Description
Three-dimensional (3D) structures produced from the combination of nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) and alginate (Alg) are suitable materials for various applications, including cell culturing. 1,2 The mechanical properties and dimensional stability of such structures were improved by cross-linking with salts (CaCl2, Cu(NO3)2, FeCl3 ). 3 In this study, we prepared two types of inks for 3D printing: NFC/Alg/CaCO3 (Ink 1) or NFC/Alg/CaCO3/photoacid generator (Ink 2). The 3D printed structures of Ink 1 and Ink 2 were ionically cross-linked with gluconolactone and UV-light. Besides the rheological properties (viscose and elastic moduli) of the inks, the mechanical properties and dimensional stability of the printed structures were investigated as a function of concentration of the gluconolactone and UV irradiation intensity and exposure time. It is suggested that the acidic proton generated by gluconolactone or PAG, when dissolved in water or exposed to UV irradiation, allows for the dissociation of CaCO3, and consequently the release of Ca2+. These ions form complexes with carboxyl functional groups of Alg and NFC. Scaffold materials with different microstructures and tuneable properties obtained by this water-based cross-linking approach could be suitable for cell growth and bio catalysis.
| Period | 1 Sept 2021 |
|---|---|
| Event title | Polymer Meeting 14: PM14 |
| Event type | Other |
| Location | Graz, AustriaShow on map |
| Degree of Recognition | International |
Fields of Expertise
- Advanced Materials Science