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Published on: March 12, 2014
Nanocomposites based on poly-D,L-lactide and multiwall carbon nanotubes
L P Krul1, A I Volozhyn, D A Belov
1Belarus State University, 14 Leningradskaja Street, 220050 Minsk, Belarus. hmc@bsu.by
Biomolecular Engineering
|August 16, 2006
Summary
This study shows that adding multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) to poly-D,L-lactide enhances its thermal stability. This could lead to slower degradation of medical implants made from these nanocomposites.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Poly-D,L-lactide is a biodegradable polymer often used in medical implants.
- Enhancing the stability and degradation profile of such polymers is crucial for biomedical applications.
- Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) are known for their unique mechanical and thermal properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the modification of poly-D,L-lactide with multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT).
- To evaluate the impact of MWCNT incorporation on the thermal and mechanical properties of poly-D,L-lactide.
- To assess the potential for altered degradation rates of poly-D,L-lactide-MWCNT nanocomposites in biological environments.
Main Methods:
- Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were synthesized using a catalyst-free, high-voltage atmospheric pressure discharge plasma setup.
- Poly-D,L-lactide/MWCNT nanocomposites were prepared via sonication of a polymer solution in chloroform with MWCNT, followed by film casting.
- Scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize MWCNT diameter (12-60 nm).
- Tensile strength and thermomechanical properties of the composite films were analyzed.
Main Results:
- The incorporation of MWCNT, at quantities not exceeding 0.5%, into poly-D,L-lactide was successfully achieved.
- The addition of MWCNT significantly enhanced the polymer's stability against thermal oxidative destruction.
- Nanocomposite films exhibited improved thermomechanical properties compared to pure poly-D,L-lactide.
Conclusions:
- Poly-D,L-lactide can be effectively modified by incorporating multiwall carbon nanotubes.
- The resulting nanocomposites demonstrate improved thermal stability, suggesting enhanced resistance to degradation.
- Implants fabricated from these poly-D,L-lactide/MWCNT nanocomposites are anticipated to exhibit slower in-vivo dispersion rates compared to pure poly-D,L-lactide implants.
