Biodegradable poly(glycerol sebacate)/poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)-TiO 2 nanocomposites: fabrication and characterisation

Abstract

Novel Nanocomposite films containing TiO₂ nanoparticles incorporated in blend matrices of biocompatible and bioresorbable polymers, namely poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) P(3HB), were developed. The samples were fabricated via a sequential step of solvent casting followed by cross-linking. PGS/P(3HB) blends (controls) were fabricated in two different ratios, i.e. 7∶1 and 8∶1. Varying amounts of TiO₂ nanoparticles (1 and 2 vol.-) were incorporated into the matrices. SEM studies revealed that the TiO₂ particles were distributed both within the matrix and on the surface of the films thus imparting surface nanotopography and increasing the surface roughness. These microstructural features combined with the cumulative effect of blending of the two polymeric systems influenced the wettability, chemical and mechanical properties of the films. In vitro degradation of the fabricated matrices in PBS medium over a 30 day period confirmed that the composites undergo weight loss and mechanical, chemical and surface topography changes. The nanocomposites constitute model biodegradable organic–inorganic systems suitable for tissue engineering applications.