Hierarchical chitinous matrices byssus-inspired with mechanical properties tunable by Fe(III) and oxidation. (1st January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Montroni, Devis; Palanca, Marco; Morellato, Kavin; Fermani, Simona; Cristofolini, Luca; Falini, Giuseppe
• Is Part Of: Carbohydrate polymers. Volume 251(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-01-01
• Subjects: Chitin -- Catechols -- Metal ions -- Hierarchical structures -- Bioinspired; Polysaccharides -- Periodicals; Polysaccharides -- Periodicals; Polysaccharides -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 547.78
• DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2020.116984
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0144-8617

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: A natural β-chitin matrix was functionalized with catechols, a functional group of the byssus. The functionalized β-chitin matrices preserved their native hierarchical structural organization. Their Young modulus increased reversibly in the presence of iron (III), as in the byssus. The functionalized β-chitin matrices increased their Young's modulus and max stress upon oxidation. Abstract: In this study the multi-scale hierarchical structure of the β-chitin matrix from squid pen of Loligo vulgaris was used as substrate to synthesize new bio-inspired materials. Aiming to mimic the byssus peculiar mechanical properties, we chemically functionalized the β-chitin matrix with catechols, one of the main functional groups of the byssus. The obtained matrix preserved its multi-scale structural organization and was able to chelate reversibly Fe(III). Thus, it behaved as the byssus, acting as a metal cross-linkable matrix that upon metalation increased its Young's modulus, E (>10 times). The functionalized matrix was also cross-linked by oxidation provoking an increase of the E (>10 times) and first failure stress (>5 times). The oxidation of the functionalized matrix followed by metalation slightly increased the material mechanical properties. In conclusion, we added specific bio-functionalities in a natural matrix tuning its mechanical properties without altering its multi-scale organization.