Degradation of ethylene glycol and polyethylene glycols by methanogenic consortia.

PubMed Central

Dwyer, D F; Tiedje, J M

1983-01-01

Methanogenic enrichments capable of degrading polyethylene glycol and ethylene glycol were obtained from sewage sludge. Ethanol, acetate, methane, and (in the case of polyethylene glycols) ethylene glycol were detected as products. The sequence of product formation suggested that the ethylene oxide unit [HO-(CH2-CH2-O-)xH] was dismutated to acetate and ethanol; ethanol was subsequently oxidized to acetate by a syntrophic association that produced methane. The rates of degradation for ethylene, diethylene, and polyethylene glycol with molecular weights of 400, 1,000, and 20,000, respectively, were inversely related to the number of ethylene oxide monomers per molecule and ranged from 0.84 to 0.13 mM ethylene oxide units degraded per h. The enrichments were shown to best metabolize glycols close to the molecular weight of the substrate on which they were enriched. The anaerobic degradation of polyethylene glycol (molecular weight, 20,000) may be important in the light of the general resistance of polyethylene glycols to aerobic degradation. PMID:6614903

BPS States, Crystals, and Matrices

DOE PAGES

Sułkowski, Piotr

2011-01-01

We review free fermion, melting crystal, and matrix model representations of wall-crossing phenomena on local, toric Calabi-Yau manifolds. We consider both unrefined and refined BPS counting of closed BPS states involving D2- and D0-branes bound to a D6-brane, as well as open BPS states involving open D2-branes ending on an additional D4-brane. Appropriate limit of these constructions provides, among the others, matrix model representation of refined and unrefined topological string amplitudes.

No difference in in vivo polyethylene wear particles between oxidized zirconium and cobalt-chromium femoral component in total knee arthroplasty.

PubMed

Minoda, Yukihide; Hata, Kanako; Iwaki, Hiroyoshi; Ikebuchi, Mitsuhiko; Hashimoto, Yusuke; Inori, Fumiaki; Nakamura, Hiroaki

2014-03-01

Polyethylene wear particle generation is one of the most important factors affecting mid- to long-term results of total knee arthroplasties. Oxidized zirconium was introduced as a material for femoral components to reduce polyethylene wear generation. However, an in vivo advantage of oxidized zirconium on polyethylene wear particle generation is still controversial. The purpose of this study was to compare in vivo polyethylene wear particles between oxidized zirconium total knee prosthesis and conventional cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) total knee prosthesis. Synovial fluid was obtained from the knees of 6 patients with oxidized zirconium total knee prosthesis and from 6 patients with conventional cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) total knee prosthesis 12 months after the operation. Polyethylene particles were isolated and examined using a scanning electron microscope and image analyser. Total number of particles in each knee was 3.3 ± 1.3 × 10(7) in the case of oxidized zirconium (mean ± SD) and 3.4 ± 1.2 × 10(7) in that of Co-Cr (n.s.). The particle size (equivalent circle diameter) was 0.8 ± 0.3 μm in the case of oxidized zirconium and 0.6 ± 0.1 μm in that of Co-Cr (n.s.). The particle shape (aspect ratio) was 1.4 ± 0.0 in the case of oxidized zirconium and 1.4 ± 0.0 in that of metal Co-Cr (n.s). Although newly introduced oxidized zirconium femoral component did not reduce the in vivo polyethylene wear particles in early clinical stage, there was no adverse effect of newly introduced material. At this moment, there is no need to abandon oxidized zirconium femoral component. However, further follow-up of polyethylene wear particle generation should be performed to confirm the advantage of the oxidized zirconium femoral component. Therapeutic study, Level III.

Formyl-ended heterobifunctional poly(ethylene oxide): synthesis of poly(ethylene oxide) with a formyl group at one end and a hydroxyl group at the other end.

PubMed

Nagasaki, Y; Kutsuna, T; Iijima, M; Kato, M; Kataoka, K; Kitano, S; Kadoma, Y

1995-01-01

Well-defined poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) with a formyl group at one end and a hydroxyl group at the other terminus was synthesized by the anionic ring opening polymerization of ethylene oxide (EO) with a new organometallic initiator possessing an acetal moiety, potassium 3,3-diethoxypropyl alkoxide. Hydrolysis of the acetal moiety produced a formyl group-terminated heterobifunctional PEO with a hydroxyl group at the other end.

Oxide ceramic femoral heads contribute to the oxidation of polyethylene liners in artificial hip joints.

PubMed

Pezzotti, Giuseppe; Zhu, Wenliang; Sugano, Nobuhiko; Marin, Elia; Yamamoto, Kengo; Nishiike, Naomichi; Hori, Tsubasa; Rondinella, Alfredo; McEntire, Bryan J; Bock, Ryan; Sonny Bal, B

2018-06-01

Experimental evidence demonstrates that a loss of stoichiometry at the surface of oxide bioceramic femoral heads enhances the oxidation rate of polyethylene acetabular liners in artificial hip joints. Contradicting the common notion that ceramics are bioinert, three independent experiments confirmed substantial chemical interactions between the ceramic femoral heads and their polyethylene counterparts. The experiments reported herein included hydrothermal tests, frictional tests, and hip-simulator experiments. It was discovered that oxide and non-oxide femoral heads differently affected the oxidation processes at the surface of the polyethylene liners, all other testing parameters being equal. Analytical data from X-ray photoelectron (XPS), cathodoluminescence (CL), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), and Raman spectroscopies unequivocally and consistently showed that the oxidation rate of polyethylene liners was greater when coupled with oxide as opposed to non-oxide ceramic heads. XPS analyses of O-Al-O bond fractions at the surface of a zirconia-toughened alumina (ZTA) short-term (20 months in vivo) femoral heads retrieval showed a ~50% reduction in favor of oxygen vacancy O-Al-V O and hydroxylated Al-O-H bonds. Off-stoichiometry drifts were confirmed in vitro under both static and dynamic conditions. They triggered oxidation and tangibly affected an advanced highly cross-linked sequentially irradiated and annealed ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) liner (increase in oxidation index up to ΔOI~1.2 after 5 × 10 5 cycles under dynamic swing conditions). Second-generation UHMWPE liners infused with vitamin E were also affected by the free flow of oxygen from the oxide femoral heads, although to a lesser extent. The fundamental findings of this study, which were also confirmed on retrievals, call for revised standards in material design and testing. Adopting these new criteria will provide an improved understanding of the importance of off-stoichiometry at the head/liner interface and may lead to significant extensions in artificial joint lifetimes. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Raman analysis of polyethylene glycols and polyethylene oxides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sagitova, E. A.; Prokhorov, K. A.; Nikolaeva, G. Yu; Baimova, A. V.; Pashinin, P. P.; Yarysheva, A. Yu; Mendeleev, D. I.

2018-04-01

We present Raman study of commercial liquids and powders of polyethylene glycols and polyethylene oxides with the average molecular weight from 400 Da to 10000 kDa. The most significant spectral changes were observed for the range of the molecular weights, where the liquid/semisolid transition has occurred. For the powders we revealed increase in the content of the molecules in the helical conformation and in the content of the monoclinic crystalline phase with growth of the molecular weight.

Oxidation-Resistant Coating For Bipolar Lead/Acid Battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bolstad, James J.

1993-01-01

Cathode side of bipolar substrate coated with nonoxidizable conductive layer. Coating prepared as water slurry of aqueous dispersion of polyethylene copolymer plus such conductive fillers as tin oxide, titanium, tantalum, or tungsten oxide. Applied easily to substrate of polyethylene carbon plastic. As slurry dries, conductive, oxidation-resistant coating forms on positive side of substrate.

Effect of radiation, heat, and aging on in vitro wear resistance of polyethylene.

PubMed

Muratoglu, Orhun K; Merrill, Edward W; Bragdon, Charles R; O'Connor, Daniel; Hoeffel, Daniel; Burroughs, Brian; Jasty, Murali; Harris, William H

2003-12-01

Radiation cross-linking increases the wear resistance of polyethylene used in total hip replacement. Radiation also generates residual free radicals, which are detrimental to long-term properties of polyethylene. Two approaches are used to stabilize the residual free radicals and terminally sterilize the components. One is postirradiation annealing with gas sterilization and the other is postirradiation melting with gamma sterilization in nitrogen. The hypothesis of the current study is that postirradiation annealing followed by gamma sterilization in nitrogen will result in more free radicals in polyethylene than gamma sterilization either in air or in nitrogen alone. To test this hypothesis, concentration of residual free radicals was quantified in polyethylene that was annealed and gamma sterilized in nitrogen and control polyethylenes gamma sterilized in air versus in nitrogen. Three crosslinked polyethylenes that were melted and gas sterilized also were included in the study. The effects of residual free radicals were studied by accelerated aging. Oxidation levels and weight loss in bidirectional pin-on-disk tests were determined before and after aging. Polyethylene that was subjected to postirradiation annealing and gamma sterilization resulted in 58% more residual free radicals than control polyethylenes. Weight loss of the annealed polyethylene increased by 16-fold on accelerated aging and had three times higher oxidation levels than that measured in control polyethylenes after aging. In contrast, polyethylenes that were stabilized with postirradiation melting and terminally gas sterilized showed no detectable residual free radicals. Accelerated aging did not affect the weight loss and oxidation levels of melted polyethylenes.

Biodegradable materials containing recycled polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Podzorova, M. V.; Tertyshnaya, Yu V.; Popov, A. A.

2018-04-01

The work is devoted to study the effects of different environmental factors such as water, oxygen and, light composition based on polylactide and polyethylene of low density with the addition of oxidized polyethylene, as an analog of recycled materials. Established that in the composition polylactide – polyethylene at the first stage the significant impact of moisture and UV light. The influence of UV radiation on polylactide destruction was proved by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). It is found that polylactic acid is oxidized slower than polyethylene.

Weight of Polyethylene Wear Particles is Similar in TKAs with Oxidized Zirconium and Cobalt-chrome Prostheses

PubMed Central

Kim, Jun-Shik; Huh, Wansoo; Lee, Kwang-Hoon

2009-01-01

Background The greater lubricity and resistance to scratching of oxidized zirconium femoral components are expected to result in less polyethylene wear than cobalt-chrome femoral components. Questions/purposes We examined polyethylene wear particles in synovial fluid and compared the weight, size (equivalent circle diameter), and shape (aspect ratio) of polyethylene wear particles in knees with an oxidized zirconium femoral component with those in knees with a cobalt-chrome femoral component. Patients and Methods One hundred patients received an oxidized zirconium femoral component in one knee and a cobalt-chrome femoral component in the other. There were 73 women and 27 men with a mean age of 55.6 years (range, 44–60 years). The minimum followup was 5 years (mean, 5.5 years; range, 5–6 years). Polyethylene wear particles were analyzed using thermogravimetric methods and scanning electron microscopy. Results The weight of polyethylene wear particles produced at the bearing surface was 0.0223 ± 0.0054 g in 1 g synovial fluid in patients with an oxidized zirconium femoral component and 0.0228 ± 0.0062 g in patients with a cobalt-chrome femoral component. Size and shape of polyethylene wear particles were 0.59 ± 0.05 μm and 1.21 ± 0.24, respectively, in the patients with an oxidized zirconium femoral component and 0.52 ± 0.03 μm and 1.27 ± 0.31, respectively, in the patients with a cobalt-chrome femoral component. Knee Society knee and function scores, radiographic results, and complication rate were similar between the knees with an oxidized zirconium and cobalt-chrome femoral component. Conclusions The weight, size, and shape of polyethylene wear particles were similar in the knees with an oxidized zirconium and a cobalt-chrome femoral component. We found the theoretical advantages of this surface did not provide the actual advantage. Level of Evidence Level I, therapeutic study. See the guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. PMID:19949906

Interfacial surfactant competition and its impact on poly(ethylene oxide)/Au and poly(ethylene oxide)/Ag nanocomposite properties

PubMed Central

Seyhan, Merve; Kucharczyk, William; Yarar, U Ecem; Rickard, Katherine; Rende, Deniz; Baysal, Nihat; Bucak, Seyda; Ozisik, Rahmi

2017-01-01

The structure and properties of nanocomposites of poly(ethylene oxide), with Ag and Au nanoparticles, surface modified with a 1:1 (by volume) oleylamine/oleic acid mixture, were investigated via transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), infrared spectroscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis, and static mechanical testing. Results indicated that there was more oleylamine on Ag nanoparticles but more oleic acid on Au nanoparticles. This difference in surfactant populations on each nanoparticle led to different interfacial interactions with poly(ethylene oxide) and drastically influenced the glass transition temperature of these two nanocomposite systems. Almost all other properties were found to correlate strongly with dispersion and distribution state of Au and Ag nanoparticles, such that the property in question changed direction at the onset of agglomeration. PMID:28461744

Comparative study of the physicochemical, nutritional, and antioxidant properties of some commercial refined and non-centrifugal sugars.

PubMed

Lee, Jong Suk; Ramalingam, Srinivasan; Jo, Il Guk; Kwon, Ye Som; Bahuguna, Ashutosh; Oh, Young Sook; Kwon, O-Jun; Kim, Myunghee

2018-07-01

Three refined and four unrefined branded commercial sugars available in Korea were investigated in terms of pH, soluble solids, moisture, ash content, turbidity, color values, microbial profile, reducing power, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging activities, cellular antioxidant activity, and total phytoconstituent (i.e. phenolic, flavonoid, mineral, sucrose, glucose, and fructose) contents using standard analytical protocols such as high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography-flame ionization detector/mass spectrometry, and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy. All tested physicochemical parameters were within the recommended standard levels. Significantly high nutritional and antioxidant properties were observed for the unrefined sugars, especially AUNO® sugar, whereas a high sucrose content was detected for the refined sugars. Hence, this study revealed that the degree of purification affects the nutritional values and antioxidant potentials of sugars. The present findings also indicate that unrefined sugars can be used as sweeteners in sugar-based cuisine to obtain nutritional and antioxidant-rich foodstuff. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthesis and morphology of hydroxyapatite/polyethylene oxide nanocomposites with block copolymer compatibilized interfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Ji Hoon; Shofner, Meisha

2012-02-01

In order to exploit the promise of polymer nanocomposites, special consideration should be given to component interfaces during synthesis and processing. Previous results from this group have shown that nanoparticles clustered into larger structures consistent with their native shape when the polymer matrix crystallinity was high. Therefore in this research, the nanoparticles are disguised from a highly-crystalline polymer matrix by cloaking them with a matrix-compatible block copolymer. Specifically, spherical and needle-shaped hydroxyapatite nanoparticles were synthesized using a block copolymer templating method. The block copolymer used, polyethylene oxide-b-polymethacrylic acid, remained on the nanoparticle surface following synthesis with the polyethylene oxide block exposed. These nanoparticles were subsequently added to a polyethylene oxide matrix using solution processing. Characterization of the nanocomposites indicated that the copolymer coating prevented the nanoparticles from assembling into ordered clusters and that the matrix crystallinity was decreased at a nanoparticle spacing of approximately 100 nm.

Solid-state rechargeable magnesium battery

DOEpatents

Shao, Yuyan; Liu, Jun; Liu, Tianbiao; Li, Guosheng

2016-09-06

Embodiments of a solid-state electrolyte comprising magnesium borohydride, polyethylene oxide, and optionally a Group IIA or transition metal oxide are disclosed. The solid-state electrolyte may be a thin film comprising a dispersion of magnesium borohydride and magnesium oxide nanoparticles in polyethylene oxide. Rechargeable magnesium batteries including the disclosed solid-state electrolyte may have a coulombic efficiency .gtoreq.95% and exhibit cycling stability for at least 50 cycles.

Cytotoxic and aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase-inducing effects of laboratory rodent diets. A cell culture study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Toerroenen, R.; Pelkonen, K.; Kaerenlampi, S.

1991-01-01

Extracts of several rodent diets were studied for their cytotoxic and aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase-inducing properties by an in vitro method. The cell culture system based on a mouse hepatoma cell line (Hepa-1) was shown to be convenient and sensitive method for screening of diets for these parameters implying the presence of compounds potentially harmful in vivo. Considerable differences among diets and batches were detected. Smallest effects were observed with a semipurified diet and with the unrefined diet which - contrary to other four unrefined diets - contained no fish.

Exposure to Carbon Nanotube Material: Assessment of Nanotube Cytotoxicity Using Human Keratinocyte Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shvedova, Anna A.; Castranova, Vincent; Kisin, Elena R.; Schwegler-Berry, Diane; Murray, Ashley R.; Gandelsman, Vadim Z.; Maynard, Andrew; Baron, Paul

2003-01-01

Carbon nanotubes are new members of carbon allotropes similar to fullerenes and graphite. Because of their unique electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties, carbon nanotubes are important for novel applications in the electronics, aerospace, and computer industries. Exposure to graphite and carbon materials has been associated with increased incidence of skin diseases, such as carbon fiber dermatitis, hyperkeratosis, and naevi. We investigated adverse effects of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) using a cell culture of immortalized human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT). After 18 h of exposure of HaCaT to SWCNT, oxidative stress and cellular toxicity were indicated by formation of free radicals, accumulation of peroxidative products, antioxidant depletion, and loss of cell viability. Exposure to SWCNT also resulted in ultrastructural and morphological changes in cultured skin cells. These data indicate that dermal exposure to unrefined SWCNT may lead to dermal toxicity due to accelerated oxidative stress in the skin of exposed workers.

Food quality and motivation: a refined low-fat diet induces obesity and impairs performance on a progressive ratio schedule of instrumental lever pressing in rats.

PubMed

Blaisdell, Aaron P; Lau, Yan Lam Matthew; Telminova, Ekatherina; Lim, Hwee Cheei; Fan, Boyang; Fast, Cynthia D; Garlick, Dennis; Pendergrass, David C

2014-04-10

Purified high-fat diet (HFD) feeding causes deleterious metabolic and cognitive effects when compared with unrefined low-fat diets in rodent models. These effects are often attributed to the diet's high content of fat, while less attention has been paid to other mechanisms associated with the diet's highly refined state. Although the effects of HFD feeding on cognition have been explored, little is known about the impact of refined vs. unrefined food on cognition. We tested the hypothesis that a refined low-fat diet (LFD) increases body weight and adversely affects cognition relative to an unrefined diet. Rats were allowed ad libitum access to unrefined rodent chow (CON, Lab Diets 5001) or a purified low-fat diet (REF, Research Diets D12450B) for 6 months, and body weight and performance on an instrumental lever pressing task were recorded. After six months on their respective diets, group REF gained significantly more weight than group CON. REF rats made significantly fewer lever presses and exhibited dramatically lower breaking points than CON rats for sucrose and water reinforcement, indicating a chronic reduction of motivation for instrumental performance. Switching the rats' diet for 9 days had no effect on these measures. Diet-induced obesity produces a substantial deficit in motivated behavior in rats, independent of dietary fat content. This holds implications for an association between obesity and motivation. Specifically, behavioral traits comorbid with obesity, such as depression and fatigue, may be effects of obesity rather than contributing causes. To the degree that refined foods contribute to obesity, as demonstrated in our study, they may play a significant contributing role to other behavioral and cognitive disorders. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of poly(ethylene oxide) homopolymer and two different poly(ethylene oxide-b-poly(propylene oxide)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) triblock copolymers on morphological, optical, and mechanical properties of nanostructured unsaturated polyester.

