Low-Density Microcellular Polymer Foams: Applications in Biomaterials

摘要

Microcellular polymer foams are of interest as biomaterials for uses such as artificial skin, synthetic vascular replacements, artificial organs, and for use in permeable drug delivery systems. This report describes the use of thermally induced phase separation as a technology by which a variety of polymer foams can be prepared. This process permits control of foam morphology, cell size, and density. The phase separation process results in fully open-celled foam structures. Additives such as small molecules and functionalized polymers have been incorporated into these microcellular foams resulting in polymer surfaces with controlled porosity and chemical modification. Microcellular polyurethane foams, with chemically modified surfaces, have potential application as small diameter vascular replacements. 6 refs., 3 figs. (ERA citation 13:016312)