UV-curable pressure sensitive adhesive films: effects of biocompatible plasticizers on mechanical and adhesion properties

Abstract

We developed a new approach to fabricate pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) hydrogel films for dermatological applications. These hydrogel films were fabricated using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) with/without propylene glycol (PG) via photo-polymerization. Hydrogel films with a thickness ranging from 130 to 1190 μm were obtained. The surface morphology and drug distribution within the films were found to be uniform. The effects of different factors (polymeric composition, i.e., PEG/PG presence and film thickness) on the functional properties (i.e., rheological and mechanical properties, adhesion performance and drug distribution) of the films were investigated. The addition of plasticizers, namely PEG and PG, resulted in a simultaneous increase in elasticity and adhesiveness of these hydrogels, via the formation of hydrogen bonds, which has a direct correlation with their adhesion properties. The new approach is potentially useful for industrial applications, due to the simple procedure, precise control over film thickness, minimal usage of solvents and adjustable mechanical, rheological and adhesive properties.