PubMed

Builes, Daniel H; Hernández-Ortiz, Juan P; Corcuera, Ma Angeles; Mondragon, Iñaki; Tercjak, Agnieszka

2014-01-22

Novel nanostructured unsaturated polyester resin-based thermosets, modified with poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), poly(propylene oxide) (PPO), and two poly(ethylene oxide-b-propylene oxide-b-ethylene oxide) block copolymers (BCP), were developed and analyzed. The effects of molecular weights, blocks ratio, and curing temperatures on the final morphological, optical, and mechanical properties were reported. The block influence on the BCP miscibility was studied through uncured and cured mixtures of unsaturated polyester (UP) resins with PEO and PPO homopolymers having molecular weights similar to molecular weights of the blocks of BCP. The final morphology of the nanostructured thermosetting systems, containing BCP or homopolymers, was investigated, and multiple mechanisms of nanostructuration were listed and explained. By considering the miscibility of each block before and after curing, it was determined that the formation of the nanostructured matrices followed a self-assembly mechanism or a polymerization-induced phase separation mechanism. The miscibility between PEO or PPO blocks with one of two phases of UP matrix was highlighted due to its importance in the final thermoset properties. Relationships between the final morphology and thermoset optical and mechanical properties were examined. The mechanisms and physics behind the morphologies lead toward the design of highly transparent, nanostructured, and toughened thermosetting UP systems.

Gamma inert sterilization: a solution to polyethylene oxidation?

PubMed

Medel, Francisco J; Kurtz, Steven M; Hozack, William J; Parvizi, Javad; Purtill, James J; Sharkey, Peter F; MacDonald, Daniel; Kraay, Matthew J; Goldberg, Victor; Rimnac, Clare M

2009-04-01

In the 1990s, oxidation was found to occur in ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene total joint replacement components following gamma irradiation and prolonged shelf aging in air. Orthopaedic manufacturers developed barrier packaging to reduce oxidation during and after radiation sterilization. The present study explores the hypothesis that polyethylene components sterilized in a low-oxygen environment undergo similar in vivo oxidative mechanisms as inserts sterilized in air. In addition, the potential influence of the different sterilization processes on the wear performance of the polyethylene components was examined. An analysis of oxidation, wear, and surface damage was performed for forty-eight acetabular liners and 123 tibial inserts. The mean implantation time was 12.3+/-3.7 years for thirty-one acetabular liners that had been gamma sterilized in air and 4.0+/-2.5 years for the seventeen acetabular liners that had been gamma sterilized in inert gas. The mean implantation time was 11.0+/-3.2 years for the twenty-six tibial inserts that had been sterilized in air and 2.8+/-2.2 years for the ninety-seven tibial inserts that had been gamma sterilized in inert gas. Oxidation and hydroperoxide levels were characterized in loaded and unloaded regions of the inserts. Measurable oxidation and oxidation potential were observed in all cohorts. The oxidation and hydroperoxide levels were regional. Surfaces with access to body fluids were more heavily oxidized than protected bearing surfaces were. This variation appeared to be greater in historical (gamma-in-air-sterilized) components. Regarding wear performance, historical and conventional acetabular liners showed similar wear penetration rates, whereas a low incidence of delamination was confirmed for the conventional tibial inserts in the first decade of implantation. The present study explores the impact of industry-wide changes in sterilization practices for polyethylene. We found lower oxidation and oxidation potential in the conventional acetabular liners and tibial inserts that had been gamma sterilized in inert gas as compared with the historical components that had been gamma sterilized in air. However, we also found strong evidence that conventional components undergo mechanisms of in vivo oxidation similar to those observed following gamma irradiation in air. In addition, gamma sterilization in inert gas did not provide polyethylene with a significant improvement in terms of wear resistance as compared with gamma sterilization in air, except for a lower incidence of delamination in the first decade of implantation for tibial inserts.

Contamination of commercial cane sugars by some organic acids and some inorganic anions.

PubMed

Wojtczak, Maciej; Antczak, Aneta; Lisik, Krystyna

2013-01-01

The aim of the paper was the identification and the quantitative evaluation of the following inorganic anions: chloride, phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, sulphate and the following organic acids: lactic, acetic, formic, malic and citric in commercial "unrefined" brown cane sugars and in cane raw sugars. The determination was carried out by high performance anion exchange chromatography with conductivity detector HPAEC-CD. The conducted analyses have shown that the content of some inorganic anions and organic acids in cane sugars may be an important criterion of the quality of commercial "unrefined" brown cane sugars. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Anomalous diffusion of poly(ethylene oxide) in agarose gels.

PubMed

Brenner, Tom; Matsukawa, Shingo

2016-11-01

We report on the effect of probe size and diffusion time of poly(ethylene) oxide in agarose gels. Time-dependence of the diffusion coefficient, reflecting anomalous diffusion, was observed for poly(ethylene) oxide chains with hydrodynamic radii exceeding about 20nm at an agarose concentration of 2%. The main conclusion is that the pore distribution includes pores that are only several nm across, in agreement with scattering reports in the literature. Interpretation of the diffusion coefficient dependence on the probe size based on a model of entangled rigid rods yielded a rod length of 72nm. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

A directional entrapment modification on the polyethylene surface by the amphiphilic modifier of stearyl-alcohol poly(ethylene oxide) ether

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Qiang; Chen, Yi; Huang, Juexin; Huang, Jian; Wang, Xiaolin; Yao, Jiaying

2018-05-01

A novel entrapment modification method involving directional implantation of the amphiphilic modifier of stearyl-alcohol poly(ethylene oxide) ether (AEO) into the high-density polyethylene (HDPE) surface is proposed. This modification technique allows the AEO modifier to be able to spontaneously attain and subsequently penetrate into the swollen HDPE surface with its hydrophobic stearyl segment, while its hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) segment spontaneously points to water. The AEO modifier with a HLB number below 8.7 was proved appropriate for the directional entrapment, Nevertheless, AEOs with larger HLB numbers were also effective modifiers in the presence of salt additives. In addition, a larger and hydrophobic micelle, induced respectively by the AEO concentration above 1.3 × 10-2 mol/L and the entrapping temperature above the cloud point of AEO, could lead to a sharp contact angle decline of the modified surface. Finally, a hydrophilic HDPE surface with the modifier coverage of 38.9% was reached by the directional entrapment method, which is far larger than that of 19.2% by the traditional entrapment method.

Polymer Energy Rechargeable System Battery Being Developed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manzo, Michelle A.

2003-01-01

Long description. Illustrations of discotic liquid crystals, rod-coil polymers, lithium-ion conducting channel dilithium phthalocyanine (Li2Pc) from top and side, novel star polyethylene oxide structures, composite polyethylene oxide materials (showing polyethylene oxide + lithium salt, carbon atoms and oxygen atoms), homopolyrotaxanes, and diblock copolymers In fiscal year 2000, NASA established a program to develop the next generation, lithium-based, polymer electrolyte batteries for aerospace applications. The goal of this program, known as Polymer Energy Rechargeable Systems (PERS), is to develop a space-qualified, advanced battery system embodying polymer electrolyte and lithium-based electrode technologies and to establish world-class domestic manufacturing capabilities for advanced batteries with improved performance characteristics that address NASA s future aerospace battery requirements.

Design of Hybrid Solid Polymer Electrolytes: Structure and Properties

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bronstein, Lyudmila M.; Karlinsey, Robert L.; Ritter, Kyle; Joo, Chan Gyu; Stein, Barry; Zwanziger, Josef W.

2003-01-01

This paper reports synthesis, structure, and properties of novel hybrid solid polymer electrolytes (SPE's) consisting of organically modified aluminosilica (OM-ALSi), formed within a poly(ethylene oxide)-in-salt (Li triflate) phase. To alter the structure and properties we fused functionalized silanes containing poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) tails or CN groups.

Iridescent cellulose nanocrystal/polyethylene oxide composite films with low coefficient of thermal expansion

Treesearch

Jairo A. Diaz; Julia L. Braun; Robert J. Moon; Jeffrey P. Youngblood

2015-01-01

Simultaneous control over optical and thermal properties is particularly challenging and highly desired in fields like organic electronics. Here we incorporated cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) into polyethylene oxide (PEO) in an attempt to preserve the iridescent CNC optical reflection given by their chiral nematic organisation, while reducing the composite thermal...

A new approach to the immobilisation of poly(ethylene oxide) for the reduction of non-specific protein adsorption on conductive substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cole, Martin A.; Thissen, Helmut; Losic, Dusan; Voelcker, Nicolas H.

2007-04-01

Biomedical and biotechnological devices often require surface modifications to improve their performance. In most cases, uniform coatings are desired which provide a specific property or lead to a specific biological response. In the present work, we have generated pinhole-free coatings providing amine functional groups achieved by electropolymerisation of tyramine on highly doped silicon substrates. Furthermore, amine groups were used for the subsequent grafting of poly(ethylene oxide) aldehyde via reductive amination. All surface modification steps were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The results indicate that the stability and the density of amine functional groups introduced at the surface via electropolymerisation compare favourably with alternative coatings frequently used in biomedical and biotechnological devices such as plasma polymer films. Furthermore, protein adsorption on amine and poly(ethylene oxide) coatings was studied by XPS and a colorimetric assay to test enzymatic activity. The grafting of poly(ethylene oxide) under cloud point conditions on electropolymerised tyramine layers resulted in surfaces with extremely low protein fouling character.

Amperometric Biosensor Based on Zirconium Oxide/Polyethylene Glycol/Tyrosinase Composite Film for the Detection of Phenolic Compounds.

PubMed

Ahmad, Nor Monica; Abdullah, Jaafar; Yusof, Nor Azah; Ab Rashid, Ahmad Hazri; Abd Rahman, Samsulida; Hasan, Md Rakibul

2016-06-29

A phenolic biosensor based on a zirconium oxide/polyethylene glycol/tyrosinase composite film for the detection of phenolic compounds has been explored. The formation of the composite film was expected via electrostatic interaction between hexacetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and zirconium oxide nanoparticles casted on screen printed carbon electrode (SPCE). Herein, the electrode was treated by casting hexacetyltrimethylammonium bromide on SPCE to promote a positively charged surface. Later, zirconium oxide was mixed with polyethylene glycol and the mixture was dropped cast onto the positively charged SPCE/CTAB. Tyrosinase was further immobilized onto the modified SPCE. Characterization of the prepared nanocomposite film and the modified SPCE surface was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), and Cyclic voltamogram (CV). The developed biosensor exhibits rapid response for less than 10 s. Two linear calibration curves towards phenol in the concentrations ranges of 0.075-10 µM and 10-55 µM with the detection limit of 0.034 µM were obtained. The biosensor shows high sensitivity and good storage stability for at least 30 days.

In vivo degradation of polyethylene liners after gamma sterilization in air.

PubMed

Kurtz, Steven M; Rimnac, Clare M; Hozack, William J; Turner, Joseph; Marcolongo, Michele; Goldberg, Victor M; Kraay, Matthew J; Edidin, Avram A

2005-04-01

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene degrades during storage in air following gamma sterilization, but the extent of in vivo degradation remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to quantify the extent to which the mechanical properties and oxidation of conventional polyethylene acetabular liners treated with gamma sterilization in air change in vivo. Fourteen modular cementless acetabular liners were revised at an average of 10.3 years (range, 5.9 to 13.5 years) after implantation. All liners, which had been machined from GUR 415 resin, had been gamma-sterilized in air; the average shelf life was 0.3 year (range, 0.0 to 0.8 year). After removal, the components were expeditiously frozen to minimize ex vivo changes to the polyethylene prior to characterization. The average duration between freezing and testing was 0.6 year. Mechanical properties and oxidation were measured with use of the small-punch test and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, respectively, in the loaded and unloaded regions of the liners. There was substantial regional variation in the mechanical properties and oxidation of the retrieved liners. The ultimate load was observed to vary by >90% near the surface. On the average, the rim and the unloaded bearing showed evidence of severe oxidation near the surface after long-term in vivo aging, but these trends were not typically observed on the loaded bearing surface or near the backside of the liners. The mechanical properties of polyethylene that has been gamma-sterilized in air may decrease substantially in vivo, depending on the location in the liner. The most severe oxidation was observed at the rim, suggesting that the femoral head inhibits access of oxygen-containing body fluids to the bearing surface. This is perhaps why in vivo oxidation has not been associated with clinical performance to date.

Effect of support size on the catalytic activity of metal-oxide-doped silica particles in the glycolysis of polyethylene terephthalate.

PubMed

Wi, Rinbok; Imran, Muhammad; Lee, Kyoung G; Yoon, Sun Hong; Cho, Bong Gyoo; Kim, Do Hyun

2011-07-01

Zinc oxide (ZnO) and cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles were deposited on the surface of preformed silica spheres with diameters ranging from 60 to 750 nm. Ultrasonic irradiation was employed to promote the deposition of the metal oxide nanoparticles on the surface of silica. Silica-supported zinc oxide or cerium oxide was used as a catalyst in the glycolysis of polyethylene terephthalate, one of the key processes in the depolymerization of polyethylene terephthalate. The effect of the support size on the catalytic activity was studied in terms of monomer yield, and the monomer concentration was analyzed via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The morphologies and surface properties of the catalysts were characterized using a scanning electron microscope, a transmission electron microscope, and a BET surface area analyzer, while the monomer was characterized via HPLC and nuclear-magnetic-resonance spectroscopy. Both the zinc oxide and cerium oxide deposited on a smaller support showed better distribution and less aggregation. The high specific surface area of the smaller support catalysts provided a large number of active sites. The highest monomer yield was obtained with a catalyst of 60-nm silica support.

Poly(organo phosphazene) nanoparticles surface modified with poly(ethylene oxide).

PubMed

Vandorpe, J; Schacht, E; Stolnik, S; Garnett, M C; Davies, M C; Illum, L; Davis, S S

1996-10-05

The use of biodegradable derivatives of poly(organo phosphazenes) for the preparation of nanoparticles and their surface modification with the novel poly(ethylene oxide) derivative of poly(organo phosphazene) has been assessed using a range of in vitro characterization methods. The nanoparticles were produced by the precipitation solvent evaporation method from the derivative co-substituted with phenylalanine and glycine ethyl ester side groups. A reduction in particle size to less than 200 nm was achieved by an increase in pH of the preparation medium. The formation (and colloidal stability) of these nanoparticles seems to be controlled by two opposite effects: attractive hydrophobic interactions between phenylalanine ester groups and electrostatic repulsions arising from the carboxyl groups formed due to (partial) hydrolysis of the ester bond(s) at the high pH of the preparation medium. The poly[(glycine ethyl ester)phosphazene] derivative containing 5000-Da poly(ethylene oxide) as 5% of the side groups was used for the surface modification of nanoparticles. Adsorbed onto the particles, the polymer produced a thick coating layer of approximately 35 nm. The coated nanoparticles exhibited reduced surface negative potential and improved colloidal stability toward electrolyte-induced flocculation, relative to the uncoated system. However, the steric stabilization provided was less effective than that of a Poloxamine 908 coating. This difference in effectiveness of the steric stabilization might indicate that, although both the stabilizing polymers possess a 5000-Da poly(ethylene oxide) moiety, there is a difference in the arrangements of these poly(ethylene oxide) chains at the particle surface. (c) 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Synthesis of polyrotaxanes from acetyl-β-cyclodextrin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ristić, I. S.; Nikolić, L.; Nikolić, V.; Ilić, D.; Budinski-Simendić, J.

2011-12-01

Polyrotaxanes are intermediary products in the synthesis of topological gels. They are created by inclusion complex formation of hydrophobic linear macromolecules with cyclodextrins or their derivatives. Then, pairs of cyclodextrin molecules with covalently linkage were practically forming the nodes of the semi-flexible polymer network. Such gels are called topological gels and they can absorb huge quantities of water due to the net flexibility allowing the poly(ethylene oxide) chains to slide through the cyclodextrin cavities, without being pulled out altogether. For polyrotaxane formation poly(ethylene oxide) was used like linear macromolecules. There are hydroxyl groups at poly(ethylene oxide) chains, whereby the linking of the voluminous molecules should be made. To avoid the reaction of cyclodextrin OH groups with stoppers, they should be protected by, e.g., acetylation. In this work, the acetylation of the OH groups of β-cyclodextrin was performed by acetic acid anhydride with iodine as the catalyst. The acetylation reaction was assessed by the FTIR and HPLC method. By the HPLC analysis was found that the acetylation was completed in 20 minutes. Inserting of poly(ethylene oxide) with 4000 g/mol molecule mass into acetyl-β-cyclodextrin with 2:1 poly(ethylene oxide) monomer unit to acetyl-β-cyclodextrin ratio was also monitored by FTIR, and it was found that the process was completed in 12 h at the temperature of 10°C. If the process is performed at temperatures above 10°C, or for periods longer than 12 hours, the process of uncontrolled hydrolysis of acetate groups was initiated.

Miscibility of poly(lactic acid) and poly(ethylene oxide) solvent polymer blends and nanofibers made by solution blow spinning

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The miscibility of blends of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) was studied in polymer solutions by dilute solution viscometry and in solution blow spun nanofibers by microscopy (SEM, TEM) and by thermal and spectral analysis. Three blends of PLA and PEO were solution blended in...

Biological resistance of polyethylene composites made with chemically modified fiber or flour

Treesearch

Rebecca E. Ibach; Craig M. Clemons

2002-01-01

The role of moisture in the biological decay of wood-plastic composites was investigated. Southern pine wood fiber and ponderosa pine wood flour were chemically modified using either acetic anhydride (AA), butylene oxide (BO), or propylene oxide (PO). A 50:50 mixture of high density polyethylene and either chemically modified fiber or flour, or untreated fiber or flour...

