Can We Structure Biomaterials to Spray Well Whilst Maintaining Functionality?

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Rheology
• Colloid Science

Background:

• Structured fluid biomaterials (gels, creams, emulsions, suspensions) are vital in medicine as controlled release vehicles.
• Colloidal forces create microstructures, yielding properties like yield stress and viscoelasticity, crucial for therapeutic retention and protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the physical basis and mathematical models of structured fluid biomaterials.
• To analyze the disruptive forces during spraying.
• To identify challenges and opportunities for designing sprayable biomaterials.

Main Methods:

• Exploration of material properties of structured fluid biomaterials.
• Analysis of the physics and mathematical models governing spraying processes.
• Review of existing literature on biomaterial spraying.

Main Results:

• Cohesive forces in biomaterials can conflict with disruptive forces during spraying.
• Spray processes involve multiscale forces that break down bulk fluids.
• Past research on spraying overlooked complex colloidal biomaterials.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the interplay between biomaterial properties and spraying forces is key.
• Rational design is needed to overcome challenges in spray application of structured biomaterials.
• Opportunities exist for developing advanced sprayable therapeutic delivery systems.