carboxylic acid groups by simple chemical modification. The carboxylic groups’ presence was dedicated using the FT-IR technique. SEM showed that the nanofiber attains a uniform and porous structure. The equilibrium and kinetic behaviors of basic violet 14 dye sorption onto the nanofibers were examined. Both Langmuir and Temkin models are capable of expressing the dye sorption process at equilibrium. The intraparticle diffusion and Boyd kinetic models specified that the intraparticle diffusion step was the main decolorization rate controlling the process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hybrid Polymeric Materials)

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