Characterization of PLLA scaffolds for biomedical applications. Issue 9 (13th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fiorentino, Simona Maria; Carfì Pavia, Francesco; La Carrubba, Vincenzo; Brucato, Valerio; Abrami, Michela; Farra, Rossella; Turco, Gianluca; Grassi, Gabriele; Grassi, Mario
• Is Part Of: International journal of polymeric materials. Volume 66:Issue 9(2017)
• Page Start: 469
• Page End: 477
• Publication Date: 2017-06-13
• Subjects: Low-field NMR -- phase separation -- PLLA -- pore size distribution -- scaffold; Polymers -- Periodicals; Plastics -- Periodicals; 620.19205
• DOI: 10.1080/00914037.2016.1252344
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0091-4037

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The porosity and pore size distribution of three-dimensional scaffolds have direct implications on their biomedical applications (tissue engineering, drug delivery, and wound dressing). Accordingly, in this paper, a fast, facile, and conservative method relying on low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) for the evaluation of mean pore size and pore size distribution of polymeric scaffolds is reported. The applicability of the technique is demonstrated on poly-L-lactic acid scaffolds fabricated using the thermal induced phase separation. Results obtained through LF-NMR are successfully compared to scanning electron microscope and X-ray microcomputed tomography micrographs. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: