Synthesis, Characterization and Biocompatibility of Elastomeric Poly(L-co-D,L-lactic acid-co-Caprolactone)urethane for Biomedical Applications

Abstract

A versatile nature of polyurethanes allows for the modification of thermal, mechanical, and chemical properties, making them promising candidates for medical applications. This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and biocompatibility evaluation of a novel poly (L-co-D,L-co-lactic acid-co-Caprolactone)urethane (PLDLA-PCL-PU) material derived from L-lactide, D,L-lactide, polycaprolactone-diol (PCL-diol) and 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI). This research performs a meticulous two-stage synthesis process, ultimately leading to the formation of PLDLA-PCL-PU through polymerization of the prepolymer (PP) and HDI. The confirmation of successful synthesis and the characterization of PLDLA-PCL-PU was done by FTIR-ATR, and 1H NMR. As evidenced by XRD, the amorphous nature of PLDLA reduces the degree of crystallinity in PLDLA-PCL-PU. Thermal decompositions, as well as the associated thermal events, were investigated using TGA and DSC. The biocompatibility of the material was evaluated using human mesenchymal stem cells. These assays reveal a notable enhancement in cell metabolic activity and proliferation when in contact with polyurethane membranes. By combining the properties of polyurethanes with the custom design of PLDLA-PCL-PU, this research strives to contribute with the advancement of biomaterials that promote tissue regeneration.

Keywords

• Polyurethane
• Polycaprolactone
• PLDLA
• Biocompatibility
• Biomaterials