Biosafe, Eco‐Friendly Levan Polysaccharide toward Transient Electronics. Issue 32 (4th July 2018) - Kwon, Ki Yoon
Abstract: New options in the material context of transient electronics are essential to create or expand potential applications and to progress in the face of technological challenges. A soft, transparent, and cost‐effective polymer of levan polysaccharide that is capable of complete, programmable dissolution is described when immersed in water and implanted in an animal model. The results include chemical analysis, the kinetics of hydrolysis, and adjustable dissolution rates of levan, and a simple theoretical model of reactive diffusion governed by temperature. In vivo experiments of the levan represent nontoxicity and biocompatibility without any adverse reactions. On‐demand, selective control of dissolution behaviors with an animal model demonstrates an effective triggering strategy to program the system's lifetime, providing the possibility of potential applications in envisioned areas such as bioresorbable electronic implants and drug release systems. Abstract : A biologically benign, water‐soluble polymer of levan polysaccharide integrated with biodegradable electronics for temporary medical implants is presented in this report. Results on basic structures, dissolution studies, and mechanics modeling highlight the capabilities to program various modes of transience. Experiments with an animal model illustrate an on‐demand triggering approach for transient behaviors and provide reliable evidence of non‐toxicity on materials.