Comparison between Cellulose Nanocrystal and Cellulose Nanofibril Reinforced Poly(ethylene oxide) Nanofibers and Their Novel Shish-Kebab-Like Crystalline Structures

Treesearch

Xuezhu Xu; Haoran Wang; Long Jiang; Xinnan Wang; Scott A. Payne; J.Y. Zhu; Ruipeng Li

2014-01-01

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) nanofiber mats were produced by electrospinning. Biobased cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) as reinforcement nanofillers were also added to the polymer to produce composite nanofiber mats. The effects of the two cellulose nanofillers on the rheological properties of the PEO solutions and the microstructure,...

[Effect of sterilisation with formaldehyde, gamma irradiation and ethylene oxide on the properties of polyethylene joint replacement components].

PubMed

Fulín, P; Pokorný, D; Slouf, M; Vacková, T; Dybal, J; Sosna, A

2014-01-01

Each method of sterilisation has some effect on the structure and properties of UHMWPE and thus also on joint replacement longevity. This study was designed to compare, using objective methods of measurement, several kinds of sterilisation and to recommend the one which has the best prospect for making joint replacements last longer. Two groups of UHMWPE samples were tested. Group 1 included virgin GUR 1020 polyethylene, non-modified and non-sterilised (Meditech, Germany). Group 2 comprised of three sets of samples sterilised with formaldehyde, gamma irradiation and ethylene oxide, respectively. In both groups, physicochemical properties were assessed by infrared spectroscopy (IR), and the oxidation (OI) and trans-vinyl (VI) indices, which show the degree of oxidation of a material, were determined. Free-radical concentrations were measured by the method of electron spin resonance (ESR). The mechanical properties of each sample were studied using small punch tests (SPT) and testing microhardness (MH). Any change in mechanical properties can affect, to various degrees, the quality and longevity of a prosthetic joint. The samples sterilised by gamma irradiation showed higher values of both the OI (0.37) and the VI index (0.038) than the other samples (OI, 0.02 to 0.05 and VI, 0). Also, the free-radical concentration was detectable only in the gamma-sterilised sample. Values obtained for mechanical properties were as follows: peak load in the range of 58.48 N (gamma irradiation) to 59.60 N (ethylene oxide); ultimate load in the range of 46.69 N (gamma irradiation) to 57.50 N (ethylene oxide); ultimate displacement in the range of 4.29 mm (gamma irradiation) to 4.58 mm (virgin polyethylene and formaldehyde); and work to failure in the range of 185.18 mJ (gamma irradiation) to 205.89 mJ (virgin polyethylene). Microhardness values were obtained in the following ranges: 41.2 to 44.6 MPa (virgin polyethylene); 40.2 to 44.1 MPa (formaldehyde); 46.1 to 49.3 MPa (gamma irradiation); and 40.3 to 44.2 MPa (ethylene oxide). The samples sterilised with formaldehyde and ethylene oxide have mechanical properties very similar to virgin polyethylene, they are not damaged by oxidation and do not contain free radicals. Owing to these characteristics, the immediate and long-term oxidation stability of the three samples is higher. The sample sterilised by gamma irradiation showed the presence of free radicals and immediate and long-term oxidative degradation. This results in the deterioration of mechanical properties and the growth of crystallinity due to enhanced oxidation and leads to higher polyethylene microhardness. Sterilisation with gamma irradiation results in oxidative degradation and mechanical property deterioration, which is one of the potential risks of a shorter life span of joint replacements. The use of ethylene oxide or formaldehyde does not change polymer properties nor has any effect on oxidation of materials. Therefore, a longer life expectancy of the joint replacements sterilised with ethylene oxide can be expected. The life span of their joint replacements is a key issue for the patients. Prosthetic joint loosening is painful and the patient often requires re-implantation. A higher number of re-implantations is associated with higher costs for the institution involved and, consequently, for the whole health care system. Although this study basically deals with chemical issues, it informs the surgeon of the latest developments leading to the improvement of implanted materials, which can increase the life expectancy of joint replacements and patients' satisfaction.

Amperometric Biosensor Based on Zirconium Oxide/Polyethylene Glycol/Tyrosinase Composite Film for the Detection of Phenolic Compounds

PubMed Central

Ahmad, Nor Monica; Abdullah, Jaafar; Yusof, Nor Azah; Ab Rashid, Ahmad Hazri; Abd Rahman, Samsulida; Hasan, Md. Rakibul

2016-01-01

A phenolic biosensor based on a zirconium oxide/polyethylene glycol/tyrosinase composite film for the detection of phenolic compounds has been explored. The formation of the composite film was expected via electrostatic interaction between hexacetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and zirconium oxide nanoparticles casted on screen printed carbon electrode (SPCE). Herein, the electrode was treated by casting hexacetyltrimethylammonium bromide on SPCE to promote a positively charged surface. Later, zirconium oxide was mixed with polyethylene glycol and the mixture was dropped cast onto the positively charged SPCE/CTAB. Tyrosinase was further immobilized onto the modified SPCE. Characterization of the prepared nanocomposite film and the modified SPCE surface was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), and Cyclic voltamogram (CV). The developed biosensor exhibits rapid response for less than 10 s. Two linear calibration curves towards phenol in the concentrations ranges of 0.075–10 µM and 10–55 µM with the detection limit of 0.034 µM were obtained. The biosensor shows high sensitivity and good storage stability for at least 30 days. PMID:27367738

Injectible bodily prosthetics employing methacrylic copolymer gels

DOEpatents

Mallapragada, Surya K.; Anderson, Brian C.

2007-02-27

The present invention provides novel block copolymers as structural supplements for injectible bodily prosthetics employed in medical or cosmetic procedures. The invention also includes the use of such block copolymers as nucleus pulposus replacement materials for the treatment of degenerative disc disorders and spinal injuries. The copolymers are constructed by polymerization of a tertiary amine methacrylate with either a (poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(propylene oxide)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) polymer, such as the commercially available Pluronic.RTM. polymers, or a poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether polymer.

pH-sensitive methacrylic copolymer gels and the production thereof

DOEpatents

Mallapragada, Surya K [Ames, IA; Anderson, Brian C [Lake Bluff, IA

2007-05-15

The present invention provides novel gel forming methacrylic blocking copolymers that exhibit cationic pH-sensitive behavior as well as good water solubility. The copolymers are constructed by polymerization of a tertiary amine methacrylate with either a (poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(propylene oxide)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) polymer, such as the commercially available Pluronic.RTM. polymers, or a poly(ethylene glycol)methyl ether polymer. The polymers may be used for drug and gene delivery, protein separation, as structural supplements, and more.

1.55 Micrometer Sub-Micron Finger, Interdigitated MSM Photodetector Arrays with Low Dark Current

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-02

pf a- IGZO TFTs. IV. RF Characteristics of Room Temperature Deposited Indium Zinc Oxide Thin - Film Transistors Depletion-mode indium zinc...III. High Performance Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide Thin Film Transistors Fabricated On Polyethylene Terephthalate Substrates High-performance...amorphous (a-) InGaZnO-based thin film transistors (TFTs) were fabricated on flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates coated with indium

Polyethylene Oxide (PEO) and Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Polymer Sieving Matrix for RNA Capillary Electrophoresis

PubMed Central

Yamaguchi, Yoshinori; Li, Zhenqing; Zhu, Xifang; Liu, Chenchen; Zhang, Dawei; Dou, Xiaoming

2015-01-01

The selection of sieving polymer for RNA fragments separation by capillary electrophoresis is imperative. We investigated the separation of RNA fragments ranged from 100 to 10,000 nt in polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) solutions with different molecular weight and different concentration. We found that the separation performance of the small RNA fragments (<1000 nt) was improved with the increase of polymer concentration, whereas the separation performance for the large ones (>4000 nt) deteriorated in PEG/PEO solutions when the concentration was above 1.0%/0.6%, respectively. By double logarithmic plot of mobility and RNA fragment size, we revealed three migration regimes for RNA in PEG (300-500k) and PEO (4,000k). Moreover, we calculated the smallest resolvable nucleotide length (N min) from the resolution length analysis. PMID:25933347

Processable conductive graphene/polyethylene nanocomposites: Effects of graphene dispersion and polyethylene blending with oxidized polyethylene on rheology and microstructure

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Iqbal, Muhammad Z.; Abdala, Ahmed A.; Mittal, Vikas

Poor dispersion of graphene in non-polar polymer matrices creates composites with limited applications. A method to improve the dispersion of graphene in polyethylene (PE) via blending PE with oxidized PE (OPE) is examined. Graphene was produced by simultaneous thermal exfoliation and reduction of graphite oxide. Nanocomposites of graphene with PE as well as graphene with PE/OPE-blends were prepared by solvent blending. Improved dispersion of graphene in PE/OPE blends substantially decreases percolation from both rheological (0.3 vol%) and electrical (0.13 vol%) measurements compared to neat PE nanocomposites (1 and 0.29 vol%), respectively. A universal Brownian dispersion of graphene in polymers wasmore » concluded similar to that of nanotubes, following the Doi-Edwards theory. Micromechanical models, such as Mori-Tanaka and Halpin-Tsai models, modeled the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. The nanocomposites microstructure, studied by small angle x-ray scattering, confirmed better dispersion of graphene at lower loadings and the formation of surface fractals in the blend/graphene nanocomposites; whereas only mass fractals were observed in neat PE/graphene nanocomposites.« less

Bacterial Utilization of Ether Glycols

PubMed Central

Fincher, Edward L.; Payne, W. J.

1962-01-01

A soil bacterium capable of using oligo- and polyethylene glycols and ether alcohols as sole sources of carbon for aerobic growth was isolated. The effects of substituent groups added to the ether bonds on the acceptability of the compounds as substrates were studied. Mechanisms for the incorporation of two-carbon compounds were demonstrated by the observation that acetate, glyoxylate, ethylene glycol, and a number of the tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates served as growth substrates in minimal media. The rate of oxidation of the short-chained ethylene glycols by adapted resting cells varied directly with increasing numbers of two-carbon units in the chains from one to four. The amount of oxygen consumed per carbon atom of oligo- and polyethylene glycols was 100% of theoretical, but only 67% of theoretical for ethylene glycol. Resting cells oxidized oligo- and polyethylene glycols with 2 to 600 two-carbon units in the chains. Longer chained polyethylene glycols (up to 6,000) were oxidized at a very slow rate by these cells. Dehydrogenation of triethylene glycol by adapted cells was observed, coupling the reaction with methylene blue reduction. PMID:13945208

Wear Analysis in THA Utilizing Oxidized Zirconium and Crosslinked Polyethylene

PubMed Central

Garvin, Kevin L.; Mangla, Jimmi; Murdoch, Nathan; Martell, John M.

2008-01-01

Oxidized zirconium, a material with a ceramic surface on a metal substrate, and highly cross-linked polyethylene are two materials developed to reduce wear. We measured in vivo femoral head penetration in patients with these advanced bearings. We hypothesized the linear wear rates would be lower than those published for cobalt-chrome and standard polyethylene. We retrospectively reviewed a select series of 56 THAs in a relatively young, active patient population utilizing oxidized zirconium femoral heads and highly cross-linked polyethylene acetabular liners. Femoral head penetration was determined using the Martell computerized edge-detection method. All patients were available for 2-year clinical and radiographic followup. True linear wear was 4 μm/year (95% confidence intervals, ± 59 μm/year). The early wear rates in this cohort of relatively young, active patients were low and we believe justify the continued study of these alternative bearing surfaces. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. PMID:18946711

Biodegradability of degradable plastic waste.

PubMed

Agamuthu, P; Faizura, Putri Nadzrul

2005-04-01

Plastic waste constitutes the third largest waste volume in Malaysian municipal solid waste (MSW), next to putrescible waste and paper. The plastic component in MSW from Kuala Lumpur averages 24% (by weight), whereas the national mean is about 15%. The 144 waste dumps in the country receive about 95% of the MSW, including plastic waste. The useful life of the landfills is fast diminishing as the plastic waste stays un-degraded for more than 50 years. In this study the compostability of polyethylene and pro-oxidant additive-based environmentally degradable plastics (EDP) was investigated. Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) samples exposed hydrolytically or oxidatively at 60 degrees C showed that the abiotic degradation path was oxidative rather than hydrolytic. There was a weight loss of 8% and the plastic has been oxidized as shown by the additional carbonyl group exhibited in the Fourier transform infra red (FTIR) Spectrum. Oxidation rate seemed to be influenced by the amount of pro-oxidant additive, the chemical structure and morphology of the plastic samples, and the surface area. Composting studies during a 45-day experiment showed that the percentage elongation (reduction) was 20% for McD samples [high-density polyethylene, (HDPE) with 3% additive] and LL samples (LLDPE with 7% additive) and 18% reduction for totally degradable plastic (TDP) samples (HDPE with 3% additive). Lastly, microbial experiments using Pseudomonas aeroginosa on carbon-free media with degradable plastic samples as the sole carbon source, showed confirmatory results. A positive bacterial growth and a weight loss of 2.2% for degraded polyethylene samples were evident to show that the degradable plastic is biodegradable.

Release mechanisms of acetaminophen from polyethylene oxide/polyethylene glycol matrix tablets utilizing magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Tajiri, Tomokazu; Morita, Shigeaki; Sakamoto, Ryosaku; Suzuki, Masazumi; Yamanashi, Shigeyuki; Ozaki, Yukihiro; Kitamura, Satoshi

2010-08-16

Release mechanism of acetaminophen (AAP) from extended-release tablets of hydrogel polymer matrices containing polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) were achieved using flow-through cell with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The hydrogel forming abilities are observed characteristically and the layer thickness which is corresponding to the diffusion length of AAP has a good correlation with the drug release profiles. In addition, polymeric erosion contribution to AAP releasing from hydrogel matrix tablets was directly quantified using size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). The matrix erosion profile indicates that the PEG erosion kinetic depends primarily on the composition ratio of PEG to PEO. The present study has confirmed that the combination of in situ MRI and SEC should be well suited to investigate the drug release mechanisms of hydrogel matrix such as PEO/PEG. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fragmentation-based QM/MM simulations: length dependence of chain dynamics and hydrogen bonding of polyethylene oxide and polyethylene in aqueous solutions.

PubMed

Li, Hui; Li, Wei; Li, Shuhua; Ma, Jing

2008-06-12

Molecular fragmentation quantum mechanics (QM) calculations have been combined with molecular mechanics (MM) to construct the fragmentation QM/MM method for simulations of dilute solutions of macromolecules. We adopt the electrostatics embedding QM/MM model, where the low-cost generalized energy-based fragmentation calculations are employed for the QM part. Conformation energy calculations, geometry optimizations, and Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics simulations of poly(ethylene oxide), PEO(n) (n = 6-20), and polyethylene, PE(n) ( n = 9-30), in aqueous solution have been performed within the framework of both fragmentation and conventional QM/MM methods. The intermolecular hydrogen bonding and chain configurations obtained from the fragmentation QM/MM simulations are consistent with the conventional QM/MM method. The length dependence of chain conformations and dynamics of PEO and PE oligomers in aqueous solutions is also investigated through the fragmentation QM/MM molecular dynamics simulations.

Dynamic mechanical properties of hydroxyapatite/polyethylene oxide nanocomposites: characterizing isotropic and post-processing microstructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shofner, Meisha; Lee, Ji Hoon

2012-02-01

Compatible component interfaces in polymer nanocomposites can be used to facilitate a dispersed morphology and improved physical properties as has been shown extensively in experimental results concerning amorphous matrix nanocomposites. In this research, a block copolymer compatibilized interface is employed in a semi-crystalline matrix to prevent large scale nanoparticle clustering and enable microstructure construction with post-processing drawing. The specific materials used are hydroxyapatite nanoparticles coated with a polyethylene oxide-b-polymethacrylic acid block copolymer and a polyethylene oxide matrix. Two particle shapes are used: spherical and needle-shaped. Characterization of the dynamic mechanical properties indicated that the two nanoparticle systems provided similar levels of reinforcement to the matrix. For the needle-shaped nanoparticles, the post-processing step increased matrix crystallinity and changed the thermomechanical reinforcement trends. These results will be used to further refine the post-processing parameters to achieve a nanocomposite microstructure with triangulated arrays of nanoparticles.

Surface grafting of cellulose nanocrystals with poly(ethylene oxide) in aqueous media.

PubMed

Kloser, Elisabeth; Gray, Derek G

2010-08-17

Aqueous suspensions of poly(ethylene oxide)-grafted nanocrystalline cellulose (PEO-grafted NCC) were prepared in order to achieve steric instead of electrostatic stabilization. A two-step process was employed: in the first step NCC suspensions prepared by sulfuric acid hydrolysis were desulfated with sodium hydroxide, and in the second step the surfaces of the crystals were functionalized with epoxy-terminated poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO epoxide) under alkaline conditions. The PEO-grafted samples were analyzed by conductometric titration, ATR-IR, solid-state NMR, MALDI-TOF MS, SEC MALLS, and AFM. The covalent nature of the linkage was confirmed by weight increase and MALDI-TOF analysis. The PEO-grafted cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) formed a stable colloidal suspension that remained well dispersed, while the desulfated nanoparticles aggregated and precipitated. Upon concentration of the PEO-grafted aqueous NCC suspension, a chiral nematic phase was observed.

Raman spectroscopy of biomedical polyethylenes.

