Synthesis, characterization and in vitrodegradation of 3D-microstructured poly(ε-caprolactone) resins

Abstract

Poly(ε-caprolactone)s of controlled molecular weight and low molecular weight distribution were prepared via anionic ring-opening polymerization using a tetra-functional initiator. The prerequisite for crosslinking was achieved by end-capping of the arms with acrylate groups. Novel biodegradable polyester resins were prepared by crosslinking of the functional polyesters via Michael addition using amino-telechelic poly(tetrahydrofuran). Three-dimensional microstructuring via replica molding shows the potential of this material as substrate for biomedical devices. Thermal and mechanical properties were investigated to characterize the polyester resins, accelerated in vitro degradation studies were carried out in a Sørensen buffer at pH 7.4 and 60 °C for up to 77 days. At different time intervals, the mass loss of the resins and the pH values of the buffer were determined, degradation products were investigated by means of NMR, SEC and ESI-MS and morphology of the degraded resins was checked via scanning electron microscopy. Compared to linear poly(ε-caprolactone) the degradation rate of all resins is higher, showing a mass loss of 50% within 77 days.