Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Matthew W. Halloran, Jim A. Nicell, Richard L. Leask, Milan Maric
Summary: This study focused on designing rubber toughening agents using trans-beta-farnesene as a building block to enhance the impact strength of PLA blends. Ternary blends showed significant improvements in impact strength and elongation at break, and their phase morphologies were evaluated using SEM.
ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xiaojie Chen, Ruanquan Zhang, Yixuan Mao, Liling Zhong, Peiyao Lin, Qizhe Deng, Botuo Zheng, Hang Shen, Zhiming Feng, Huagui Zhang
Summary: In this study, a series of dynamically cross-linked polysulfide elastomers were synthesized using inverse vulcanization, and they were blended with PLA to enhance its toughness and achieve good interfacial compatibilization. The composition of the elastomers played a decisive role in determining the toughening efficiency, and an optimized composition (PLA-S(50)O(25)A(25)) was obtained with excellent toughness and antibacterial effects. This study opens up new possibilities for PLA modification with sustainable dynamically-crosslinked elastomers, providing a balance between stiffness, toughness, and antibacterial activity.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Martin Boruvka, Cenek Cermak, Lubos Behalek, Pavel Brdlik
Summary: This study focused on characterizing the properties of nanocomposite systems based on asymmetric poly(L-lactide)/Poly(D-lactide) blends with the addition of nano-hydroxyapatite (HA) and 5 wt.% PDLA loading. The results showed that increasing HA content and blending with 5 wt.% PDLA enhanced tensile modulus, crystallinity, and thermal-resistance, while in-mold annealing further improved these properties by achieving a higher degree of crystallinity. However, higher HA content and in-mold annealing resulted in decreased % elongation values at break and tensile strength, as well as caused embrittlement of the material systems.
Article
Polymer Science
Lidong Feng, Xinchao Bian, Gao Li, Xuesi Chen
Summary: By investigating the thermal properties, morphology, and thermal stability of PLLA/PDLA blends, a new stereoamorphous mesophase (sam-PLA) structure was discovered, and the relationship between different phases in the PLLA/PDLA blends was explored.
Article
Polymer Science
Charles J. McCutcheon, Boran Zhao, Christopher J. Ellison, Frank S. Bates
Summary: Adding PEO-PBO diblock copolymer significantly reduces the crystallization time and increases the ductility of PLLA blends without affecting the modulus. The block copolymer particles facilitate stress-induced cavitation and uniform crazing, leading to a 7-15 fold increase in tensile toughness of the blends.
Article
Thermodynamics
Hechang Shi, Hongda Cheng, Changyu Han, Yanchun Yu, Mengdie Yu, Ye Zhang
Summary: This work investigates the effect of uniaxial stretching on the properties of neat poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and miscible PLLA/poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) blends. The stretching process influences the thermal properties, crystallization behavior, miscibility, crystal structure, and mechanical properties of the materials. With an increased stretching ratio, the chains in PLLA and PLLA/PVAc blends become more oriented and exhibit enhanced crystallization, resulting in changes in thermal properties and improved toughness. The findings provide insight into the effect of stretching on miscible PLLA blends and offer practical implications for their large-scale application.
JOURNAL OF THERMAL ANALYSIS AND CALORIMETRY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Wenjun He, Lin Ye, Phil Coates, Fin Caton-Rose, Xiaowen Zhao
Summary: The addition of poly(lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) segments into poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA)/poly(D-lactic acid) (PDLA) chains resulted in the development of a fully biodegradable and flexible PLLA/D-PLCL block polymer with long-chain branches and a stereocomplex (SC) crystalline structure. The PLLA/D-PLCL films showed increased complex viscosity/storage modulus, lower tan delta values in the terminal region, and strain-hardening behavior compared to neat PLLA. Through biaxial drawing, the uniformity and non-preferred orientation of the PLLA/D-PLCL films were improved. By introducing PDLA, the phase structure transformed from a sea-island structure to a co-continuous network structure, leading to enhanced tensile strength and elongation at break.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Lidong Feng, Xinchao Bian, Gao Li, Xuesi Chen
Summary: The study shows that the compatibility between PLLA and PLDLA-m decreases as the L-lactate unit content in PLDLA-m decreases, impacting the crystallization and compatibility of the blends.
