Structural characterization of multicomponent biodegradable polymeric systems by synchrotron X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy

Abstract

Absorbable polyesters and composites are one of the main platforms of topical treatment of wounds, which are being developed in the research project entitled "Topical and absorbable biomaterials for the local nitric oxide release". This project concerns the development of novel biomedical technologies for tissue engineering and controlled drug delivery. In this context, a full understanding of the complex morphology and structure of these multicomponent system is key, since it enables tailoring device structure. In this sense, the aim of the cooperation proposed herein is to investigate phase segregation and morphology of multicomponent biocompatible polymeric systems through the combination of Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Synchrotron X-ray small and wide angle scattering techniques (SAXS/WAXS), which are complementing scientific methods. Advanced TEM/SAXS correlation is fundamental to achieve quantitative information and reliable models on the structural aspects of complex polymeric systems on the submicron scale; however, it is still rare. Both principal investigators have been successful in establishing and demonstrating the use of these advanced techniques and therefore present distinctive abilities to couple transmission electron microscopy and small angle scattering techniques to investigate the complex hierarchical structure of multicomponent soft materials and nanocomposites of interest to the ongoing FAPESP research project. (AU)