Hydrogels based on polyureas applied as biomaterials

Abstract

Polyureas are a class of elastomeric polymers that are very similar to polyurethanes because urea is often formed during production of the urethane. The polyureas are formed from the reaction between polyisocyanates and amine groups. The proportion between the two phases determine the chemical and physical properties of the material. The association characteristics of isocyanates with organic compounds, such as polyethers can lead to obtaining materials with unique properties such as high mechanical strength, transparency and flexibility. In addition, the process used in the manufacture of these materials allows to prepare easily, at low temperatures, monolithic xerogels tuning the shape and varying thicknesses without changing the inherent biocompatibility. The first step of the project, aiming to Understand the possible types of interaction between the two phases (polyether/isocyanate) to obtain a biocompatible and commercial application material. Subsequently, applying these multifunctional materials such as controlled drug delivery systems, antimicrobial and evaluate the polyureas as efficient adsorbents for removal of pollutants. The materials will be physicochemical and morphologically characterized by X-ray diffraction, infrared absorption spectroscopy, elemental analysis, thermal analysis, surface area analysis, scanning and transmission electron microscopies, ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy and small angle X ray scattering. (AU)