Bagrov D.V., Bonartsev A.P., Bonartseva G.A., Zhuikov V.A., Boskhomdzhiev A.P., Myshkina V.L., Makhina T.K., Zharkova I.I., Yakovlev S.G., Voinova V.V., Ivanov P.V., Bonartseva G.A., Shaitan K.V.
Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Biology, RU
Keywords: atomic force microscopy, poly(3-hydroxybutirate), semicrystalline, spin coating
Poly(3-hydroxybutirate) (PHB) is a bacterial polyester, which shows a high potential as a material for biotechnology and medicine, including drug delivery and production of biodegradable implants. Being a semicrystalline polymer, PHB is able to form various supramolecular structures, such as lamellae and spherulites. The semicrystalline structure and morphology of the polymer strongly influences its biodegradation properties. In the current work the morphology of ultrathin PHB films prepared by spin-coating was studied by atomic-force microscopy (AFM). The coexistence of morphologically different phases with different degree of crystallinity was established. Ultrathin PHB films were prepared by spin-coating from solution in dichloromethane onto mica and examined by AFM. The coexistence of two phases (amorphous and semicrystalline) in ultrathin films of PHB on mica was established. These phases are morphologically different but show similar tendency to dewetting upon heating. The work is supported by Federal Targeted Programmes of RF Ministry of Education and Science, projects # P548, P1351, 14.740.11.1077, 16.740.11.0652.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2012: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites (Volume 1)
Published: June 18, 2012
Pages: 602 - 605
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
Topics: Advanced Materials for Engineering Applications, Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
ISBN: 978-1-4665-6274-5