Abstract
Chitosan was grafted onto poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (P(3HB)) as in our earlier work by using gamma radiation-induced polymerization reaction. We now provide structural and surface characteristics of the graft copolymer in view of potential applications. The modified P(3HB) was characterized by 1H/solid-state 13C CP-MAS nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, atomic force microscopy, contact angles and scratch resistance determination. Copolymer surfaces resemble those of neat P(3HB) and are unsuitable for membranes. However, a novel composite based on grafting copolymer and polyurethane was developed. It displays good properties for the preparation of 3D-scaffolds with potential uses in tissue engineering.
Acknowledgements
The authors wish to express their gratitude to Adrián Hendrik Oskam, Guillermo Vazquez Sanchez, Guadalupe Mendez, and Blanca M. Huerta Martínez, from CIQA, Mexico, for their technical assistance with drafting of the manuscript and calorimetry. We are also grateful to Alicia del Real and Gerardo Fonseca for their assistance in the morphology studies. The present investigation has been partially supported by DGAPA-CTIC, CONACyT, Mexico City.