PubMed

Pezzotti, Giuseppe

2017-06-01

With the development of three-dimensional Raman algorithms for local mapping of oxidation and plastic strain, and the ability to resolve molecular orientation patterns with microscopic spatial resolution, there is an opportunity to re-examine many of the foundations on which our understanding of biomedical grade ultra-high molecular weight polyethylenes (UHMWPEs) are based. By implementing polarized Raman spectroscopy into an automatized tool with an improved precision in non-destructively resolving Euler angles, oxidation levels, and microscopic strain, we become capable to make accurate and traceable measurements of the in vitro and in vivo tribological responses of a variety of commercially available UHMWPE bearings for artificial hip and knee joints. In this paper, we first review the foundations and the main algorithms for Raman analyses of oxidation and strain of biomedical polyethylene. Then, we critically re-examine a large body of Raman data previously collected on different polyethylene joint components after in vitro testing or in vivo service, in order to shed new light on an area of particular importance to joint orthopedics: the microscopic nature of UHMWPE surface degradation in the human body. A complex scenario of physical chemistry appears from the Raman analyses, which highlights the importance of molecular-scale phenomena besides mere microstructural changes. The availability of the Raman microscopic probe for visualizing oxidation patterns unveiled striking findings related to the chemical contribution to wear degradation: chain-breaking and subsequent formation of carboxylic acid sites preferentially occur in correspondence of third-phase regions, and they are triggered by emission of dehydroxylated oxygen from ceramic oxide counterparts. These findings profoundly differ from more popular (and simplistic) notions of mechanistic tribology adopted in analyzing joint simulator data. Statement of Significance This review was dedicated to the theoretical and experimental evaluation of the commercially available biomedical polyethylene samples by Raman spectroscopy with regard to their molecular textures, oxidative patterns, and plastic strain at the microscopic level in the three dimensions of the Euclidean space. The main achievements could be listed, as follow: (i) visualization of molecular patterns at the surface of UHMWPE bearings operating against metallic components; (ii) differentiation between wear and creep deformation in retrievals; (iii) non-destructive mapping of oxidative patterns; and, (iv) the clarification of chemical interactions between oxide/non-oxide ceramic heads and advanced UHMWPE liners. Copyright © 2017 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Preservation of Mercury in Polyethylene Containers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Piccolino, Samuel Paul

1983-01-01

Reports results of experiments favoring use of 0.5 percent nitric acid with an oxidant (potassium dichromate or potassium permanganate) to preserve samples in polyethylene containers for mercury analysis. Includes procedures used and statistical data obtained from the experiments. (JN)

Sequential pyrolysis of plastic to recover polystyrene HCL and terephthalic acid

DOEpatents

Evans, Robert J.; Chum, Helena L.

1995-01-01

A process of pyrolyzing plastic waste feed streams containing polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene and polyethylene to recover polystyrene HCl and terephthalic acid comprising: heating the plastic waste feed stream to a first temperature; adding an acid or base catalyst on an oxide or carbonate support; heating the plastic waste feed stream to pyrolyze polyethylene terephthalate and polyvinyl chloride; separating terephthalic acid or HCl; heating to a second temperature to pyrolyze polystyrene; separating styrene; heating the waste feed stream to a third temperature to pyrolyze polyethylene; and separating hydrocarbons.

Inhibition of bacterial and leukocyte adhesion under shear stress conditions by material surface chemistry.

PubMed

Patel, Jasmine D; Ebert, Michael; Stokes, Ken; Ward, Robert; Anderson, James M

2003-01-01

Biomaterial-centered infections, initiated by bacterial adhesion, persist due to a compromised host immune response. Altering implant materials with surface modifying endgroups (SMEs) may enhance their biocompatibility by reducing bacterial and inflammatory cell adhesion. A rotating disc model, which generates shear stress within physiological ranges, was used to characterize adhesion of leukocytes and Staphylococcus epidermidis on polycarbonate-urethanes and polyetherurethanes modified with SMEs (polyethylene oxide, fluorocarbon and dimethylsiloxane) under dynamic flow conditions. Bacterial adhesion in the absence of serum was found to be mediated by shear stress and surface chemistry, with reduced adhesion exhibited on materials modified with polydimethylsiloxane and polyethylene oxide SMEs. In contrast, bacterial adhesion was enhanced on materials modified with fluorocarbon SMEs. In the presence of serum, bacterial adhesion was primarily neither material nor shear dependent. However, bacterial adhesion in serum was significantly reduced to < or = 10% compared to adhesion in serum-free media. Leukocyte adhesion in serum exhibited a shear dependency with increased adhesion occurring in regions exposed to lower shear-stress levels of < or = 7 dyne/cm2. Additionally, polydimethylsiloxane and polyethylene oxide SMEs reduced leukocyte adhesion on polyether-urethanes. In conclusion, these results suggest that surface chemistry and shear stress can mediate bacterial and cellular adhesion. Furthermore, materials modified with polyethylene oxide SMEs are capable of inhibiting bacterial adhesion, consequently minimizing the probability of biomaterial-centered infections.

Comparative toxicity of pristine graphene oxide and its carboxyl, imidazole or polyethylene glycol functionalized products to Daphnia magna: A two generation study.

PubMed

Liu, Yingying; Han, Wenli; Xu, Zhizhen; Fan, Wenhong; Peng, Weihua; Luo, Shenglian

2018-06-01

To investigate the chronic toxicity of graphene oxide (GO) and its functionalized products (GO-carboxyl, GO-imidazole and GO-polyethylene glycol), a two-generation study was conducted using the aquatic model species Daphnia magna. Each generation of daphnids were exposed for 21 days to 1.0 mg L -1 graphene material, with body length, neonate number, time of first brood and the intrinsic rate of natural increase (r) assessed as endpoints. Chronic exposure to GO, GO-carboxyl, and GO-imidazole had no adverse effect on body length or offspring number in the daphnid F0 generation, however, this exposure paradigm led to significant growth or reproduction inhibition in the following generation. Meanwhile, GO was found to show the strongest inhibitory effect, sequentially followed by GO-carboxyl and GO-imidazole. With exposure to GO-polyethylene glycol, no significant effects on growth or reproduction were observed for both F0 and F1 generation daphnids. These results reveal that carboxyl, imidazole and polyethylene glycol functional attachments alleviate the bio-toxicity of GO, especially polyethylene glycol. The increased C/O atomic ratio present in GO-carboxyl, GO-imidazole and GO-polyethylene glycol due to functionalization may mainly explain the reduced toxicity. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Wear Behaviours and Oxidation Effects on Different UHMWPE Acetabular Cups Using a Hip Joint Simulator

PubMed Central

Jaber, Sami Abdel; Merola, Massimiliano

2018-01-01

Given the long-term problem of polyethylene wear, medical interest in the new improved cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE), with or without the adding of vitamin E, has risen. The main aim of this study is to gain further insights into the mutual effects of radiation cross-linking and addition of vitamin E on the wear performance of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). We tested four different batches of polyethylene (namely, a standard one, a vitamin E-stabilized, and two cross-linked) in a hip joint simulator for five million cycles where bovine calf serum was used as lubricant. The acetabular cups were then analyzed using a confocal profilometer to characterize the surface topography. Moreover; the cups were analyzed by using Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry in order to assess the chemical characteristics of the pristine materials. Comparing the different cups’ configuration, mass loss was found to be higher for standard polyethylene than for the other combinations. Mass loss negatively correlated to the cross-link density of the polyethylenes. None of the tested formulations showed evidence of oxidative degradation. We found no correlation between roughness parameters and wear. Furthermore, we found significantly differences in the wear behavior of all the acetabular cups. XLPEs exhibited lower weight loss, which has potential for reduced wear and decreased osteolysis. However, surface topography revealed smoother surfaces of the standard and vitamin E stabilized polyethylene than on the cross-linked samples. This observation suggests incipient crack generations on the rough and scratched surfaces of the cross-linked polyethylene liners. PMID:29547536

Fabrication and study of properties of magnetite nanoparticles in hybrid micelles of polystyrene-block-polyethylene oxide and sodium dodecyl sulfate

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Loginova, T. P., E-mail: tlg@ineos.ac.ru; Timofeeva, G. I.; Lependina, O. L.

2016-01-15

Magnetite nanoparticles have been formed for the first time in hybrid micelles of polystyrene-block-polyethylene oxide and sodium dodecyl sulfate in water by ultrasonic treatment at room temperature. An analysis by small-angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that magnetite nanoparticles in hybrid micelles of block copolymer and sodium dodecyl sulfate are polydesperse (have sizes from 0.5 to 20 nm). The specific magnetization of solid samples has been measured.

Polyethylene glycol assisted growth of Sn-doped ZnO nanorod arrays prepared via sol-gel immersion method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ismail, A. S.; Mamat, M. H.; Malek, M. F.; Saidi, S. A.; Yusoff, M. M.; Mohamed, R.; Sin, N. D. Md; Suriani, A. B.; Rusop, M.

2018-05-01

Tin-doped zinc oxide (SZO) nanorod films at different concentrations of polyethylene glycol (PEG) were successfully deposited on zinc oxide (ZnO) seeded layer catalyst using sol-gel immersion method. The morphology of the samples were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), optical properties using UV-Vis spectrophotometer and electrical properties using I-V measurement system. The current-voltage (I-V) characteristics displayed that 5 wt % sample produced the highest conductivity.

Hydrolytic degradation of poly(ethylene oxide)-block-polycaprolactone worm micelles.

PubMed

Geng, Yan; Discher, Dennis E

2005-09-21

Spherical micelles and nanoparticles made with degradable polymers have been of great interest for therapeutic application, but degradation-induced changes in a spherical morphology can be subtle and mechanism/kinetics appears poorly understood. Here, we report the first preparation of giant and flexible worm micelles self-assembled from degradable copolymer poly(ethylene oxide)-block-polycaprolactone. Such worm micelles spontaneously shorten to generate spherical micelles, triggered by polycaprolactone hydrolysis, with distinct mechanism and kinetics from that which occurs in bulk material.

Oxidized zirconium on ceramic; Catastrophic coupling.

PubMed

Ozden, V E; Saglam, N; Dikmen, G; Tozun, I R

2017-02-01

Oxidized zirconium (Oxinium™; Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN, USA) articulated with polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty (THA) appeared to have the potential to reduce wear dramatically. The thermally oxidized metal zirconium surface is transformed into ceramic-like hard surface that is resistant to abrasion. The exposure of soft zirconium metal under hard coverage surface after the damage of oxidized zirconium femoral head has been described. It occurred following joint dislocation or in situ succeeding disengagement of polyethylene liner. We reported three cases of misuse of Oxinium™ (Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN, USA) heads. These three cases resulted in catastrophic in situ wear and inevitable failure although there was no advice, indication or recommendation for this use from the manufacturer. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Electrical Characterization of Polyaniline/polyethylene Oxide Nanofibers for Field Effect Transistors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mueller, Carl H.; Theofylaktos, Noulie; Pinto, Nicholas J.; Robinson, Daryl C.; Miranda, Felix A.

2002-01-01

Nanofibers comprised of polyaniline/polyethylene oxide (PANI/PEO) are being developed for novel logic devices. We report the electrical conductivity of PANI/PEO nanofibers with diameters in the 100 to 200 nm range. We measured conductivity values of approx. 0.3 to 1.0 S/cm, which is higher than the values reported for thicker nanofibers, but less than the bulk value of PANI. The electrical measurements were performed by depositing the fibers on pre-electroded, oxidized silicon (Si) substrates. The excellent adherence of the nanofibers to the SiO2 as well as the gold (Au) electrodes may be useful in the design of future devices.

Sequential pyrolysis of plastic to recover polystyrene, HCl and terephthalic acid

DOEpatents

Evans, R.J.; Chum, H.L.

1995-11-07

A process is described for pyrolyzing plastic waste feed streams containing polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene and polyethylene to recover polystyrene, HCl and terephthalic acid comprising: heating the plastic waste feed stream to a first temperature; adding an acid or base catalyst on an oxide or carbonate support; heating the plastic waste feed stream to pyrolyze polyethylene terephthalate and polyvinyl chloride; separating terephthalic acid or HCl; heating to a second temperature to pyrolyze polystyrene; separating styrene; heating the waste feed stream to a third temperature to pyrolyze polyethylene; and separating hydrocarbons. 83 figs.

Local Structure and Ion Transport in Glassy Poly(ethylene oxide styrene) Copolymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Han-Chang; Mays, Jimmy; Sokolov, Alexei P.; Winey, Karen I.

2014-03-01

Polymer electrolytes have attracted attention for a wide variety of applications in energy production such as lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells. The concept of free volume provides important information about ion mobility and chain dynamics in the polymer matrix. Researchers have recently demonstrated that ion transport in glassy polymer can be improved by designing a system with high free volume. We have studied the effect of temperature and humidity on the intermolecular correlations of poly(ethylene oxide styrene-block-styrene) (PEOSt- b-St) block copolymer and poly(ethylene oxide styrene) (PEOSt) homopolymer using in situ multi-angle x-ray scattering across a wide range of scattering angles (q = 0.007-1.5 Å-1) . An increase in backbone-to-backbone distance is observed, indicating an increase in free volume between different polymer main chains. Structural characterization of the polymer segments will be discussed together with conductivity and dielectric results to better understand the ion transport mechanism in the local environment of the polymer system. Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee.

Atomistic simulation of CO2 solubility in poly(ethylene oxide) oligomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, Bingbing; Panagiotopoulos, Athanassios Z.

2014-06-01

We have performed atomistic molecular dynamics simulations coupled with thermodynamic integration to obtain the excess chemical potential and pressure-composition phase diagrams for CO2 in poly(ethylene oxide) oligomers. Poly(ethylene oxide) dimethyl ether, CH3O(CH2CH2O)nCH3 (PEO for short) is a widely applied physical solvent that forms the major organic constituent of a class of novel nanoparticle-based absorbents. Good predictions were obtained for pressure-composition-density relations for CO2 + PEO oligomers (2 ≤ n ≤ 12), using the Potoff force field for PEO [J. Chem. Phys. 136, 044514 (2012)] together with the TraPPE model for CO2 [AIChE J. 47, 1676 (2001)]. Water effects on Henry's constant of CO2 in PEO have also been investigated. Addition of modest amounts of water in PEO produces a relatively small increase in Henry's constant. Dependence of the calculated Henry's constant on the weight percentage of water falls on a temperature-dependent master curve, irrespective of PEO chain length.

Effect of ultraviolet radiation in the photo-oxidation of High Density Polyethylene and Biodegradable Polyethylene films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez-Romo, A.; González Mota, R.; Bernal, J. J. Soto; Frausto Reyes, C.; Rosales Candelas, I.

2015-01-01

One of the most widely used plastics in the world is the High density polyethylene (HDPE), it is a stable material due to its carbon-carbon bonds, causing their slow degradation; which is why we are looking for alternative ways to accelerate the degradation process of this polymer. An alternative is the addition of oxidized groups in its molecular structure, which results in the development of polymers susceptible to biodegradation (PE-BIO). In this paper, HDPE and PE-BIO films were exposed to UV-B radiation (320-280 nm) at different exposure times, 0-60 days. The effects of UV radiation in samples of HDPE and PE-BIO were characterized using infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflectance (ATR). The results show that the exposed materials undergo changes in their molecular structure, due to the infrared bands formed which corresponds to the photo-oxidation of HDPE and PE films when submitted to UV-B radiation.

Poly(ethylene oxide) surfactant polymers.

PubMed

Vacheethasanee, Katanchalee; Wang, Shuwu; Qiu, Yongxing; Marchant, Roger E

2004-01-01

We report on a series of structurally well-defined surfactant polymers that undergo surface-induced self-assembly on hydrophobic biomaterial surfaces. The surfactant polymers consist of a poly(vinyl amine) backbone with poly(ethylene oxide) and hexanal pendant groups. The poly(vinyl amine) (PVAm) was synthesized by hydrolysis of poly(N-vinyl formamide) following free radical polymerization of N-vinyl formamide. Hexanal and aldehyde-terminated poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) were simultaneously attached to PVAm via reductive amination. Surfactant polymers with different PEO:hexanal ratios and hydrophilic/hydrophobic balances were prepared, and characterized by FT-IR, 1H-NMR and XPS spectroscopies. Surface active properties at the air/water interface were determined by surface tension measurements. Surface activity at a solid surface/water interface was demonstrated by atomic force microscopy, showing epitaxially molecular alignment for surfactant polymers adsorbed on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite. The surfactant polymers described in this report can be adapted for simple non-covalent surface modification of biomaterials and hydrophobic surfaces to provide highly hydrated interfaces.

Identification and quantification of odours from oxobiodegradable polyethylene oxidised under a free radical flow by headspace solid-phase microextraction followed by gas chromatography-olfactometry-mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Wrona, Magdalena; Vera, Paula; Pezo, Davinson; Nerín, Cristina

2017-09-01

Recently oxobiodegradable polyethylene gained popularity as food packaging material due to its potential to reduce polymer waste. However, this type of material can release after its oxidation off-odour compounds that affect the organoleptic properties of packaged food. Odour compounds released from both polyethylene and oxobiodegradable polyethylene before and after oxidation under a free radicals flow were investigated after 1 day, 2 days and 3 days of oxidation. The samples were analysed using headspace solid phase microextraction followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and headspace solid phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography-olfactometry-mass spectrometry. Sixty-two different odorous compounds were identified. 4-methylthio-2-butanone (fruit), nonanal (fat) and 3,6-nonadienal (fat) were present in different materials before oxidation. Multiple headspace-solid phase microextraction has been used to quantify all analytes. The most abundant compound was (Z)-3-hexenyl hexanoate with a concentration range between 1.5791±0.1387µg/g and 4.8181±0.3123µg/g. Compounds such as 2-dodecenal, 2-octenal, 2-pentanol, 3-nonenal, 3,6-nonadienal, ethyl 3-methylbutanoate, ethyl octenoate, hexanone, isopropyl hexanoate, octanal were below their LOD evaluated using MS detector; however, they were detected by gas chromatography-olfactometry. The minimum LOD and LOQ were 0.011µg/g and 0.036µg/g, respectively. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Water and UV degradable lactic acid polymers

DOEpatents

Bonsignore, P.V.; Coleman, R.D.

1994-11-01

A water and UV light degradable copolymer of monomers of lactic acid and a modifying monomer were selected from the class consisting of ethylene and polyethylene glycols, propylene and polypropylene glycols, P-dioxanone, 1,5 dioxepan-2-one, 1,4 -oxathialan-2-one, 1,4-dioxide and mixtures. These copolymers are useful for waste disposal and agricultural purposes. Also disclosed is a water degradable blend of polylactic acid or modified polylactic acid and high molecular weight polyethylene oxide where the high molecular weight polyethylene oxide is present in the range of from about 2% by weight to about 50% by weight, suitable for films. A method of applying an active material selected from the class of seeds, seedlings, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and mixtures to an agricultural site is also disclosed.

Water and UV degradable lactic acid polymers

DOEpatents

Bonsignore, Patrick V.; Coleman, Robert D.

1994-01-01

A water and UV light degradable copolymer of monomers of lactic acid and a modifying monomer selected from the class consisting of ethylene and polyethylene glycols, propylene and polypropylene glycols, P-dioxanone, 1,5 dioxepan-2-one, 1,4 -oxathialan-2-one, 1,4-dioxide and mixtures thereof. These copolymers are useful for waste disposal and agricultural purposes. Also disclosed is a water degradable blend of polylactic acid or modified polylactic acid and high molecular weight polyethylene oxide wherein the high molecular weight polyethylene oxide is present in the range of from about 2% by weight to about 50% by weight, suitable for films. A method of applying an active material selected from the class of seeds, seedlings, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and mixtures thereof to an agricultural site is also disclosed.

