Biohybrid pickering foams: Early stage development of scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

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Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Kemian tekniikan korkeakoulu | Master's thesis

Authors

Date

2023-12-12

Department

Major/Subject

Biomaterials Science

Mcode

CHEM3041

Degree programme

Nordic Master in Polymer Technology (N5PolTech)

Language

en

Pages

60+9

Series

Abstract

The present study focuses on the early stage development of biohybrid Pickering foams composed of partially deacetylated chitin nanofibres (cht), chitosan (chs), and bioactive glass (BAG) for bone tissue engineering applications. The investigation involved the test of formulations containing different concentrations of cht, chs, crosslinkers, and BAG, ultimately leading to the selection of a base formulation with 0.6wt% cht and 0.6wt% chs in combination with 0.6wt% BAG or 0.06wt% BAG. Gas bubbles (N2O and CO2) were added to these formulations through the use of a foam dispenser. Mechanical tests of the developed foams showed promising results, with formulations displaying characteristics properties relatable to bone tissue support. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) imaging of the foams reveals highly porous structures, demonstrating the potential for efficient nutrient diffusion and cell proliferation. Ion leaching from the foams, as determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES), is comparable to existing literature, ensuring biocompatibility. Additionally, immersion of the scaffolds in simulated body fluid results in the growth of hydroxyapatite (HA) on the surface, further affirming their potential for bone tissue engineering. Differential Scanning Calorimetry-Thermogravimetric Analysis (DSC-TGA) provides valuable insights into the thermal stability of different scaffold compositions. Preliminary rheology tests are promising, indicating the potential use of these formulations as inks for 3D printing, facilitating precise scaffold fabrication. In conclusion, this study presents a significant step towards the development of biohybrid Pickering foams as potential scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. The successful incorporation of chitin, chitosan, and bioactive glass, along with the advantageous mechanical, morphological, and biocompatible properties, makes these foams promising candidates for further research and applications in tissue engineering.

Description

Supervisor

Rojas, Orlando

Thesis advisor

Mattos, Bruno

Keywords

chitin nanofibres, chitosan, bioactive glass, pickering foams, bone tissue engineering, scaffolds

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Citation

Permanent link to this item

https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:aalto-202312177319

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[dipl] Kemian tekniikan korkeakoulu / CHEM