Examining the effect of starch and hydroxyapatite crosslinking on the thermal properties of polyurethane-based biomaterials

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2019Source: Thermochimica ActaAuthor(s): Klaudia Ordon, Monika Szlachta, Piotr Szatkowski, Kinga PielichowskaAbstractNew polyurethane-based materials (PUs) have been fabricated via a two-step bulk polymerization method with starch as a crosslinker, and 1,4-butanediol as a chain extender. Hydroxyapatite (HAp) was used as a bioactive compound. The structure, morphology and thermal properties of the PUs were investigated. The chemical structure of the obtained materials was confirmed by FTIR. The SEM-EDX analysis confirmed the incorporation of starch and HAp into the PU matrix. Thermogravimetric analysis of PUs indicated enhancement of the thermal stability of PU with an increase in the starch and HAp content. Based on DSC, the introduction of starch into the PU matrix, in the amount of 0,5% wt., was found to lead to an increase in the glass transition temperature (Tg) of soft segments and an increase in the value of the specific heat capacity of the soft phase. In addition, it was found that Tg decreases with an increase of the HAp content. In this paper, multi-frequency temperature modulation differential scanning calorimetry was employed to investigate the glass transition region of PU materials. The obtained composite PUs are characterized by promising properties that reveal their potential for future use in surgery as multifunctional bone cement.

Source: Thermochimica Acta - September 21, 2019 Category: Chemistry Source Type: research