Article
Polymer Science
Mengfan Jing, Xuyang Liu, Like Ma, Fukang Cao, Zihao Wang, Yaming Wang, Chuntai Liu, Changyu Shen
Summary: The effect of fiber surface topography on polymer interfacial crystallization behavior was investigated using polarized optical microscopy. It was found that different surface topographies of fibers lead to different nucleation processes of poly(lactide). The introduction of SiO2 particles increased the nucleation rate and influenced the relationship between Δσ and ln I-0.
Article
Polymer Science
Hideto Tsuji, Kazumasa Iguchi, Yuki Arakawa
Summary: The research studied the effects of different molecular weights of crystalline blocks but similar overall molecular weights on the crystallization behavior, structure, morphology, and thermal properties of PLLA-b-PDLLA/PDLA-b-PDLLA blends. It was found that the incorporated long amorphous PDLLA blocks facilitated unique SC crystallization in the blends with different crystalline block fractions.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Chao Chen, Ying Tian, Fenglong Li, Han Hu, Kai Wang, Zhengyang Kong, Wu Bin Ying, Ruoyu Zhang, Jin Zhu
Summary: By synthesizing the PBFEG50 copolymer to toughen PLA, it is possible to enhance the toughness of PLA while maintaining its mechanical strength, with a notable increase in tensile modulus. Analysis methods such as Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy can be used to determine the interaction and crystallization behavior of PLA/PBFEG50 blends.
Article
Polymer Science
Yong He, Kuiyong Dong, Yadong Guo, Gang Zhao, Shanshan Tang, Xueli Wang, Bomou Ma
Summary: In this study, crosslinked PLA with high crystallinity and high gel content was prepared by UV irradiation and the addition of specific photoinitiators and curing agents. The crosslinked PLA showed improved thermal properties and remained highly crystallizable.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zhanxin Jing, Xiaolan Huang, Xinqi Liu, Mingneng Liao, Zhaoxia Zhang, Yong Li
Summary: In this study, PLLA/PCL multi-block copolymers with different compositions were synthesized and introduced into a sc-PLA matrix to accelerate the stereocomplexation of PLA enantiomers and improve its brittleness. The results showed that the introduction of PLLA/PCL multi-block copolymers promoted the stereocomplexation of PLA enantiomers, but the presence of the PCL block decreased the melting temperature and hindered homogeneous nucleation. The blends exhibited significantly improved elongation at break and slightly reduced tensile strength compared to sc-PLA. The thermal stability and mechanical properties of the blends could be adjusted by controlling the content and composition of PCL/PLLA multi-block copolymers.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Shiling Jia, Ling Zhao, Xiangyu Wang, Yunjing Chen, Hongwei Pan, Lijing Han, Huiliang Zhang, Lisong Dong, Huixuan Zhang
Summary: PLA blends with different toughening agents were prepared, and the addition of GEBMA greatly improved its toughness at low temperature, showing reinforcement and super ductility. The main factors affecting the toughness of the blends were Tg and interfacial bonding.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Mariana Rodriguez Reinoso, Marco Civera, Vito Burgio, Annalisa Chiappone, Oliver Grimaldo Ruiz, Alessandra D'Anna, Carmela Riccio, Ignazio Roppolo, Alberto Frache, Paola Antonaci, Cecilia Surace
Summary: Biocompatible and biodegradable polymers are the future of medical implantable solution manufacturing, but must also meet mechanical requirements. This research focused on the effects of manufacturing methods on the mechanical properties and thermal behavior of a medical-grade copolymer blend, specifically for tendon repair implants.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Dan Trunov, Frantisek Muzika, Anita Kriz, Jiri Stetina, Ivona Sedlarova, Marcela Dendisova, Fatima Hassouna, Miroslav Soos
