RADIOPAQUE FILLER ENHANCES NANOCOMPOSITE CATHETER SHAFT PERFORMANCE

摘要

Nylon 12 and polyether block amide nanocomposites are being used to stiffen catheter shafts. Montmorillonitc clay is the filler of choice to make the nanocomposite. Typically the construction is a dual layer where one layer is the nanocomposite and the second layer is a radiopaque layer. We are evaluating the possibility of combining radiopaque properties along with the nano fillers to enhance strength as well be visible under fluoroscopy. Our study is also aimed at looking at the effect of particle shape of the radiopaque filler on the final properties of the material. We want to evaluate if synergy exists between the nano particles and radiopaque fillers to further enhance the physical properties of the material.