title: PCL-PLLA Semi-IPN Shape Memory Polymers (SMPs): Degradation and Mechanical Properties.
abstract: Thermoresponsive shape memory polymers (SMPs) based on poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) whose shape may be actuated by a transition temperature (Ttrans) have shown utility for a variety of biomedical applications. Important to their utility is the ability to modulate mechanical and degradation properties. Thus, in this work, SMPs are formed as semi-interpenetrating networks (semi-IPNs) comprised of a cross-linked PCL diacrylate (PCL-DA) network and thermoplastic poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA). The semi-IPN uniquely allows for requisite crystallization of both PCL and PLLA. The influence of PLLA (PCL:PLLA wt% ratio) and PCL-DA molecular weight (n) on film properties are investigated. PCL-PLLA semi-IPNs are able to achieve enhanced mechanical properties and accelerated rates of degradation.
authors: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
authors: Lindsay N
authors: LN
authors: Woodard
authors: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
authors: Vanessa M
authors: VM
authors: Page
authors: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
authors: Kevin T
authors: KT
authors: Kmetz
authors: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.|Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
authors: Melissa A
authors: MA
authors: Grunlan
mesh_terms: D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000138:chemical synthesis / Q000737:chemistry*; D011091:Polyesters / Q000737:chemistry*; D013696:Temperature
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D011091:Polyesters; C016240:polycaprolactone; C033616:poly(lactide)
keywords: degradation; poly(l-lactic acid); poly(ε-caprolactone); semi-interpenetrating networks; shape memory polymers