<p> Chitosan is a naturally derived polymer, which represents one of the most technologically important classes of active materials with applications in a variety of industrial and biomedical fields. Polymeric materials can be regarded as promising candidates for next generation devices due to their low energy payback time. These devices can be fabricated by high-throughput processing methodologies, such as spin coating, inkjet printing, gravure and flexographic printing onto flexible substrates. However, the extensive applications of polymeric films are still limited because of disadvantages such as poor electromechanical properties, high brittleness with a low strain at break, and sensitivity to water. For certain critical applications the need for modification of physical, mechanical and electrical properties of the polymer is essential. When blends of polymer films with other materials are used, as is commonly the case, device performance directly depends on the nanoscale morphology and phase separation of the blend components. To prepare nanocomposite thin films with the desired functional properties, both the film composition and microstructure have to be thoroughly characterized and controlled.</p><p> Chitosan reinforced bio-nanocomposite films with varying concentrations of gold nanoparticles were prepared through a solution casting method. Gold nanoparticles (∼ 32 nm diameter) were synthesized <i> via</i> a citrate reduction method from chloroauric acid and incorporated in the prepared Chitosan solution. Uniform distribution of gold nanoparticles was achieved throughout the chitosan matrix and was confirmed by SEM images. Synthesis outcomes and prepared nanocomposites were characterized using TEM, SAED, SEM, EDX, XRD, UV-Vis, particle size analysis, zeta potential and FT-IR for their physical, morphological and structural properties. Nanoscale mechanical properties of the nanocomposite films were characterized at room temperature, human body temperatures and higher temperatures using instrumented indentation techniques. The obtained films were confirmed to be biocompatible by their ability to support the growth and proliferation of human tissue cells <i> in vitro.</i> Statistical analysis on mechanical properties and biocompatibility results, were conducted. Results revealed significant enhancement on both the mechanical properties and cell adherence and proliferation. The results will enhance our understanding of the effect of nanostructures reinforcement on these important functional polymeric thin films for potential biomedical applications.</p>
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:PROQUEST/oai:pqdtoai.proquest.com:3636199 |
| Date | 25 October 2014 |
| Creators | Patel, Nimitt G. |
| Publisher | Clarkson University |
| Source Sets | ProQuest.com |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | thesis |
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