Renewable Photo-Cross-Linkable Polyester-Based Biomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Cytocompatibility...

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomaterials Science
• Sustainable Materials

Background:

• Development of sustainable and functional polymers is crucial for reducing reliance on petrochemicals.
• Biobased monomers offer a renewable alternative for polymer synthesis.
• Photo-cross-linkable materials are desirable for controlled fabrication and application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize photo-cross-linkable unsaturated polyesters (UPs) from biobased itaconic acid and 1,4-butanediol.
• To investigate the influence of synthesis and cross-linking parameters on material properties.
• To evaluate the potential of these UPs as biomaterials.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of unsaturated polyesters (UPs) using biobased monomers.
• Characterization of UPs including thermal analysis and mechanical testing.
• Photo-cross-linking of UPs via UV irradiation.
• In vitro hydrolytic degradation studies in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS).
• Cytocompatibility assessment using human dermal fibroblasts.

Main Results:

• Homogeneous, transparent films were obtained after UV exposure.
• High gel content was achieved, influenced by reaction temperature.
• Materials exhibited similar thermal behaviors.
• In vitro degradation confirmed biodegradability in PBS at 37 °C.
• Positive cytocompatibility with human dermal fibroblasts was demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• Biobased unsaturated polyesters can be effectively synthesized and photo-cross-linked.
• The developed materials exhibit desirable properties for biomaterial applications, including biodegradability and cytocompatibility.
• This work contributes to the development of sustainable polymers from renewable resources.