Novel chitosan-poly(vinyl acetate) biomaterial suitable for additive manufacturing and bone tissue engineering applications

Abstract

Chitosan, a biocompatible and biodegradable natural polymer, offers great promise as a biomaterial for tissue engineering applications. Chitosan scaffolds have previously been fabricated using additive manufacturing techniques, however, the use of crosslinkers, weak mechanical stability and structural resolution remain problematic. In this study Chitosan-PVAc biopolymer blends were prepared using a non-organic solvent that can prepare a three-dimensional printable biopolymer in less time than conventional methods. Prepared films were characterised using SEM, FTIR and thermogravimetric analysis. Additionally, the swelling properties, biodegradability and printability of the scaffolds were also studied. The fabricated films were biodegradable within a 3-week period and showed controllable swelling properties. Results indicated no toxicity and cells attached onto films. Additionally, hydrogels showed antibacterial activity against S. aureus, S. epidermidis and E.coli, which could potentially prevent implant related infections. Additive manufacturing simulation of PVAc composite 3% chitosan and PVAc composite 4% chitosan were able to produce a layered scaffold without using crosslinkers and therefore confirming printability. Cytocompabability were assessed using a resazurin assay and cell attachment. From these results, we concluded that the printable PVAc composite 3% chitosan and PVAc composite 4% chitosan biopolymer blends meet the requirements of a biomaterial and can potentially be used for biomedical implants.

Novel Trends in Hydrogel Development for Biomedical Applications: A Review

“…Moreover, in vivo experiment results confirm the ability of CTS-based hydrogels to accelerate tissue regeneration to reduce inflammation and facilitate wound healing [ 102 , 103 ]. Current trends in CTS-based hydrogels for biomedical applications focus on the improvement of CTS performance and properties, from cross-linking strategies [ 99 , 100 , 101 , 188 ] to blending [ 189 , 190 , 191 ] and functionalization of CTS structure [ 192 , 193 ].…”

Mechanical and thermal properties of polyvinyl acetate foams reinforced with biopolymers

“…The PVAc can act as a compatibilizer between the chitosan coating and the substrate, promoting better adhesion through intermolecular interactions. 37,38 The study involved the production of PVAc foams reinforced with biopolymers (water-soluble chitosan, zinc borate, and bleached kraft pulp), using freeze-drying technology. The aim of the study examines the impact of these reinforcements on the mechanical and thermal properties of the PVAc foams.…”

“…The PVAc can act as a compatibilizer between the chitosan coating and the substrate, promoting better adhesion through intermolecular interactions. 37,38…”