Effect of PEG content on the properties of biodegradable amphiphilic multiblock poly(ε-caprolactone urethane)s

Abstract

We have recently developed a new group of cationic biodegradable multiblock poly(ε-caprolactone urethane)s bearing gemini quaternary ammonium pendant groups and methoxyl-poly(ethylene glycol) (m-PEG) end chains. In this study, to endow polyurethane with attractive amphiphilicity and good biocompatibility, and to achieve a fundamental understanding on the structure-property relationship of these polyurethanes in favor of designing and preparing new generation of polyurethanes with more attractive amphiphilicity and better biocompatibility, varying amounts of m-PEG were introduced into the polyurethane chains and the effect of PEG content on the polymer bulk properties was investigated in detail by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), water contact angle (WCA) measurements, polarizing light microscopy (PLM) and in vitrodegradation studies. It was found that the incorporation of PEG has direct effects on the phase behaviors, thermal properties, hydrophilicity and degradable ability of poly(ε-caprolactone urethane)s. Moreover, these polyurethanes exhibit good cytocompatibility, which are promising biodegradable carrier materials in drug delivery and interesting candidates for further study.