Analysis of polyethylene wear debris using micro-Raman spectroscopy: a report on the presence of beta-carotene.

PubMed

Hahn, D W; Wolfarth, D L; Parks, N L

1997-04-01

This paper describes micro-Raman spectroscopy of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene wear debris isolated from revised knee replacements. The novel application of micro-Raman spectroscopy to the analysis of in vivo-generated wear debris was used to evaluate the chemical nature of individual, retrieved polyethylene particles. The analysis revealed the presence of beta-carotene on particles from both synovial fluid and tissue samples. Raman analysis of retrieved polyethylene tibial inserts also revealed localized beta-carotene signals within the primary wear region. In this paper, a mechanism is suggested that may account for the coupling of beta-carotene and polyethylene wear debris. We also discuss the origin of beta-carotene within the implanted joint and the implications that beta-carotene, an anti-oxidant, has for the overall host response to polyethylene orthopedic components.

21 CFR 172.260 - Oxidized polyethylene.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) FOOD ADDITIVES PERMITTED FOR DIRECT ADDITION TO FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION... polyethylene has a minimum number average molecular weight of 1,200, as determined by high temperature vapor pressure osmometry; contains a maximum of 5 percent by weight of total oxygen; and has an acid value of 9...

Shear and elongational rheology of photo-oxidative degraded HDPE and LLDPE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wagner, Manfred Hermann; Zheng, Wang; Wang, Peng; Talamante, Sebastián Ramos; Narimissa, Esmaeil

2017-05-01

The effect of photo-oxidative degradation of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) was investigated by linear and non-linear rheological measurements. The linear-viscoelastic rheological measurements were performed at different temperatures, while the elongational viscosity was measured at 170°C and at different strain rates. The rheological data are indicative of structural changes caused by photo-oxidative degradation including formation of long-chain branches (LCB), cross-linking, and chain scission, and they revealed a cyclic and continuing competition between chain scission and LCB/gel formation. These findings are supported by additional FTIR measurements and direct measurements of the gel content of the degraded samples.

Transparent and conductive polyethylene oxide film by the introduction of individualized single-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Jung, Yong Chae; Muramatsu, Hiroyuki; Park, Ki Chul; Shimamoto, Daisuke; Kim, Jin Hee; Hayashi, Takuya; Song, Sung Moo; Kim, Yoong Ahm; Endo, Morinobu; Dresselhaus, Mildred S

2009-12-16

It is demonstrated that an optically transparent and electrically conductive polyethylene oxide (PEO) film is fabricated by the introduction of individualized single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). The incorporated SWNTs in the PEO film sustain their intrinsic electronic and optical properties and, in addition, the intrinsic properties of the polymer matrix are retained. The individualized SWNTs with smaller diameter provide high transmittance as well as good electrical conductivity in PEO films. Copyright © 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Spectrofluorimetric determination of hydrogen peroxide with 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde salicyloylhydrazone (HNSH) as the substrate for horseradish peroxidase (HRP).

PubMed

Tang, Bo; Wang, Yan; Sun, Ying; Shen, Han Xi

2002-01-01

The oxidation reaction of HNSH with H2O2 under the catalysis of HRP was studied in detail. The possible reaction mechanism was discussed. Under optimum experimental conditions, the oxidized product of HNSH had excitation and emission maxima at 296 and 414 nm, respectively. A study to prove the existence of -O-O-H in polyethylene glycols was carried out. The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of -O-O-H in polyethylene glycols.

Molecular dynamics simulation study of hydrogen bonding in aqueous poly(ethylene oxide) solutions.

PubMed

Smith, G D; Bedrov, D; Borodin, O

2000-12-25

A molecular dynamics simulation study of hydrogen bonding in poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)/water solutions was performed. PEO-water and water-water hydrogen bonding manifested complex dependence on both composition and temperature. Strong water clustering in concentrated solutions was seen. Saturation of hydrogen bonding at w(p) approximately equal to 0.5 and a dramatic decrease in PEO-water hydrogen bonding with increasing temperature, consistent with experimentally observed closed-loop phase behavior, were observed. Little tendency toward intermolecular bridging of PEO chains by water molecules was seen.

Synthesis of cobalt stearate as oxidant additive for oxo-biodegradable polyethylene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asriza, Ristika O.; Arcana, I. Made

2015-09-01

Cobalt stearate is an oxidant additives that can initiate a process of degradation in high density polyethylene (HDPE). To determine the effect of cobalt stearate in HDPE, oxo-biodegradable polyethylene film was given an irradiation with UV light or heating at various temperature. After given a heating, the FTIR spectra showed a new absorption peak at wave number 1712 cm-1 indicating the presence of carbonyl groups in polymers, whereas after irradiation with UV light is not visible the presence of this absorption peak. The increase concentration of cobalt stearate added in HDPE and the higher heating temperature, the intensity of the absorption peak of the carbonyl group increased. The increasing intensity of the carbonyl group absorption is caused the presence of damage in the film surface after heating, and this result is supported by analysis the surface properties of the film with using SEM. Biodegradation tests were performed on oxo-biodegradable polyethylene film which has been given heating or UV light with using activated sludge under optimal conditions the growth of microorganisms. After biodegradation, the maximum weight decreased by 23% in the oxo-biodegradable polyethylene film with a cobalt stearate concentration of 0.2% and after heating at a temperature of 75 °C for 10 days, and only 0.69% in the same film after irradiation UV light for 10 days. Based on the results above, cobalt stearate additive is more effective to initiate the oxidative degradation of HDPE when it is initiated by heating compared to irradiation with UV light.

Synthesis of cobalt stearate as oxidant additive for oxo-biodegradable polyethylene

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Asriza, Ristika O.; Arcana, I Made, E-mail: arcana@chem.itb.ac.id

Cobalt stearate is an oxidant additives that can initiate a process of degradation in high density polyethylene (HDPE). To determine the effect of cobalt stearate in HDPE, oxo-biodegradable polyethylene film was given an irradiation with UV light or heating at various temperature. After given a heating, the FTIR spectra showed a new absorption peak at wave number 1712 cm{sup −1} indicating the presence of carbonyl groups in polymers, whereas after irradiation with UV light is not visible the presence of this absorption peak. The increase concentration of cobalt stearate added in HDPE and the higher heating temperature, the intensity of themore » absorption peak of the carbonyl group increased. The increasing intensity of the carbonyl group absorption is caused the presence of damage in the film surface after heating, and this result is supported by analysis the surface properties of the film with using SEM. Biodegradation tests were performed on oxo-biodegradable polyethylene film which has been given heating or UV light with using activated sludge under optimal conditions the growth of microorganisms. After biodegradation, the maximum weight decreased by 23% in the oxo-biodegradable polyethylene film with a cobalt stearate concentration of 0.2% and after heating at a temperature of 75 °C for 10 days, and only 0.69% in the same film after irradiation UV light for 10 days. Based on the results above, cobalt stearate additive is more effective to initiate the oxidative degradation of HDPE when it is initiated by heating compared to irradiation with UV light.« less

Infrared analysis of polyethylene wear specimens using attenuated total reflection spectroscopy. [effects of radiation on the surface properties of materials for total joint protheses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, W. R.; Lauer, J. L.

1979-01-01

Attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy was used to analyze ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene wear test specimens. Three different specimens were analyzed. One specimen was gamma irradiated to a dose of 5.0 MRad, another to a dose of 2.5 MRad, and the final specimen was unirradiated. There was no conclusive evidence of chemical changes (i.e., unsaturation or oxidation) in the surface regions of any of the polyethylene samples. Therefore, it was concluded that the gamma irradiation sterilization procedure shoud not alter the boundary lubricating properties of the polyethylene.

Effect of acid on the aggregation of poly(ethylene xide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) block copolymers.

PubMed

Yang, Bin; Guo, Chen; Chen, Shu; Ma, Junhe; Wang, Jing; Liang, Xiangfeng; Zheng, Lily; Liu, Huizhou

2006-11-23

The acid effect on the aggregation of poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) block copolymers EO(20)PO(70)EO(20) has been investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), particle size analyzer (PSA), Fourier transformed infrared, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The critical micellization temperature for Pluronic P123 in different HCl aqueous solutions increases with the increase of acid concentration. Additionally, the hydrolysis degradation of PEO blocks is observed in strong acid concentrations at higher temperatures. When the acid concentration is low, TEM and PSA show the increase of the micelle mean diameter and the decrease of the micelle polydispersity at room temperature, which demonstrate the extension of EO corona and tendency of uniform micelle size because of the charge repulsion. When under strong acid conditions, the aggregation of micelles through the protonated water bridges was observed.

Interrelation of electret properties of polyethylene foam from the method of cross-linking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gilmanov, I. R.; Galikhanov, M. F.; Gilmanova, A. R.

2017-09-01

The electret properties of chemically cross-linked polyethylene foam and physically cross-linked polyethylene foam have been studied. It has been shown that chemically cross-linked polyethylene foam has higher surface potential, effective surface charge density and electric field strength compared to physically bonded polyethylene foam. This is due to the presence of molecules and fragments of dicumyl peroxide, which can play the role of traps for injection charge carriers, a greater degree of cross-linking and with the oxidation of polyethylene, which occurs during irradiation during physical cross-linking. When the foam is deformed, its electret properties are reduced, and when the volume is relaxed, they are restored. This is due to the partial mutual compensation of homo- and heterocharge during compression and the return of the structure of the gas-filled polymer to its former position when the load is removed.

Storage stability of screwpress-extracted oils and residual meals from CELSS candidate oilseed crops

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stephens, S. D.; Watkins, B. A.; Nielsen, S. S.

1997-01-01

The efficacy of using screwpress extraction for oil was studied with three Controlled Ecological Life-Support System (CELSS) candidate oilseed crops (soybean, peanut, and canola), since use of volatile organic solvents for oil extraction likely would be impractical in a closed system. Low oil yields from initial work indicated that a modification of the process is necessary to increase extraction efficiency. The extracted oil from each crop was tested for stability and sensory characteristics. When stored at 23 degC, canola oil and meal were least stable to oxidative rancidity, whereas peanut oil and meal were least stable to hydrolytic rancidity. When stored at 65 degC, soybean oil and canola meal were least stable to oxidative rancidity, whereas peanut oil and meal were least stable to hydrolytic rancidity. Sensory evaluation of the extracted oils used in bread and salad dressing indicated that flavor, odor intensity, acceptability, and overall preference may be of concern for screwpress-extracted canola oil when it is used in an unrefined form. Overall results with screwpress-extracted crude oils indicated that soybean oil may be more stable and acceptable than canola or peanut under typical storage conditions.

Radiation sterilization of medical devices. Effects of ionizing radiation on ultra-high molecular-weight polyethylene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buchalla, R.; Schüttler, C.; Bögl, K. W.

1995-02-01

Sterilization by ionizing radiation has become, next to ethylene oxide treament, the most important "cold" sterilization process for medical devices made from plastics. The effects of ionizing radiation on the most important polymer for medical devices, ultra-high molecular-weight polyethylene, are briefly described in this review.

21 CFR 172.820 - Polyethylene glycol (mean molecular weight 200-9,500).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ethylene oxide and water with a mean molecular weight of 200 to 9,500. (2) It contains no more than 0.2 percent total by weight of ethylene and diethylene glycols when tested by the analytical methods... the total ethylene and diethylene glycol content of polyethylene glycols having mean molecular weights...

Membranes of Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity (PIM-1) Modified by Poly(ethylene glycol).

PubMed

Bengtson, Gisela; Neumann, Silvio; Filiz, Volkan

2017-06-05

Until now, the leading polymer of intrinsic microporosity PIM-1 has become quite famous for its high membrane permeability for many gases in gas separation, linked, however, to a rather moderate selectivity. The combination with the hydrophilic and low permeable poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and poly(ethylene oxides) (PEO) should on the one hand reduce permeability, while on the other hand enhance selectivity, especially for the polar gas CO₂ by improving the hydrophilicity of the membranes. Four different paths to combine PIM-1 with PEG or poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(propylene oxide) (PPO) were studied: physically blending, quenching of polycondensation, synthesis of multiblock copolymers and synthesis of copolymers with PEO/PPO side chain. Blends and new, chemically linked polymers were successfully formed into free standing dense membranes and measured in single gas permeation of N₂, O₂, CO₂ and CH₄ by time lag method. As expected, permeability was lowered by any substantial addition of PEG/PEO/PPO regardless the manufacturing process and proportionally to the added amount. About 6 to 7 wt % of PEG/PEO/PPO added to PIM-1 halved permeability compared to PIM-1 membrane prepared under similar conditions. Consequently, selectivity from single gas measurements increased up to values of about 30 for CO₂/N₂ gas pair, a maximum of 18 for CO₂/CH₄ and 3.5 for O₂/N₂.

Surface Plasmon Resonance Study of the Binding of PEO-PPO-PEO Triblock Copolymer and PEO Homopolymer to Supported Lipid Bilayers.

PubMed

Kim, Mihee; Vala, Milan; Ertsgaard, Christopher T; Oh, Sang-Hyun; Lodge, Timothy P; Bates, Frank S; Hackel, Benjamin J

2018-06-12

Poloxamer 188 (P188), a poly(ethylene oxide)- b-poly(propylene oxide)- b-poly(ethylene oxide) triblock copolymer, protects cell membranes against various external stresses, whereas poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO; 8600 g/mol) homopolymer lacks protection efficacy. As part of a comprehensive effort to elucidate the protection mechanism, we used surface plasmon resonance (SPR) to obtain direct evidence of binding of the polymers onto supported lipid bilayers. Binding kinetics and coverage of P188 and PEO were examined and compared. Most notably, PEO exhibited membrane association comparable to that of P188, evidenced by comparable association rate constants and coverage. This result highlights the need for additional mechanistic understanding beyond simple membrane association to explain the differential efficacy of P188 in therapeutic applications.

New Aptes Cross-linked Polymers from Poly(ethylene oxide)s and Cyanuric Chloride for Lithium Batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tigelaar, Dean M.; Meador, Mary Ann B.; Kinder, James D.; Bennett, William R.

2005-01-01

A new series of polymer electrolytes for use as membranes for lithium batteries are described. Electrolytes were made by polymerization between cyanuric chloride and diamino-terminated poly(ethylene oxide)s, followed by cross-linking via a sol-gel process. Thermal analysis and lithium conductivity of freestanding polymer films were studied. The effects of several variables on conductivity were investigated, such as length of backbone PEO chain, length of branching PEO chain, extent of branching, extent of cross-linking, salt content, and salt counterion. Polymer films with the highest percentage of PEO were found to be the most conductive, with a maximum lithium conductivity of 3.9 x 10(exp -5) S/cm at 25 C. Addition of plasticizer to the dry polymers increased conductivity by an order of magnitude.

Morphology of Thermally Degraded PU and Irradiated PE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harris, Douglas; Gillen, Kenneth; Celina, Mathias; Assink, Roger

2001-03-01

Several 1H and 13C NMR techniques have been applied to study the morphology and chemical structure of thermally degraded polyurethane rubber and irradiated polyethylene cable insulation. The combination of heat and presence of air results in oxidation of the hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene/isophorone diisocyanate polyurethane and the gel content increases. The oxidation is inhomogeneous: pristine regions remain with a length scale of approximately 20 nm. The morphology and oxidation products were characterized by 1H spin diffusion with 13C detection. In addition, dynamics were probed with 1H and 2D WISE experiments. Radiation of cross-linked polyethylene cable insulation obeys anomalous aging behavior where lower temperature can result in a greater loss in ultimate tensile elongation. Annealing of the irradiated polyethylene allows significant recovery of mechanical properties. Analysis of 13C NMR data was used to study this "Lazarus effect" and the inverse temperature relationship. Sandia is a multiprogram laboratory operated by Sandia Corporation, a Lockheed Martin Company, for the United States Department of Energy under Contract DE-AC04-94AL8500.

Recyclable magnetic nanocluster crosslinked with poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(2-vinyl-4,4-dimethylazlactone) copolymer for adsorption with antibody.

PubMed

Prai-In, Yingrak; Boonthip, Chatchai; Rutnakornpituk, Boonjira; Wichai, Uthai; Montembault, Véronique; Pascual, Sagrario; Fontaine, Laurent; Rutnakornpituk, Metha

2016-10-01

Surface modification of magnetic nanoparticle (MNP) with poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(2-vinyl-4,4-dimethylazlactone) (PEO-b-PVDM) diblock copolymers and its application as recyclable magnetic nano-support for adsorption with antibody were reported herein. PEO-b-PVDM copolymers were first synthesized via a reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) polymerization using poly(ethylene oxide) chain-transfer agent as a macromolecular chain transfer agent to mediate the RAFT polymerization of VDM. They were then grafted on amino-functionalized MNP by coupling with some azlactone rings of the PVDM block to form magnetic nanoclusters with tunable cluster size. The nanocluster size could be tuned by adjusting the chain length of the PVDM block. The nanoclusters were successfully used as efficient and recyclable nano-supports for adsorption with anti-rabbit IgG antibody. They retained higher than 95% adsorption of the antibody during eight adsorption-separation-desorption cycles, indicating the potential feasibility in using this novel hybrid nanocluster as recyclable support in cell separation applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comblike poly(ethylene oxide)/hydrophobic C6 branched chitosan surfactant polymers as anti-infection surface modifying agents.

PubMed

Mai-ngam, Katanchalee

2006-05-01

A series of structurally well-defined poly(ethylene oxide)/hydrophobic C6 branched chitosan surfactant polymers that undergo surface induced self assembly on hydrophobic biomaterial surfaces were synthesized and characterized. The surfactant polymers consist of low molecular weight (Mw) chitosan backbone with hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and hydrophobic hexyl pendant groups. Chitosan was depolymerized by nitrous acid deaminative cleavage. Hexanal and aldehyde-terminated PEO chains were simultaneously attached to low Mw chitosan hydrochloride via reductive amination. The surfactant polymers were prepared with various ratios of the two side chains. The molecular composition of the surfactant polymers was determined by FT-IR and 1H NMR. Surface active properties at the air-water interface were determined by Langmuir film balance measurements. The surfactant polymers with PEO/hexyl ratios of 1:3.0 and 1:14.4 were used as surface modifying agents to investigate their anti-infection properties. E. coli adhesion on Silastic surface was decreased significantly by the surfactant polymer with PEO/hexyl 1:3.0. Surface growth of adherent E. coli was effectively suppressed by both tested surfactant polymers.

