POLY 52 |
| PolyHIPE are crosslinked, highly porous polymers synthesized within high internal phase emulsions (HIPE). PolyHIPE have an unusual fully interconnected, open pore structure, with low densities, high permeabilities, large surface areas, and the ability to absorb large quantities of liquid through capillary action. The objectives of this research were to synthesize and characterize novel polyHIPE nanocomposites and biomaterials. The molecular structures, porous morphologies, and mechanical properties were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, high resolution electron microscopy, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, and static compression. Organic – inorganic hybrids and nanocomposites were synthesized using various strategies: blending, copolymerization, and in-situ generation. The hybrid and nanocomposite polyHIPE exhibited significant enhancements in mechanical properties and thermal stability. PolyHIPE containing biodegradable polymers were synthesized using several different approaches including the formation of semi interpenetrating polymer networks (s-IPN) and copolymerization with macromonomers. Mouse skeletal muscle cells successfully attached to polyHIPE surfaces and spontaneous differentiation was observed. |
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Synthetic and Biological Macromolecules for Emerging Nanotechnologies
1:30 PM-5:30 PM, Sunday, August 19, 2007 Westin Boston Waterfront -- Grand Ballroom A, Oral
Division of Polymer Chemistry |