Summary: The study focuses on synthesizing silica-based macroporous aggregates composed of silica nanoparticles using a template-free method, demonstrating the ability to tailor pore size distribution by varying primary particle size. The prepared aggregates have different pore sizes, porosities, specific surface areas, and functional groups, showing the potential for functionalizing the aggregate surface. The application of the prepared aggregates was demonstrated by immobilizing urease from Canavalia ensiformis, resulting in higher enzyme activity compared to free enzymes.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES A-PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ENGINEERING ASPECTS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Alma Lucia Villela Zumaya, Silvie Rimpelova, Marketa Stejdirova, Pavel Ulbrich, Jarmila Vilcakova, Fatima Hassouna
Summary: In this study, anti-CD133 monoclonal antibody-conjugated PLGA nanocarriers were designed and synthesized for targeted delivery of oxaliplatin and superparamagnetic nanoparticles to colorectal cancer cells. The results showed that non-PEGylated PLGA nanoparticles were more convenient for controlled drug release, while PEGylated PLGA nanoparticles had faster release kinetics. Additionally, the nanoparticles exhibited superparamagnetic behavior without magnetic hysteresis.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Anton Iemtsev, Alzbeta Zemankova, Fatima Hassouna, Alex Mathers, Martin Klajmon, Michaela Slamova, Lenka Malinova, Michal Fulem
Summary: This study focused on enhancing the dissolution properties of low water-soluble crystalline active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) through various methods. Binary and ternary formulations were prepared using ball milling and/or hot-melt extrusion, and extensively characterized. The results showed that ball-milled formulations were amorphous, while ternary formulations produced via hot-melt extrusion contained residual crystals. Dissolution tests revealed improved solubility for ternary systems prepared by hot-melt extrusion compared to pure crystalline APIs. The fully amorphous formulations remained stable without recrystallization during the preservation period.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Muluneh G. Abebe, Gilles Rosolen, Jeremy Odent, Jean-Marie Raquez, Bjorn Maes
Summary: The use of metallic microparticles in thermoregulating fabrics allows for dynamic and passive control of infrared transmission, reducing energy costs for heating and cooling. Through tailored design and numerical simulations, the fabric can maintain wearer comfort in the range of 18-26 degrees Celsius, showing potential for energy savings.
Article
Polymer Science
Alma Lucia Villela Zumaya, Rosica Mincheva, Jean-Marie Raquez, Fatima Hassouna
Summary: This review provides an overview of the recent advances in developing nanoclusters based on polymeric nanoparticles and/or inorganic NPs, and summarizes the design, fabrication, and properties of noble-metal nanoclusters and hybrid nanoclusters in cancer therapy.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jeremy Odent, Nicolas Baleine, Valentin Biard, Yuta Dobashi, Cedric Vancaeyzeele, Giao T. M. Nguyen, John D. W. Madden, Cedric Plesse, Jean-Marie Raquez
Summary: This paper introduces a new self-powered iontronic sensor that utilizes touch-induced ionic charge separation and can be used for object mapping, recognition and localization. By 3D printing stacked discrete compartments with different ion transport properties, the output voltage magnitude and polarity can be programmed. The integrated touch sensor on the fingertip provides tactile feedback to mimic the tactile perception of objects for recognition applications.
ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Electrochemistry
Gabriela Soukupova, Tereza Bautkinova, Petr Mazur, Jarmila Vilcakova, Jan Prokes, Marcela Dendisova, Miloslav Lhotka, Fatima Hassouna
Summary: In this study, flexible, lightweight, and electrically conductive composites based on renewable resources were developed for high performance sustainable energy storage devices. The correlation between the textural properties of the composite electrodes and the resulting properties was established. The composite electrodes exhibited remarkable cycling stability and specific capacitance retention.