Ionic conductivity of β-cyclodextrin-polyethylene-oxide/alkali-metal-salt complex.

PubMed

Yang, Ling-Yun; Fu, Xiao-Bin; Chen, Tai-Qiang; Pan, Li-Kun; Ji, Peng; Yao, Ye-Feng; Chen, Qun

2015-04-20

Highly conductive, crystalline, polymer electrolytes, β-cyclodextrin (β-CD)-polyethylene oxide (PEO)/LiAsF6 and β-CD-PEO/NaAsF6 , were prepared through supramolecular self-assembly of PEO, β-CD, and LiAsF6 /NaAsF6 . The assembled β-CDs form nanochannels in which the PEO/X(+) (X=Li, Na) complexes are confined. The nanochannels provide a pathway for directional motion of the alkali metal ions and, at the same time, separate the cations and the anions by size exclusion. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Poly(ethylene oxide) functionalization

DOEpatents

Pratt, Russell Clayton

2014-04-08

A simple procedure is provided by which the hydroxyl termini of poly(ethylene oxide) can be appended with functional groups to a useful extent by reaction and precipitation. The polymer is dissolved in warmed toluene, treated with an excess of organic base and somewhat less of an excess of a reactive acylating reagent, reacted for several hours, then precipitated in isopropanol so that the product can be isolated as a solid, and salt byproducts are washed away. This procedure enables functionalization of the polymer while not requiring laborious purification steps such as solvent-solvent extraction or dialysis to remove undesirable side products.

Biodegradation of Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) by Mixed Culture of Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus and Aspergillus niger in Soil

PubMed Central

Esmaeili, Atefeh; Pourbabaee, Ahmad Ali; Alikhani, Hossein Ali; Shabani, Farzin; Esmaeili, Ensieh

2013-01-01

In this study, two strains of Aspergillus sp. and Lysinibacillus sp. with remarkable abilities to degrade low-density polyethylene (LDPE) were isolated from landfill soils in Tehran using enrichment culture and screening procedures. The biodegradation process was performed for 126 days in soil using UV- and non-UV-irradiated pure LDPE films without pro-oxidant additives in the presence and absence of mixed cultures of selected microorganisms. The process was monitored by measuring the microbial population, the biomass carbon, pH and respiration in the soil, and the mechanical properties of the films. The carbon dioxide measurements in the soil showed that the biodegradation in the un-inoculated treatments were slow and were about 7.6% and 8.6% of the mineralisation measured for the non-UV-irradiated and UV-irradiated LDPE, respectively, after 126 days. In contrast, in the presence of the selected microorganisms, biodegradation was much more efficient and the percentages of biodegradation were 29.5% and 15.8% for the UV-irradiated and non-UV-irradiated films, respectively. The percentage decrease in the carbonyl index was higher for the UV-irradiated LDPE when the biodegradation was performed in soil inoculated with the selected microorganisms. The percentage elongation of the films decreased during the biodegradation process. The Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to determine structural, morphological and surface changes on polyethylene. These analyses showed that the selected microorganisms could modify and colonise both types of polyethylene. This study also confirmed the ability of these isolates to utilise virgin polyethylene without pro-oxidant additives and oxidation pretreatment, as the carbon source. PMID:24086254

Biodegradation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) by mixed culture of Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus and Aspergillus niger in soil.

PubMed

Esmaeili, Atefeh; Pourbabaee, Ahmad Ali; Alikhani, Hossein Ali; Shabani, Farzin; Esmaeili, Ensieh

2013-01-01

In this study, two strains of Aspergillus sp. and Lysinibacillus sp. with remarkable abilities to degrade low-density polyethylene (LDPE) were isolated from landfill soils in Tehran using enrichment culture and screening procedures. The biodegradation process was performed for 126 days in soil using UV- and non-UV-irradiated pure LDPE films without pro-oxidant additives in the presence and absence of mixed cultures of selected microorganisms. The process was monitored by measuring the microbial population, the biomass carbon, pH and respiration in the soil, and the mechanical properties of the films. The carbon dioxide measurements in the soil showed that the biodegradation in the un-inoculated treatments were slow and were about 7.6% and 8.6% of the mineralisation measured for the non-UV-irradiated and UV-irradiated LDPE, respectively, after 126 days. In contrast, in the presence of the selected microorganisms, biodegradation was much more efficient and the percentages of biodegradation were 29.5% and 15.8% for the UV-irradiated and non-UV-irradiated films, respectively. The percentage decrease in the carbonyl index was higher for the UV-irradiated LDPE when the biodegradation was performed in soil inoculated with the selected microorganisms. The percentage elongation of the films decreased during the biodegradation process. The Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to determine structural, morphological and surface changes on polyethylene. These analyses showed that the selected microorganisms could modify and colonise both types of polyethylene. This study also confirmed the ability of these isolates to utilise virgin polyethylene without pro-oxidant additives and oxidation pretreatment, as the carbon source.

Oxidation and biodegradation of polyethylene films containing pro-oxidantadditives: Synergistic effects of sunlight exposure, thermal aging and fungal biodegradation

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Synergistic effects of sunlight exposure, thermal aging and fungal biodegradation on the oxidation and biodegradation of linear low density poly (ethylene) PE-LLD films containing pro-oxidant were examined. To achieve oxidation and degradation, films were first exposed to the sunlight for 93 days du...

Computational method for analysis of polyethylene biodegradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, Masaji; Kawai, Fusako; Shibata, Masaru; Yokoyama, Shigeo; Sudate, Yasuhiro

2003-12-01

In a previous study concerning the biodegradation of polyethylene, we proposed a mathematical model based on two primary factors: the direct consumption or absorption of small molecules and the successive weight loss of large molecules due to β-oxidation. Our model is an initial value problem consisting of a differential equation whose independent variable is time. Its unknown variable represents the total weight of all the polyethylene molecules that belong to a molecular-weight class specified by a parameter. In this paper, we describe a numerical technique to introduce experimental results into analysis of our model. We first establish its mathematical foundation in order to guarantee its validity, by showing that the initial value problem associated with the differential equation has a unique solution. Our computational technique is based on a linear system of differential equations derived from the original problem. We introduce some numerical results to illustrate our technique as a practical application of the linear approximation. In particular, we show how to solve the inverse problem to determine the consumption rate and the β-oxidation rate numerically, and illustrate our numerical technique by analyzing the GPC patterns of polyethylene wax obtained before and after 5 weeks cultivation of a fungus, Aspergillus sp. AK-3. A numerical simulation based on these degradation rates confirms that the primary factors of the polyethylene biodegradation posed in modeling are indeed appropriate.

Immobilization of natural anti-oxidants on carbon nanotubes and aging behavior of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene-based nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dintcheva, Nadka Tzankova; Arrigo, Rossella; Gambarotti, Cristian; Guenzi, Monica; Carroccio, Sabrina; Cicogna, Francesca; Filippone, Giovanni

2014-05-01

The use of natural antioxidants is an attractive way to formulate nanocomposites with extended durability and with potential applications in bio-medical field. In this work, Vitamin E (VE) in the form of α-tocopherol and Quercetin (Q) are physically immobilized on the outer surface of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Afterward, the CNTs-VE and CNTs-Q are used to formulate thermally stable ultra high molecular weight polyethylene based nanocomposites. The obtained results in the study of the thermo-oxidation behavior suggest a beneficial effect of the natural anti-oxidant carbon nanotubes systems. The unexpected excellent thermo-resistance of the nanocomposites seems to be due to a synergistic effect of the natural anti-oxidant and carbon nanotubes, i.e. strong interaction between CNT surface and anti-oxidant molecules. Particularly, these interactions cause the formation of structural defects onto outer CNT surfaces, which, in turn, increase the CNT radical scavenging activity.

Modeling Primary Atomization Processes

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-02-01

consumable , catalytic igniter has shown to provide reliable, reproducible ignition in hydrogen peroxide/polyethylene hybrid engines. Currently, a...verified in a hybrid rocket using hydrogen peroxide as oxidizer and polyethylene as fuel. The engine made use of a unique Consumable Catalytic Bed (CCB...interest to the liquid and hybrid rocket engine community. TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER Performer Customer Result Application 1 S. D. Heister Purdue University

Insulin compatibility with polymer materials used in external pump infusion systems.

PubMed

Melberg, S G; Havelund, S; Villumsen, J; Brange, J

1988-04-01

In a study designed to mimic actual user conditions for external insulin pump infusion, the insulin quality after passage through the infusion set was assessed by various analytical methods, including high performance liquid chromatography. The two infusion sets tested consisted of, firstly, a polyvinylchloride/rubber syringe and a polyvinylchloride catheter sterilized by gamma irradiation and, secondly, a polyethylene/polypropylene syringe connected to a polyethylene catheter and sterilized by ethylene oxide. The insulin solution delivered through the PVC infusion set showed a reduction of preservative to less than 30% of the initial content and increased formation of chemical transformation products of insulin varying from twice the reference level during the first day to more than three times on the third day. By contrast, the polyethylene/polypropylene infusion system showed only a minor decrease in preservative content and no increase in chemical transformation. These effects were observed irrespective of the brand of insulin and were not affected by increase of the zinc content of the insulin solution. Investigation of the influence of the sterilization methods performed on polyvinylchloride and polyethylene catheters revealed that gamma irradiated polyvinylchloride catheters were markedly harmful to the insulin solution, whereas ethylene oxide sterilization did not influence the chemical stability of insulin.

12-crown-4 ether-assisted enhancement of ionic conductivity and interfacial kinetics in polyethylene oxide electrolytes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nagasubramanian, G.; Di Stefano, S.

1990-01-01

The electrical and electrochemical properties of thin films of polyethylene oxide electrolytes with and without 12-crown-4 ether (12Cr4) are studied as a function of temperature and in the frequency regime from 100 kHz to 0.1 Hz. These measurements were made on electrolytes containing LiCF3SO3, LiBF4, or LiClO4 salts. At a given temperature, the bulk conductivity for a particular salt depends on the 12Cr4 concentration, reaching a maximum for a ratio of 12Cr4 to Li of 0.003.

Ion conducting polymers and polymer blends for alkali metal ion batteries

DOEpatents

DeSimone, Joseph M.; Pandya, Ashish; Wong, Dominica; Vitale, Alessandra

2017-08-29

Electrolyte compositions for batteries such as lithium ion and lithium air batteries are described. In some embodiments the compositions are liquid compositions comprising (a) a homogeneous solvent system, said solvent system comprising a perfluropolyether (PFPE) and polyethylene oxide (PEO); and (b) an alkali metal salt dissolved in said solvent system. In other embodiments the compositions are solid electrolyte compositions comprising: (a) a solid polymer, said polymer comprising a crosslinked product of a crosslinkable perfluropolyether (PFPE) and a crosslinkable polyethylene oxide (PEO); and (b) an alkali metal ion salt dissolved in said polymer. Batteries containing such compositions as electrolytes are also described.

Molecular dynamics simulation study of the role of evenly spaced poly(ethylene oxide) tethers on the aggregation of C60 fullerenes in water.

PubMed

Bedrov, Dmitry; Smith, Grant D; Li, Liwei

2005-06-07

The aggregation behavior of C60 fullerenes and C60 fullerenes with six symmetrically tethered poly(ethylene oxide) oligomers [(PEO)-6-C60] in aqueous solutions has been studied using implicit solvent molecular dynamics simulations. Our simulations reveal that while the attraction between two (PEO)-6-C60 fullerenes in aqueous solution is stronger and longer range than that between two bare C60 fullerenes, the (PEO)-6-C60 fullerenes do not phase-separate in water but rather aggregate in chain-like clusters at concentrations where unmodified fullerenes completely phase-separate.

Field Effect Transistor Behavior in Electrospun Polyaniline/Polyethylene Oxide Nanofibers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miranda, Felix A.; Theofylaktos, Noulle; Robinson, Daryl C.; Mueller, Carl H.; Pinto, Nicholas J.

2004-01-01

Novel translators and logic devices based on nanotechnology concepts are under intense development. The potential for ultra-low power circuitry makes nanotechnology attractive for applications such as digital electronics and sensors. Furthermore, the ability to form devices on flexible substrates expands the range of applications where electronic circuitry can be introduced. For NASA, nonotechndogy offers opportunities for increased onboard data processing and thus autonomous decision-making ability, ad novel sensors that detect and respond to external stimuli with few oversight requirements. The goat of this work is to demonstrate transistor behavior in polyaniline/ polyethylene oxide nanofibers, thus creating a foundation for future logic devices.

Poly(ethylene oxide) Chains Are Not ``Hydrophilic'' When They Exist As Polymer Brush Chains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Hoyoung; Kim, Dae Hwan; Witte, Kevin N.; Ohn, Kimberly; Choi, Je; Kim, Kyungil; Meron, Mati; Lin, Binhua; Akgun, Bulent; Satija, Sushil; Won, You-Yeon

2012-02-01

By using a combined experimental and theoretical approach, a model poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) brush system, prepared by spreading a poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PEO-PnBA) amphiphilic diblock copolymer onto an air-water interface, was investigated. The polymer segment density profiles of the PEO brush in the direction normal to the air-water interface under various grafting density conditions were determined from combined X-ray and neutron reflectivity data. In order to achieve a theoretically sound analysis of the reflectivity data, we developed a new data analysis method that uses the self-consistent field theoretical modeling as a tool for predicting expected reflectivity results for comparison with the experimental data. Using this new data analysis method, we discovered that the effective Flory-Huggins interaction parameter of the PEO brush chains is significantly greater than that corresponding to the theta condition, suggesting that contrary to what is more commonly observed for PEO in normal situations, the PEO chains are actually not ``hydrophilic'' when they exist as polymer brush chains, because of the many body interactions forced to be effective in the brush situation.

Prediction of solubility parameters and miscibility of pharmaceutical compounds by molecular dynamics simulations.

PubMed

Gupta, Jasmine; Nunes, Cletus; Vyas, Shyam; Jonnalagadda, Sriramakamal

2011-03-10

The objectives of this study were (i) to develop a computational model based on molecular dynamics technique to predict the miscibility of indomethacin in carriers (polyethylene oxide, glucose, and sucrose) and (ii) to experimentally verify the in silico predictions by characterizing the drug-carrier mixtures using thermoanalytical techniques. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed using the COMPASS force field, and the cohesive energy density and the solubility parameters were determined for the model compounds. The magnitude of difference in the solubility parameters of drug and carrier is indicative of their miscibility. The MD simulations predicted indomethacin to be miscible with polyethylene oxide and to be borderline miscible with sucrose and immiscible with glucose. The solubility parameter values obtained using the MD simulations values were in reasonable agreement with those calculated using group contribution methods. Differential scanning calorimetry showed melting point depression of polyethylene oxide with increasing levels of indomethacin accompanied by peak broadening, confirming miscibility. In contrast, thermal analysis of blends of indomethacin with sucrose and glucose verified general immiscibility. The findings demonstrate that molecular modeling is a powerful technique for determining the solubility parameters and predicting miscibility of pharmaceutical compounds. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Thiourea incorporated poly(ethylene oxide) as transparent gel polymer electrolyte for dye sensitized solar cell applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pavithra, Nagaraj; Velayutham, David; Sorrentino, Andrea; Anandan, Sambandam

2017-06-01

A new series of transparent gel polymer electrolytes are prepared by adding various weight percent of thiourea coupled with poly(ethylene oxide) for the application of dye-sensitized solar cells. Coupling of thiourea in the presence of iodine undergoes dimerization reaction to produce formamidine disulfide. Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy shows that the interactions of thiourea and formamidine disulfide with electronegative ether linkage of poly(ethylene oxide) results in conformational changes of gel polymer electrolytes. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and linear sweep voltammetry experiments reveal an increment in ionic conductivity and tri-iodide diffusion coefficient, for thiourea modified gel polymer electrolytes. Finally, the prepared electrolytes are used as a redox mediator in dye-sensitized solar cells and the photovoltaic properties were studied. Apart from transparency, the gel polymer electrolytes with thiorurea show higher photovoltaic properties compared to bare gel polymer electrolyte and a maximum photocurrent efficiency of 7.17% is achieved for gel polymer electrolyte containing 1 wt% of thiourea with a short circuit current of 11.79 mA cm-2 and open circuit voltage of 834 mV. Finally, under rear illumination, almost 90% efficiency is retained upon compared to front illumination.

High-concentration graphene dispersion stabilized by block copolymers in ethanol.

PubMed

Perumal, Suguna; Lee, Hyang Moo; Cheong, In Woo

2017-07-01

This article describes a comprehensive study for the preparation of graphene dispersions by liquid-phase exfoliation using amphiphilic diblock copolymers; poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(styrene) (PEO-b-PS), poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(4-vinylpyridine) (PEO-b-PVP), and poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(pyrenemethyl methacrylate) (PEO-b-PPy) with similar block lengths. Block copolymers were prepared from PEO using the Steglich coupling reaction followed by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Graphite platelets (G) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were used as graphene sources. The dispersion stability of graphene in ethanol was comparatively investigated by on-line turbidity, and the graphene concentration in the dispersions was determined gravimetrically. Our results revealed that the graphene dispersions with PEO-b-PVP were much more stable and included graphene with fewer defects than that with PEO-b-PS or PEO-b-PPy, as confirmed by turbidity and Raman analyses. Gravimetry confirmed that graphene concentrations up to 1.7 and 1.8mg/mL could be obtained from G and rGO dispersions, respectively, using PEO-b-PVP after one week. Distinctions in adhesion forces of PS, VP, PPy block units with graphene surface and the variation in solubility of the block copolymers in ethanol medium significantly affected the stability of the graphene dispersion. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Surface modification of polyethylene by radiation-induced grafting for adhesive bonding. V. Comparison with other surface treatments. [Gamma radiation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yamakawa, S.; Yamamoto, F.

