Synthesis and Properties of a New Chitosan-Based Shape Memory Polymer and its Composites

摘要

In the present study, a new thermo-responsive shape memory polymer (SMP) based on biopolymers such as chitosan (CH), cellulose acetate (CA), and polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) is fabricated, and the probable structure is elucidated based on proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. CH based biopolymer composites are prepared by incorporating fillers like polyethylene glycol methacrylate grafted hydroxyapatite (g-HAp) and turmeric (TUR) powders. The morphology of g-HAp and TUR particles are investigated by scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical properties of SMP composites are evaluated at room temperature and above the glass transition temperature (Tg). The obtained SMP exhibits a Tg of 75 ℃ and the Tg of the composites did not alter after incorporation of fillers. The developed SMP shows the shape memory effect due to the presence of PVAc. The addition of TUR and g-HAp fillers enhanced the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of SMP. The Young‘s modulus (max. 27 MPa) obtained for the SMP composite in this study is higher than the reported values of 2-4 MPa for CH composite containing bioactive glass nano-particles. The developed CH-SMPs may find application in wound healing and bone implants.