PCL–PLLA Semi‐IPN Shape Memory Polymers (SMPs): Degradation and Mechanical Properties. Issue 23 (24th October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Woodard, Lindsay N.; Page, Vanessa M.; Kmetz, Kevin T.; Grunlan, Melissa A.
• Other Names: Lendlein Andreas guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: Macromolecular rapid communications. Volume 37:Issue 23(2016)
• Page Start: 1972
• Page End: 1977
• Publication Date: 2016-10-24
• Subjects: degradation -- poly(ε‐caprolactone) -- poly(l‐lactic acid) -- semi‐interpenetrating networks -- shape memory polymers; Macromolecules -- Periodicals; Polymers -- Periodicals; Chemistry -- Periodicals; 547.705
• DOI: 10.1002/marc.201600414
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1022-1336

Abstract

Abstract : Thermoresponsive shape memory polymers (SMPs) based on poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) whose shape may be actuated by a transition temperature ( T trans ) have shown utility for a variety of biomedical applications. Important to their utility is the ability to modulate mechanical and degradation properties. Thus, in this work, SMPs are formed as semi‐interpenetrating networks (semi‐IPNs) comprised of a cross‐linked PCL diacrylate (PCL‐DA) network and thermoplastic poly(l ‐lactic acid) (PLLA). The semi‐IPN uniquely allows for requisite crystallization of both PCL and PLLA. The influence of PLLA (PCL:PLLA wt% ratio) and PCL‐DA molecular weight ( n ) on film properties are investigated. PCL–PLLA semi‐IPNs are able to achieve enhanced mechanical properties and accelerated rates of degradation. Abstract : Semi‐interpenetrating networks of cross‐linked poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐diacrylate (PCL‐DA) with thermoplastic poly(l‐lactic acid) exhibiting shape memory properties have the ability to expand upon the properties of PCL‐DA networks alone toward shape memory polymers (SMPs) with robust mechanical properties and accelerated degradation rates. The SMP semi‐interpenetrating network films studied herein are expected to have enhanced utility for a variety of biomedical applications.