Register now After registration you will be able to apply for this opportunity online.
This opportunity is not published. No applications will be accepted.
Interface optimization of biphasic membranes for vascular tissue engineering
The aim of this project is to optimize the interface between an elastomeric layer and nanofibrous sheets in order to obtain a hybrid membrane to integrate in artificial heart devices.
Keywords: biomimetic membrane, chemistry of interfaces, artificial heart
The issue concerning a good bonding strength between silicone and fibers will be addressed by coating the surfaces with plasma and interposing a layer made of curable material. Following the functionalization, the surfaces will be characterized by XPS, SEM and FTIR in order to determine the best parameter to enhance attachment. The adhesion strength and biocompatibility will be determined respectively by pull-off tests and viability assays.
The issue concerning a good bonding strength between silicone and fibers will be addressed by coating the surfaces with plasma and interposing a layer made of curable material. Following the functionalization, the surfaces will be characterized by XPS, SEM and FTIR in order to determine the best parameter to enhance attachment. The adhesion strength and biocompatibility will be determined respectively by pull-off tests and viability assays.
- Investigation of the effect of different plasma treatments (oxygen and ammonia) on the coating of the elastomer substrates by SEM, XPS and AFM.
- Rheometry and optimization of the parameters concerning the deposition of a photo-curable interlayer used as bonding agent.
- Electrospinning of polymeric fibers on coated substrates and evaluation of the adhesion strength by pull-off tests.
- Biocompatibility tests using human cells.
- Investigation of the effect of different plasma treatments (oxygen and ammonia) on the coating of the elastomer substrates by SEM, XPS and AFM. - Rheometry and optimization of the parameters concerning the deposition of a photo-curable interlayer used as bonding agent. - Electrospinning of polymeric fibers on coated substrates and evaluation of the adhesion strength by pull-off tests. - Biocompatibility tests using human cells.