Abstract
The ability to control nanostructure shape and dimensions presents opportunities to design materials in which their macroscopic properties are dependent upon the nature of the nanoparticle. Although particle morphology has been recognized as a crucial parameter, the exploitation of the potential shape-dependent properties has, to date, been limited. Herein, we demonstrate that nanoparticle shape is a critical consideration in the determination of nanocomposite hydrogel properties. Using translationally relevant calcium-alginate hydrogels, we show that the use of poly(L-lactide)-based nanoparticles with platelet morphology as an adhesive results in a significant enhancement of adhesion over nanoparticle glues comprised of spherical or cylindrical micelles. Furthermore, gel nanocomposites containing platelets showed an enhanced resistance to breaking under strain compared to their spherical and cylindrical counterparts. This study opens the doors to a change in direction in the field of gel nanocomposites, where nanoparticle shape plays an important role in tuning mechanical properties.
Highlights
The ability to control nanostructure shape and dimensions presents opportunities to design materials in which their macroscopic properties are dependent upon the nature of the nanoparticle
Inspired by the significant influence nanoparticle shape has on drug delivery[12], cell–nanoparticle interaction and internalization rate[13,14], and even cell behavior or differentiation of stem cells[15], we hypothesized that the mechanical properties and adhesion between hydrogel materials could be controlled by tuning nanoparticle shape
We seek to exploit the influence of nanoparticle shape on material properties by preparing polymeric nanoparticles using crystallization-driven self-assembly (CDSA), a methodology that allows high levels of control over particle size, morphology, and surface chemistry
Summary
The ability to control nanostructure shape and dimensions presents opportunities to design materials in which their macroscopic properties are dependent upon the nature of the nanoparticle. Beyond enhancing preexistent hydrogel properties, additional features can be exploited using gel NCs, including adhesion to surfaces[21] In this direction, silica[22,23] or polymer-based[24] nanoparticles have been employed as adhesives between hydrogels and biological tissues. We seek to exploit the influence of nanoparticle shape on material properties by preparing polymeric nanoparticles using crystallization-driven self-assembly (CDSA), a methodology that allows high levels of control over particle size, morphology, and surface chemistry. Using translationally relevant calcium-alginate hydrogels, we demonstrate that 2D platelets significantly increase both the adhesion between hydrogel surfaces and the material’s mechanical strength, when blended into the polymeric network, compared to their 0D spherical or 1D cylindrical counterparts
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
