Highly Ordered MWNT-Based Matrixes:  Topography at the Nanoscale Conceived for Tissue Engineering

Abstract

A method based on the conventional lithographic technique combined with the layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly process is applied to the construction of free-standing micro- and nanostructured matrixes. The method enables controlled shaping and considerable chemical and mechanical stability of the self-assembled monolayers, allowing for high reproducibility in manufacturing. The matrixes are characterized by controlled geometry, surface topography, and chemical composition. The complete architecture is made up of successive layers of intercrossed carbon nanotubes that self-assemble into orderly structures. In particular, the present method aims to create architectures and topographies that mimic those occurring naturally (native tissue structures). In addition, nanoindentation and nanoscratch techniques were used to evaluate the mechanical properties of the carbon nanotube-based matrixes.

Morphology of fibroblasts grown on substrates formed by dielectrophoretically aligned carbon nanotubes

“…Patterns on a substrate to create macromolecular structures with CNTs are present in the forms of patterned spots for CNT deposition (Gabay et al 2005) and organized polystyrene beads coated with layers of CNT (Firkowska et al 2006); however, limited information is available in the literature on organized CNTs themselves as a template for tissue engineering. Vertically grown multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) on the surface of a silicon substrate can be functionalized in a way to create a 3D network of cavities that favor cell attachment and growth (Correa-Duarte et al 2004).…”

Nanostructured bone-like scaffolds for restoration of trabecular bone remodeling capability

“…The biocompatibility of the nanotube substrates were studied very widely. This problem was also the subject of the research in the team of Prof. Giersig [9]. The obtained results indicate excellent cells responding to the micro-and nanotopographical cues present on the nanostructured surface.…”

“…For the numerical simulation, the linear elastic material model was used, where the Young's modulus E = 4 GPa and Poisson's ratio ν = 0.3 were assumed. Such a simplification is allowed because of size of the modeled structures and is in agreement with the experiment [9]. For the mechanical tests, two load cases were chosen -shear and compression of the structure, as a representation of possible loads in the multiwalled carbon nanotubes matrices.…”

“…The method used here is called the layer-bylayer assembly process [8,9]. Briefly, latex micro particles with a diameter of 1.71 µm were first slowly applied on the water surface and subsequently self-assembled into a hexagonally closed pack monolayer.…”

Effective use of flexible low-dimensional colloidal particles and colloidal crystals for the control of hierarchically porous materials

“…Such a method is also applicable for multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNT). 82) To provide hydrophilic surfaces, the author and co-workers focused on the use of imogolite, a naturally occurring clay mineral nanotube whose inner diameter is ca. 1 nm and the outer diameter is ca 2 nm (Fig.…”