1980-01-01

Helium gas plasma treatment of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) yields much lower peel strength than oxidative treatment using chromic acid and oxygen gas plasma. The practical adhesion, the bondability retention, and the bond durability of oxidatively treated LDPE sheets, bonded with epoxy adhesives, have been compared with those of partially hydrolyzed LDPE-methyl acrylate surface grafts. The oxidized surfaces easily lose the bondability by light rubbing with tissue paper, solvent extraction, heat aging, and artificial weathering, whereas the grafted surfaces retain the bondability. The bondability loss is due to removal of the oxidized layer, and the bondability retention is due to retentionmore » of the surface homopolymer layer. Conventional antioxidants stabilize the grafted but not the oxidized surfaces against thermal oxidative degradation. The grafted LDPE joints have much higher bond durability in humid environments than those of the oxidized LDPE joints. The dry and wet peel strengths of oxidized LDPE joints are greatly improved by application of primers consisting of a base epoxy resin and organic solvents. An adhesion mechanism involving penetration of epoxy adhesives into the oxidized layers and subsequent reinforcement of the layers by curing of the penetrated epoxy is proposed. 5 figures, 5 tables.« less

Study of the desorption of ethylene oxide fixed on various materials during sterilization by a new procedure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lacomme, M.; Chaigneau, M.; Lemoan, G.

1977-01-01

A continuous sterilization process using ethylene oxide was studied in comparison with a classical method in order to evaluate gas retention as a function of time and temperature on polyethylene, PVC, and rubber materials.

Manufacturing vegetable oil based biodiesel: An engineering management perspective

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

According to the USDA, 6.45 million tons of cottonseed was produced in 2007. Each ton will yield approximately 44 to 46 gallons unrefined oil. Cottonseed oil bio-diesel could have the potential to create a more competitive oil market for oil mills. The proposed cost model is based on an existing cot...

Micro X-Ray Computed Tomography Mass Loss Assessment of Different UHMWPE: A Hip Joint Simulator Study on Standard vs. Cross-Linked Polyethylene

PubMed Central

Zanini, Filippo; Carmignato, Simone

2017-01-01

More than 60.000 hip arthroplasty are performed every year in Italy. Although Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight-Polyethylene remains the most used material as acetabular cup, wear of this material induces over time in vivo a foreign-body response and consequently osteolysis, pain, and the need of implant revision. Furthermore, oxidative wear of the polyethylene provoke several and severe failures. To solve these problems, highly cross-linked polyethylene and Vitamin-E-stabilized polyethylene were introduced in the last years. In in vitro experiments, various efforts have been made to compare the wear behavior of standard PE and vitamin-E infused liners. In this study we compared the in vitro wear behavior of two different configurations of cross-linked polyethylene (with and without the add of Vitamin E) vs. the standard polyethylene acetabular cups. The aim of the present study was to validate a micro X-ray computed tomography technique to assess the wear of different commercially available, polyethylene’s acetabular cups after wear simulation; in particular, the gravimetric method was used to provide reference wear values. The agreement between the two methods is documented in this paper. PMID:28107468

Mid-term survivorship and clinical outcomes of cobalt-chrome and oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene.

PubMed

Petis, Stephen M; Vasarhelyi, Edward M; Lanting, Brent A; Howard, James L; Naudie, Douglas D R; Somerville, Lyndsay E; McCalden, Richard W

2016-02-01

The choice of bearing articulation for total hip arthroplasty in younger patients is amenable to debate. We compared mid-term patient-reported outcomes and survivorship across 2 different bearing articulations in a young patient cohort. We reviewed patients with cobalt-chrome or oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene who were followed prospectively between 2004 and 2012. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to determine predicted cumulative survivorship at 5 years with all-cause and aseptic revisions as the outcome. We compared patient-reported outcomes, including the Harris hip score (HHS), Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Short-form 12 (SF-12) scores. A total of 622 patients were followed during the study period. Mean follow-up was 8.2 (range 2.0-10.6) years for cobalt-chrome and 7.8 (range 2.1-10.7) years for oxidized zirconium. Mean age was 54.9 ± 10.6 years for cobalt-chrome and 54.8 ± 10.7 years for oxidized zirconium. Implant survivorship was 96.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 94.9%-97.1%) for cobalt-chrome and 98.7% (95% CI 98.0%-99.4%) for oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene for all-cause revisions, and 97.2% (95% CI 96.2%-98.2%) for cobalt-chrome and 99.0% (95% CI 98.4%-99.6%) for oxidized zirconium for aseptic revisions. An age-, sex- and diagnosis-matched comparison of the HHS, WOMAC and SF-12 scores demonstrated no significant changes in clinical outcomes across the groups. Both bearing surface couples demonstrated excellent mid-term survivorship and outcomes in young patient cohorts. Future analyses on wear and costs are warranted to elicit differences between the groups at long-term follow-up.

Maize porridge enriched with a micronutrient powder containing low-dose iron as NaFeEDTA but not amaranth grain flour reduces anemia and iron deficiency in Kenyan preschool children.

PubMed

Macharia-Mutie, Catherine W; Moretti, Diego; Van den Briel, Natalie; Omusundi, Agnes M; Mwangi, Alice M; Kok, Frans J; Zimmermann, Michael B; Brouwer, Inge D

2012-09-01

Few studies have evaluated the impact of fortification with iron-rich foods such as amaranth grain and multi-micronutrient powder (MNP) containing low doses of highly bioavailable iron to control iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in children. We assessed the efficacy of maize porridge enriched with amaranth grain or MNP to reduce IDA in Kenyan preschool children. In a 16-wk intervention trial, children (n = 279; 12-59 mo) were randomly assigned to: unrefined maize porridge (control; 4.1 mg of iron/meal; phytate:iron molar ratio 5:1); unrefined maize (30%) and amaranth grain (70%) porridge (amaranth group; 23 mg of iron/meal; phytate:iron molar ratio 3:1); or unrefined maize porridge with MNP (MNP group; 6.6 mg iron/meal; phytate:iron molar ratio 2.6:1; 2.5 mg iron as NaFeEDTA). Primary outcomes were anemia and iron status with treatment effects estimated relative to control. At baseline, 38% were anemic and 30% iron deficient. Consumption of MNP reduced the prevalence of anemia [-46% (95% CI: -67, -12)], iron deficiency [-70% (95% CI: -89, -16)], and IDA [-75% (95% CI: -92, -20)]. The soluble transferrin receptor [-10% (95% CI: -16, -4)] concentration was lower, whereas the hemoglobin (Hb) [2.7 g/L (95% CI: 0.4, 5.1)] and plasma ferritin [40% (95% CI: 10, 95)] concentrations increased in the MNP group. There was no significant change in Hb or iron status in the amaranth group. Consumption of maize porridge fortified with low-dose, highly bioavailable iron MNP can reduce the prevalence of IDA in preschool children. In contrast, fortification with amaranth grain did not improve iron status despite a large increase in iron intake, likely due to high ratio of phytic acid:iron in the meal.

Electrospun Polyaniline/Polyethylene Oxide Nanofiber Field Effect Transistor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pinto, N. J.; Johnson, A. T.; MacDiarmid, A. G.; Mueller, C. H.; Theofylaktos, N.; Robinson, D. C.; Miranda, F. A.

2003-01-01

We report on the observation of field effect transistor (FET) behavior in electrospun camphorsulfonic acid doped polyaniline(PANi)/polyethylene oxide(PE0) nanofibers. Saturation channel currents are observed at surprisingly low source/drain voltages. The hole mobility in the depletion regime is 1.4 x 10(exp -4) sq cm/V s while the 1-D charge density (at zero gate bias) is calculated to be approximately 1 hole per 50 two-ring repeat units of polyaniline, consistent with the rather high channel conductivity (approx. 10(exp -3) S/cm). Reducing or eliminating the PEO content in the fiber is expected to enhance device parameters. Electrospinning is thus proposed as a simple method of fabricating 1-D polymer FET's.

Ultrastructural investigation of intact orbital implant surfaces using atomic force microscopy.

PubMed

Choi, Samjin; Lee, Seung Jun; Shin, Jae-Ho; Cheong, Youjin; Lee, Hui-Jae; Paek, Joo Hee; Kim, Jae Sik; Jin, Kyung-Hyun; Park, Hun-Kuk

2011-01-01

This study examined the surface nanostructures of three orbital implants: nonporous poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), porous aluminum oxide and porous polyethylene. The morphological characteristics of the orbital implants surfaces were observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The AFM topography, phase shift and deflection images of the intact implant samples were obtained. The surface of the nonporous PMMA implant showed severe scratches and debris. The surface of the aluminum oxide implant showed a porous structure with varying densities and sizes. The PMMA implant showed nodule nanostructures, 215.56 ± 52.34 nm in size, and the aluminum oxide implant showed crystal structures, 730.22 ± 341.02 nm in size. The nonporous PMMA implant showed the lowest roughness compared with other implant biomaterials, followed by the porous aluminum oxide implant. The porous polyethylene implant showed the highest roughness and severe surface irregularities. Overall, the surface roughness of orbital implants might be associated with the rate of complications and cell adhesion. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Raman Spectroscopy of Novel UHMW Polyethylene-Based Nanocomposites with Nanographite and Nanoclay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prokhorov, K. A.; Sagitova, E. A.; Averin, A. A.; Nikolaeva, G. Yu; Baimova, A. V.; Novokshonova, L. A.; Brevnov, P. N.; Pashinin, P. P.

2018-04-01

We analyze the Raman spectra of nanocomposites based on ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene with nanoclay, thermoexpanded graphite, and reduced graphite oxide fillers. We discuss the potential of Raman spectroscopy for quantitative analysis of the nanocomposite structure, the influence of the fillers on the phase and conformation compositions of the polymer matrix, as well as for the monitoring of dispersion of the nanographite fillers in the nanocomposites.

Development of radiation resistant electrical cable insulations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, B. S.; Soo, P.; Mackenzie, D. R.

1994-01-01

Two new polyethylene cable insulations have been formulated for nuclear applications and have been tested under gamma radiation. Both insulations are based on low density polyethylene, one with PbO and the other with Sb2O3 as additives. The test results show that the concept of using inorganic antioxidants to retard radiation initiated oxidation (RIO) is viable. PbO is more effective than Sb2O3 in minimizing RIO.

Molecular dynamics studies of polyethylene oxide and polyethylene glycol: hydrodynamic radius and shape anisotropy.

PubMed

Lee, Hwankyu; Venable, Richard M; Mackerell, Alexander D; Pastor, Richard W

2008-08-01

A revision (C35r) to the CHARMM ether force field is shown to reproduce experimentally observed conformational populations of dimethoxyethane. Molecular dynamics simulations of 9, 18, 27, and 36-mers of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and 27-mers of polyethylene glycol (PEG) in water based on C35r yield a persistence length lambda = 3.7 A, in quantitative agreement with experimentally obtained values of 3.7 A for PEO and 3.8 A for PEG; agreement with experimental values for hydrodynamic radii of comparably sized PEG is also excellent. The exponent upsilon relating the radius of gyration and molecular weight (R(g) proportional, variantM(w)(upsilon)) of PEO from the simulations equals 0.515 +/- 0.023, consistent with experimental observations that low molecular weight PEG behaves as an ideal chain. The shape anisotropy of hydrated PEO is 2.59:1.44:1.00. The dimension of the middle length for each of the polymers nearly equals the hydrodynamic radius R(h)obtained from diffusion measurements in solution. This explains the correspondence of R(h) and R(p), the pore radius of membrane channels: a polymer such as PEG diffuses with its long axis parallel to the membrane channel, and passes through the channel without substantial distortion.

Comparison study of morphology and crystallization behavior of polyethylene and poly(ethylene oxide) on single-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Zheng, Xiaoli; Xu, Qun

2010-07-29

In this work, we provided a comparison study of morphology and crystallization behavior of polyethylene (PE) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) with assistance of supercritical CO(2). The resulting polymer/SWNT nanohybrids were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectra, wide-angle X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry. SWNT small bundles were decorated by PE lamellar crystals, forming nanohybrid "shish-kebab" (NHSK) structure, whereas SWNTs were only wrapped by a thin amorphous polymer coating in the case of PEO. The varying morphologies of the nanohybrids were found to depend on the molecular conformation and the interactions between polymer chains and SWNTs. Nonisothermal experiments showed that SWNTs provided heterogeneous nucleation sites for PE crystallization, while the NHSK structure hindered polymer chain diffusion and crystal growth. Also, SWNTs played antinucleation effect on PEO. In addition, the formation mechanism analysis indicated that PE chains preferred to form a homogeneous coating along the tube axis before proceeding to kebab crystal growth. The purpose of this work is to enlarge the area of theoretical understanding of introducing precisely hierarchical structures on carbon nanotubes, which are important for functional design in nanodevice applications.

Ionic liquid compatibility in polyethylene oxide/siloxane ion gel membranes

DOE PAGES

Kusuma, Victor A.; Macala, Megan K.; Liu, Jian; ...

2018-10-02

Ion gel films were prepared by incorporating eight commercially available ionic liquids in two different cross-linked polymer matrices to evaluate their phase miscibility, gas permeability and ionic conductivity for potential applications as gas separation membranes and solid electrolyte materials. The ionic liquids cations were 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium, 1-ethyl-3-methylpyridinium, 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium, tributylmethylphosphonium, and butyltrimethylammonium with a common anion (bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide). In addition, ionic liquids with 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium cation with acetate, dicyanamide and tetrafluoroborate counterions were evaluated. The two polymers were cross-linked poly(ethylene oxide) and cross-linked poly(ethylene oxide)/siloxane copolymer. Differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffractometry and visual observations were performed to evaluate the ion gels’ miscibility, thermal stabilitymore » and homogeneity. Ionic liquids with the least basic anion (bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide) and aromatic cations containing acidic proton (e.g. imidazolium and pyridinium) gave the most stable and miscible ion gels. Phase stability was shown to be a function of both ionic liquid content and temperature, with phase separation observed at elevated temperatures. In conclusion, gas permeability testing with carbon dioxide and nitrogen and ionic conductivity measurements confirmed that these ionic liquids increased the gas permeability and ionic conductivity of the polymers.« less

Ionic liquid compatibility in polyethylene oxide/siloxane ion gel membranes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kusuma, Victor A.; Macala, Megan K.; Liu, Jian

Ion gel films were prepared by incorporating eight commercially available ionic liquids in two different cross-linked polymer matrices to evaluate their phase miscibility, gas permeability and ionic conductivity for potential applications as gas separation membranes and solid electrolyte materials. The ionic liquids cations were 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium, 1-ethyl-3-methylpyridinium, 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium, tributylmethylphosphonium, and butyltrimethylammonium with a common anion (bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide). In addition, ionic liquids with 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium cation with acetate, dicyanamide and tetrafluoroborate counterions were evaluated. The two polymers were cross-linked poly(ethylene oxide) and cross-linked poly(ethylene oxide)/siloxane copolymer. Differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffractometry and visual observations were performed to evaluate the ion gels’ miscibility, thermal stabilitymore » and homogeneity. Ionic liquids with the least basic anion (bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide) and aromatic cations containing acidic proton (e.g. imidazolium and pyridinium) gave the most stable and miscible ion gels. Phase stability was shown to be a function of both ionic liquid content and temperature, with phase separation observed at elevated temperatures. In conclusion, gas permeability testing with carbon dioxide and nitrogen and ionic conductivity measurements confirmed that these ionic liquids increased the gas permeability and ionic conductivity of the polymers.« less

Polyethylene oxide-polytetrahydrofurane-PEDOT conducting interpenetrating polymer networks for high speed actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plesse, C.; Khaldi, A.; Wang, Q.; Cattan, E.; Teyssié, D.; Chevrot, C.; Vidal, F.

2011-12-01

In recent years, numerous studies on electro-active polymer (EAP) actuators have been reported. One promising technology is the elaboration of electronic conducting polymer-based actuators with interpenetrating polymer network (IPNs) architecture. In this study, the synthesis and characterisation of conducting IPNs for actuator applications is described. The IPNs are synthesised from polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polytetrahydrofurane (PTHF) networks in which the conducting polymer (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)) is incorporated. In a first step, PEO/PTHF IPNs were prepared via an 'in situ' process using poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate and dimethacrylate and hydroxytelechelic PTHF as starting materials. The IPN mechanical properties were examined by DMA and tensile strength tests. N-ethylmethylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (EMITFSI) swollen PEO/PTHF IPNs show ionic conductivities up to 10-3 S cm-1 at 30 °C. In a second step, the conducting IPN actuators were prepared by oxidative polymerisation of 3,4-ethylenedioxithiophene (EDOT) using FeCl3 as an oxidising agent within the PEO/PTHF IPN host matrix. The frequency response performance of the bending conducting IPN actuator was then evaluated. The resulting actuator exhibits a mechanical resonance frequency of up to 125 Hz with 0.75% strain for an applied potential of ± 5 V.

Investigation of the interaction of copper(II) oxide and electron beam irradiation crosslinkable polyethylene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bee, Soo-Tueen; Sin, Lee Tin; Ratnam, C. T.; Haraveen, K. J. S.; Tee, Tiam-Ting; Rahmat, A. R.

2015-10-01

In this study, the effects of electron beam irradiation on the properties of copper(II) oxide when added to low-density polyethylene (LDPE) blends were investigated. It was found that the addition of low loading level of copper(II) oxide (⩽2 phr) to LDPE results in significantly poorer gel content and hot set results. However, the incorporation of higher loading level of copper(II) oxide (⩾3 phr) could slightly increase the degree of crosslinking in all irradiated LDPE composites. This is due to the fact that higher amounts of copper(II) oxide could slightly induce the formation of free radicals in LDPE matrix. Besides, increasing irradiation doses was also found to gradually increase the gel content of LDPE composites by generating higher amounts of free radicals. As a consequence, these higher amounts of free radicals released in the LDPE matrix could significantly increase the degree of crosslinking. The addition of copper(II) oxide could reduce the tensile strength and fracture strain (elongation at break) of LDPE composites because of poorer interfacial adhesion effect between copper(II) oxide particles and LDPE matrix. Meanwhile, increasing irradiation doses on all copper(II) oxide added LDPE composites could marginally increase the tensile strength. In addition, increasing irradiation dose could enhance the thermal stability of LDPE composites by increasing the decomposition temperature. The oxidation induction time (OIT) analysis showed that, because of the crosslinking network in the copper(II) oxide added LDPE composites, oxidation reaction is much delayed.

Wear performance of neat and vitamin E blended highly cross-linked PE under severe conditions: The combined effect of accelerated ageing and third body particles during wear test.

