3D Printing of Aqueous Two-Phase Systems with Linear and Bottlebrush Polyelectrolytes

Area of Science:

• Polymer Science
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) are formed by the electrostatic interaction between oppositely charged polymers.
• Bottlebrush polymers offer unique structural properties due to their dense side chains, influencing complex formation and macroscopic behavior.
• Controlling PEC properties is crucial for developing advanced functional materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize core-shell-like PECs using anionic bottlebrush polymers and cationic linear polymers.
• To investigate the influence of pH, polymer architecture, and salt concentration on PEC phase separation and salt resistance.
• To develop 3D printable PEC-based constructs for potential applications in controlled delivery.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of anionic bottlebrush polymers (poly(acrylic acid) side chains) and cationic linear poly(allylamine hydrochloride).
• Formation and characterization of core-shell-like PECs.
• All-liquid 3D printing of PECs to create flow-through tubular constructs.
• Assessment of selective transport across the PEC membranes.

Main Results:

• Core-shell-like PECs were successfully formed and exhibited tunable phase separation and salt resistance.
• The conformation of the bottlebrush polymers significantly impacted the PEC properties.
• 3D printed tubular constructs demonstrated selective transport capabilities through their PEC walls.

Conclusions:

• The study demonstrates effective control over PEC properties by tuning polymer architecture and environmental conditions.
• Combining bottlebrush polymer complexation with 3D printing yields promising tubular constructs for flow-through systems.
• These constructs represent a novel platform for advanced delivery applications.