ELECTROCHIMICA ACTA
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Tomas Lapka, Jarmila Vilcakova, Dusan Kopecky, Jan Prokes, Marcela Dendisova, Robert Moucka, Michal Sedlacik, Fatima Hassouna
Summary: Combining highly conducting one-dimensional nanostructures of polypyrrole with cellulose nanofibers (CNF) into flexible films with tailored electrical conductivity and mechanical properties presents a promising route towards the development of eco-friendly electromagnetic interference shielding devices.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
M. G. Garzon Altamirano, M. G. Abebe, J. Lejeune, A. Cayla, B. Maes, J. Odent, J. M. Raquez, C. Campagne, E. Devaux
Summary: Efficient thermal management is crucial for maintaining energy balance and thermal comfort. The design of textiles that can regulate the infrared radiation emitted by the human body is appealing. By coating commercial woven fabrics with poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogels embedded with submicron-sized silica particles, the reflection of infrared radiation can be increased from 12% to 24% in the 5-15 μm wavelengths range. Further management of the silica particles allows reaching a reflection capacity of 36%. This research opens opportunities for energy-saving heating solutions in enclosed spaces.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Margherita Burattini, Robrecht Lippens, Nicolas Baleine, Melanie Gerard, Joeri Van Meerssche, Chloe Geeroms, Jeremy Odent, Jean-Marie Raquez, Sandra Van Vlierberghe, Lieven Thorrez
Summary: In this study, Gelatin Methacryloyl (GelMA) is modified with hydrophilic 2-acryloxyethyltrimethylammonium chloride (AETA) and 3-sulfopropyl acrylate potassium (SPA) ionic comonomers to create a piezoionic hydrogel. The modified GelMA exhibits increased ionic conductivity and electrical response to mechanical stress, making it suitable for tissue engineering of skeletal muscles. The viability of murine myoblasts on the piezoionic hydrogels confirms their biocompatibility and the potential for utilizing piezo-effects in tissue engineering.
MACROMOLECULAR BIOSCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Alzbeta Zemankova, Fatima Hassouna, Martin Klajmon, Michal Fulem
Summary: In this work, the authors investigated the solid-liquid equilibrium (SLE) of four binary systems combining two active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) capable of forming co-amorphous systems (CAMs). The experimental results showed that all binary mixtures formed eutectic systems. The study also evaluated the ability of theoretical models to predict the phase diagrams for the investigated API-API binary systems.
Article
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
Hayk Kasparyan, Fatima Hassouna, Jan Prokes, Ivo Krivka, Miloslav Lhotka, Miroslava Trchova, Pavel Sialini, Dusan Kopecky
Summary: This article reports on the use of melamine foam as a free-standing scaffold for electrically conductive fillers in the development of low-pressure sensors. The melamine foam was covered with conducting polymer polypyrrole of nanotubular morphology (PPy-NT) to enhance conductivity and mechanical flexibility. The effects of various components, such as surfactant and fillers, on the electrical and mechanical properties of the composites were studied, and the pressure sensing properties of the melamine composites were assessed.
SENSORS AND ACTUATORS A-PHYSICAL
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Anton Iemtsev, Martin Klajmon, Fatima Hassouna, Michal Fulem
Summary: Prediction of API-polymer compatibility is crucial for drug delivery system design and long-term physical stability estimation. This study investigated the phase behavior of IBU with PLGA and PLA using experimental and computational methods. The phase diagrams constructed based on PC-SAFT EOS modeling demonstrated low solubility and limited miscibility of IBU with all polymers studied. The ability of PC-SAFT EOS to capture the observed trends in phase behavior with respect to copolymer composition and molecular weight was thoroughly investigated and evaluated.
Editorial Material
Environmental Sciences
Stijn Everaert, Greet Schoeters, Karel Claes, Jean-Marie Raquez, Bart Buffel, Tamara Vanhaecke, Jonas Moens, Juha Laitinen, Nicolas Van Larebeke, Lode Godderis
Summary: Firefighters are exposed to various chemicals that may lead to health issues. Wearing nitrile butadiene rubber undergloves is a preventive measure against toxic accumulation, although its safety is questioned.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
M. Garzon Altamirano, M. G. Abebe, N. Hergue, J. Lejeune, A. Cayla, C. Campagne, B. Maes, E. Devaux, J. Odent, J. M. Raquez
Summary: Hydrogel composites with dynamic modulation of infrared radiation in the 5-15 μm range were designed for personalized body thermoregulation. The addition of submicron-sized silica particles within the hydrogels allowed for control of infrared reflection, with higher reflection at smaller particle distances. The composites showed increased infrared reflection when subjected to changes in relative humidity and temperature, demonstrating their potential for thermoregulation.