Paper Title
Nanomaterials Based on Poly (3-Hydroxybutyrate) – Physicochemical, Mechanical and Biological Studies
Abstract
The poly (3-hydroxybutyrate), P3HB, was used to prepare biocompatible composites modified by the nanocrystalline cellulose. The aim of the study was to assess selected thermal, mechanical, and biological properties of the obtained nanocomposites. The crystallinity of nanocomposites and polymeric matrix were investigated using X-ray spectra. The immunosafety of the tested nanocomposites and the absence of, or very low, endotoxin contamination was confirmed by the the Food and Drug Agency Guidance as well as the European Medicines Agency. Some mechanical properties of the investigated materials were also measured and presented. It was estimated that the addition of 1% by mass of nanocrystalline cellulose to P3HB causes the greatest progress in the plasticization of the material, which is characterized by the best processing and utility properties. The processing window of P3HB-1 was extended by approx. 25°C in reference to the unfilled P3HB.
Keywords - Nanocomposites, Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate), Nanocrystalline Cellulose, Biocompatibility