Characterization and in vitro Biocompatibility of Binary Mixtures of Chitosan and Polyurethanes Synthesized from Chemically Modified Castor Oil, as Materials for Medical Use

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the incorporation of chitosan into polyurethane matrices synthesized from chemically modified castor (Ricinus communis) oil by transesterification with pentaerythritol. An additional aim of this study was to determine the degree of acceptance as a biomaterial (obtained from renewable sources), based on the analysis of its mechanical properties (stress/rupture strain), hydrophilic character (contact angle), morphology (SEM) and in vitro compatibility of polyurethanes when in contact with mouse fibroblast L929 cells. No significant changes in mechanical properties were observed with the addition of chitosan to polyurethanes synthesized from chemically modified castor oil. All polyurethane formulas showed morphological changes with increased chitosan concentration. As chitosan/polyurethane binary mixtures do not present a cytotoxicity risk for L929 mouse fibroblasts and possess similar mechanical properties to soft and cardiovascular tissues, their use as a biomedical material is suggested.