Authors: Meng, Qinghao; Hu, Jinlian; Zhu, Yong

Source: Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition, Volume 19, Number 11, 2008 , pp. 1437-1454(18)

Publisher: VSP, an imprint of Brill

Abstract:

A series of PCL-based shape memory polyurethanes was synthesized via bulk pre-polymerization. Their thermal, mechanical properties, shape memory properties, softening and hardening processes were investigated by the experimental approach and made comparison with a commercially available orthotic material. The cytotoxicity of the low-temperature thermoplastic polyurethane was tested. The results suggest that the soft segment phase of the shape memory polyurethanes has a melting transition at about 36-46°C, which makes them possible low-temperature thermoplastic materials. The hard segment phase has a two-fold effect on the shape memory polyurethane as a low-temperature thermoplastic orthotic material: increasing tensile mechanical strength at room temperature, which enables it to be used in circumstances where high tensile strength is required; and reducing low-temperature malleability and fixity ratio, which make it difficult to fabricate orthortic devices. To obtain a shape memory polyurethane with excellent low-temperature thermoplastic properties for orthopaedical surgical use, the hard segment content should not be above 22 wt%. At last, a prototype wrist orthosis was easily fabricated at 60°C with hand using a shape memory polyurethane with 16 wt% hard segment content. Cytotoxicity tests indicate that the wrist orthotic material is not cytotoxic.

Keywords: SHAPE MEMORY POLYURETHANE; ORTHOTIC MATERIAL; LOW-THEMPERATURE THERMOPLASTIC

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/156856208786140355

Affiliations: 1: Institute of Textiles and Clothing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, P. R. China

Publication date: 2008-11-01

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• In this Subject: Chemistry (General) ,  Engineering/Technology ,  Materials & Manufacturing
• By this author: Meng, Qinghao ;  Hu, Jinlian ;  Zhu, Yong

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