PubMed

Affatato, Saverio; De Mattia, Jonathan Salvatore; Bracco, Pierangiola; Pavoni, Eleonora; Taddei, Paola

2016-12-01

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of third-body particles on the in vitro wear behaviour of three different sets of polyethylene acetabular cups after prolonged testing in a hip simulator and accelerated ageing. Vitamin E-blended, cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE_VE), cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) and conventional polyethylene (STD_PE) acetabular cups were simulator tested for two million cycles under severe conditions (i.e. by adding third-body particles to the bovine calf serum lubricant). Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared and micro-Raman spectroscopic analyses, differential scanning calorimetry, and crosslink density measurements were used to characterize the samples at a molecular level. The STD_PE cups had twice mass loss than the XLPE_VE components and four times than the XLPE samples; statistically significant differences were found between the mass losses of the three sets of cups. The observed wear trend was justified on the basis of the differences in cross-link density among the samples (XLPE>XLPE_VE>STD_PE). FTIR crystallinity profiles, bulk DSC crystallinity and surface micro-Raman crystallinity seemed to have a similar behaviour upon testing: all of them (as well as the all-trans and ortho-trans contents) revealed the most significant changes in XLPE and XLPE_VE samples. The more severe third-body wear testing conditions determined more noticeable changes in all spectroscopic markers with respect to previous tests. Unexpectedly, traces of bulk oxidation were found in both STD_PE (unirradiated) and XLPE (remelting-stabilized), which were expected to be stable to oxidation; on the contrary, XLPE_VE demonstrated a high oxidative stability in the present, highly demanding conditions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Adsorption of poly(ethylene oxide) on smectite: Effect of layer charge.

PubMed

Su, Chia-Chi; Shen, Yun-Hwei

2009-04-01

The adsorption of polymers on clay is important in many applications. However the mechanisms of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) adsorption on smectite is not well elucidated at present. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of layer charge density on the adsorption of PEO by smectite. The results indicated that both the hydrophobic interaction (between CH(2)CH(2) groups and siloxane surface) and the hydrogen bonding (between ether oxygen of PEO and structure OH of smectite) lead to PEO preferential adsorption on the surface of low-charge smectite. In addition, the delamination of low-charge smectite in water is enhanced upon PEO adsorption presumably due to the hydrophilic ether oxygen of adsorbed PEO.

Water and UV degradable lactic acid polymers

DOEpatents

Bonsignore, Patrick V.; Coleman, Robert D.

1996-01-01

A water and UV light degradable copolymer of monomers of lactic acid and a modifying monomer selected from the class consisting of ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, P-dioxanone, 1,5 dioxepan-2-one, 1,4-oxathialan-2-one, 1,4-dioxide and mixtures thereof. These copolymers are useful for waste disposal and agricultural purposes. Also disclosed is a water degradable blend of polylactic acid or modified polylactic acid and high molecular weight polyethylene oxide wherein the high molecular weight polyethylene oxide is present in the range of from about 2 by weight to about 50% by weight, suitable for films. A method of applying an active material selected from the class of seeds, seedlings, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and mixtures thereof to an agricultural site is also disclosed.

Investigation of Tb 3+ ion fluorescence properties in γ-irradiated poly(ethylene oxide)-TbCl 3 blended systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Myung D.; Okamoto, Yoshiyuki

1995-05-01

Degradation of polymers by γ-irradiation using Tb 3+ ion as a fluorescence probe was investigated. When poly(ethylene oxide) blended with TbCl 3 films were γ-irradiated in air, the fluorescence intensity of Tb 3+ was found to be greatly increased and the molecular weights of PEO were decreased. These results suggest that radiolysis caused chain degradation of PEO and produced carbonyl groups at the end of the cleaved polymer chain. The chromophore moiety produced transfers energy to Tb 3+ ion located within the non-irradiative energy trasfer distance. It is suggested that blended films of PEO with Tb 3+ may be used as convenient and fast detectors of γ-irradiation doses.

Ethylene-Propylene Terpolymer Rubber Processing by Electron Beam Irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manaila, Elena N.; Zuga, Maria Daniela T.; Martin, Diana I.; Craciun, Gabriela D.; Ighigeanu, Daniel I.; Matei, Constantin I.

2007-04-01

The investigations on the cross-linking by accelerated electrons of 6.23 MeV in lowly unsaturated elastomers of EPDM (ethylene-propylene terpolymer rubber) type are presented. Two rubber blends based EPDM were prepared and irradiated at different doses up to 250kGy: blend A - based on EPDM maleinized with polyethylene, zinc oxide, plasticizers, filler, and blend B - based on EPDM / PE (50 % EPDM and 50% polyethylene). Blends were prepared on a laboratory electrically heated rubber mill at temperatures of 150-160°C to enable the polyethylene (PE) melting to be reached. Plates of 150 × 150 × 2 mm were obtained in a laboratory electrical press at 170°C.

The role of black rice (Oryza sativa L.) in the control of hypercholesterolemia in rats.

PubMed

Salgado, Jocelem Mastrodi; Oliveira, Anderson Giovanni Candido de; Mansi, Débora Niero; Donado-Pestana, Carlos M; Bastos, Candido Ricardo; Marcondes, Fernanda Klein

2010-12-01

Cardiovascular disease is a serious public health problem; it is the first "cause of death" in Brazil and in developed countries. Thus, it is essential to search for alternative sources such as some functional foods to prevent and control the risks of this disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the lipidemic parameters in hypercholesterolemic rats fed diets containing black rice variety IAC 600 or unrefined rice. Adult male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus var. albinos) were used, weighing about 200-220 g. The animals were divided into four groups: the first received a control casein diet, the second received hypercholesterolemic diet, and the other two groups, after induction of hypercholesterolemia, received the test diets, the first containing 20% black rice and the second 20% unrefined, for 30 days. It was observed that diet containing black rice reduced the level of plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein. For high-density lipoprotein values, the diet that provided an increase in the levels was the black rice. The diet containing black rice was more effective in controlling the lipidemia in rats compared with the whole rice diet.

Occurrence of 3-MCPD and glycidyl esters in edible oils in the United States.

PubMed

MacMahon, Shaun; Begley, Timothy H; Diachenko, Gregory W

2013-01-01

Fatty acid esters of 3-monochloropropanediol (3-MCPD) and glycidol are processing contaminants found in a wide range of edible oils. While both 3 MCPD and glycidol have toxicological properties that at present has concerns for food safety, the published occurrence data are limited. Occurrence information is presented for the concentrations of 3-MCPD and glycidyl esters in 116 retail and/or industrial edible oils and fats using LC-MS/MS analysis of intact esters. The concentrations for bound 3-MCPD ranged from below the limit of quantitation (

Coarse grained study of pluronic F127: Comparison with shorter co-polymers in its interaction with lipid bilayers and self-aggregation in water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wood, I.; Martini, M. F.; Albano, J. M. R.; Cuestas, M. L.; Mathet, V. L.; Pickholz, M.

2016-04-01

The aim of this work is to understand the interactions of the poloxamer Pluronic F127, with lipid bilayers and its ability to self-associate in an aqueous environment. Molecular dynamics simulations at the coarse-grain scale were performed to address the behavior of single Pluronic F127 and shorter poloxamers unimers in palmitoyl-oleoyl-phosphatidyl-choline model membranes. According to the initial conditions and the poly-ethylene oxide/poly-propylene oxide composition, in water phase the unimer chain collapses into a coil conformation or adopts an interphacial U-shaped - or membrane spanning - distribution. A combination of poly-propylene oxide length, and the poly-ethylene oxide ability to cover poly-propylene oxide, is determinant for the conformation adopted by the unimer in each phase. Results of the simulations showed molecular evidence of strong interaction between Pluronic F127 and model membranes both in stable U-shaped and span conformations. The knowledge of this interaction could contribute to improve drug permeation. Additionally, we investigated the aggregation of one hundred Pluronic F127 unimers in water forming a micelle-like structure, suitable to be used as drug delivery system models.

Effects of UV Aging on the Cracking of Titanium Oxide Layer on Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Substrate: Preprint

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Chao; Gray, Matthew H.; Tirawat, Robert

Thin oxide and metal films deposited on polymer substrates is an emerging technology for advanced reflectors for concentrated solar power applications, due to their unique combination of light weight, flexibility and inexpensive manufacture. Thus far, there is little knowledge on the mechanical integrity or structural persistence of such multi-layer thin film systems under long-term environmental aging. In this paper, the cracking of a brittle titanium dioxide layer deposited onto elasto-plastic poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate is studied through a combination of experiment and modeling. In-situ fragmentation tests have been conducted to monitor the onset and evolution of cracks both on pristinemore » and on samples aged with ultraviolet (UV) light. An analytical model is presented to simulate the cracking behavior and to predict the effects of UV aging. Based on preliminary experimental observation, the effect of aging is divided into three aspects and analyzed independently: mechanical property degradation of the polymer substrate; degradation of the interlayer between substrate and oxide coating; and internal stress-induced cracks on the oxide coating.« less

Combined effects of microwaves, electron beams and polyfunctional monomers on rubber vulcanization.

PubMed

Manaila, Elena; Martin, Diana; Stelescu, Daniela Zuga; Craciun, Gabriela; Ighigeanu, Daniel; Matei, Constantin

2009-01-01

This paper presents comparative results obtained by conventional vulcanization with benzoyl peroxide (CV-BP), separate electron beam vulcanization (EB-V) and simultaneous electron beam and microwave vulcanization (EB+MW-V) applied to two kind of rubber samples: EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) rubber-sample (EVA-sample) and EPDM (ethylene-propylene terpolymer) rubber-sample (EPDM-sample). The EVA-samples contain 61.54% EVA Elvax 260, 30.77% carbon black, 1.85% TAC (triallylcyanurate) polyfunctional monomer and 5.84% filler (zinc oxide, stearic acid, polyethylene glycol and antioxidant). The EPDM-samples contain 61.54% EPDM Nordel 4760, 30.77% carbon black, 1.85% TMPT (trimethylopropane trimethacrylate) polyfunctional monomer and 5.84% filler (zinc oxide, stearic acid, polyethylene glycol and antioxidant). The rubber samples designed for different vulcanization methods were obtained from raw rubber mixtures, as compressed sheets of 2 mm in the polyethylene foils to minimize oxidation. For EB and EB + MW treatments the sheets were cut in rectangular shape 0.15 x 0.15 m2. The physical properties of samples obtained by CV-BP EV-Vand EB + MW-V methods were evaluated by measuring the tearing strength, residual elongation, elongation at break, tensile strength, 300% modulus, 100% modulus, elasticity and hardness. The obtained results demonstrate an improvement of rubber several properties obtained by EB and EB + MW processing as compared to classical procedure using benzoyl peroxide.

Electrospun-sodiumtetrafluoroborate-polyethylene oxide membranes for solvent-free sodium ion transport in solid state sodium ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freitag, K. M.; Walke, P.; Nilges, T.; Kirchhain, H.; Spranger, R. J.; van Wüllen, L.

2018-02-01

Electrospinning is used to fabricate sodium ion conducting fiber membranes composed of polyethylene oxide (PEO), sodium tetrafluoroborate (NaBF4), and succinonitrile (SN) as plasticizer. As compared to conventionally prepared lithium electrolyte membranes with identical composition (PEO:SN:LiBF4), those membranes exhibit conductivities up to 10-4 S cm-1 at 328 K (activation energy ∼36 kJ mol-1, 36:8:1 membrane), which favors such systems as a solid-state electrolyte alternative for batteries. The conduction mechanism is evaluated and the ion mobility are examined. We identified the segment mobility of the polyethylene oxide as the main driving force for the enhanced ion mobility in the membranes. The introduction of SN has only a minor influence on the conductivity and segment mobility at room temperature, but extents the anion and cation mobility to temperatures below ambient. For the 36:8:1 (PEO:SN:NaBF4) membrane we found the highest ion mobility of all membranes under investigation. A comparison of the present sodium membranes with lithium systems of the same composition shows that the overall performance of the sodium systems is comparable. Taking plasticizer-free sodium membranes into account they perform even better than the lithium containing counterparts, and plasticizer-modified membranes show only half an order of magnitude lower conductivities than comparable lithium ones.

Evaluating the suitability of highly cross-linked and remelted materials for use in posterior stabilized knees.

PubMed

Huot, J Caitlin; Van Citters, Douglas W; Currier, John H; Currier, Barbara H; Mayor, Michael B; Collier, John P

2010-11-01

Posterior stabilized (PS) knee designs are a popular choice for cruciate sacrificing knee arthroplasty procedures. The introduction of PS inserts fabricated from highly cross-linked and remelted Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) has recently generated concern as these materials have been shown to possess reduced mechanical properties. This study investigated whether highly cross-linked and remelted UHMWPE material (referred to as XRP) can be expected to perform similarly to historical gamma-air polyethylene, which has suffered few reported incidences of tibial post failure. Never-implanted gamma-air PS tibial inserts shelf-aged 14 years were examined and compared to XRP materials. Evaluation of oxidation levels, impact toughness, and fatigue strength demonstrated never-implanted gamma-air PS tibial inserts to possess nonuniform mechanical properties. Despite severe oxidation along the exterior of gamma-air tibial posts, comparatively low oxidation levels at the center of the tibial posts corresponded to sufficiently high mechanical properties. XRP material (75 kGy) showed superior impact toughness over shelf aged gamma-air material; however, tibial post fatigue testing demonstrated XRP material (100 kGy) to be less resistant to fatigue failure than historical gamma-air material. Results from this study indicate that XRP materials (100 kGy) may demonstrate an inferior resistance to tibial post failure than historical polyethylene. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Polymeric micellar pH-sensitive drug delivery system for doxorubicin.

PubMed

Hrubý, Martin; Konák, Cestmír; Ulbrich, Karel

2005-03-02

A novel polymeric micellar pH-sensitive system for delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) is described. Polymeric micelles were prepared by self-assembly of amphiphilic diblock copolymers in aqueous solutions. The copolymers consist of a biocompatible hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) block and a hydrophobic block containing covalently bound anthracycline antibiotic DOX. The starting block copolymers poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(allyl glycidyl ether) (PEO-PAGE) with a very narrow molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn ca. 1.05) were prepared by anionic ring opening polymerization using sodium salt of poly(ethylene oxide) monomethyl ether as macroinitiator and allyl glycidyl ether as functional monomer. The copolymers were covalently modified via reactive double bonds by the addition of methyl sulfanylacetate. The resulting ester subsequently reacted with hydrazine hydrate yielding polymer hydrazide. The hydrazide was coupled with DOX yielding pH-sensitive hydrazone bonds between the drug and carrier. The resulting conjugate containing ca. 3 wt.% DOX forms micelles with Rh(a)=104 nm in phosphate-buffered saline. After incubation in buffers at 37 degrees C DOX was released faster at pH 5.0 (close to pH in endosomes; 43% DOX released within 24 h) than at pH 7.4 (pH of blood plasma; 16% DOX released within 24 h). Cleavage of hydrazone bonds between DOX and carrier continues even after plateau in the DOX release from micelles incubated in aqueous solutions is reached.

Microstructural modifications induced by accelerated aging and lipid absorption in remelted and annealed UHMWPEs for total hip arthroplasty

PubMed Central

Puppulin, Leonardo; Zhu, Wenliang; Sugano, Nobuhiko

2014-01-01

Three types of commercially available ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) acetabular cups currently used in total hip arthroplasty have been studied by means of Raman micro-spectroscopy to unfold the microstructural modification induced by the oxidative degradation after accelerated aging with and without lipid absorption. The three investigated materials were produced by three different manufacturing procedures, as follows: irradiation followed by remelting, one-step irradiation followed by annealing, 3-step irradiation and annealing. Clear microstructural differences were observed in terms of phase contents (i.e. amorphous, crystalline and intermediate phase fraction). The three-step annealed material showed the highest crystallinity fraction in the bulk, while the remelted polyethylene is clearly characterized by the lowest content of crystalline phase and the highest content of amorphous phase. After accelerated aging either with or without lipids, the amount of amorphous phase decreased in all the samples as a consequence of the oxidation-induced recrystallization. The most remarkable variations of phase contents were detected in the remelted and in the single-step annealed materials. The presence of lipids triggered oxidative degradation especially in the remelted polyethylene. Such experimental evidence might be explained by the highest amount of amorphous phase in which lipids can be absorbed prior to accelerated aging. The results of these spectroscopic characterizations help to rationalize the complex effect of different irradiation and post-irradiation treatments on the UHMWPE microstructure and gives useful information on how significantly any single step of the manufacturing procedures might affect the oxidative degradation of the polymer. PMID:25179830

FTIR spectroscopy supported by statistical techniques for the structural characterization of plastic debris in the marine environment: Application to monitoring studies.

PubMed

Mecozzi, Mauro; Pietroletti, Marco; Monakhova, Yulia B

2016-05-15

We inserted 190 FTIR spectra of plastic samples in a digital database and submitted it to Independent Component Analysis (ICA) to extract the "pure" plastic polymers present. These identified plastics were polypropylene (PP), high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), high density polyethylene terephthalate (HDPET), low density polyethylene terephthalate (LDPET), polystyrene (PS), Nylon (NL), polyethylene oxide (OPE), and Teflon (TEF) and they were used to establish the similarity with unknown plastics using the correlation coefficient (r), and the crosscorrelation function (CC). For samples with r<0.8 we determined the Mahalanobis Distance (MD) as additional tool of identification. For instance, for the four plastic fragments found in the Carretta carretta, one plastic sample was assigned to OPE due to its r=0.87; for all the other three plastic samples, due to the r values ranging between 0.83 and0.70, the support of MD suggested LDPET and OPE as co-polymer constituents. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mid-term survivorship and clinical outcomes of cobalt-chrome and oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene

PubMed Central

Petis, Stephen M.; Vasarhelyi, Edward M.; Lanting, Brent A.; Howard, James L.; Naudie, Douglas D.R.; Somerville, Lyndsay E.; McCalden, Richard W.

2016-01-01

Background The choice of bearing articulation for total hip arthroplasty in younger patients is amenable to debate. We compared mid-term patient-reported outcomes and survivorship across 2 different bearing articulations in a young patient cohort. Methods We reviewed patients with cobalt-chrome or oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene who were followed prospectively between 2004 and 2012. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to determine predicted cumulative survivorship at 5 years with all-cause and aseptic revisions as the outcome. We compared patient-reported outcomes, including the Harris hip score (HHS), Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Short-form 12 (SF-12) scores. Results A total of 622 patients were followed during the study period. Mean follow-up was 8.2 (range 2.0–10.6) years for cobalt-chrome and 7.8 (range 2.1–10.7) years for oxidized zirconium. Mean age was 54.9 ± 10.6 years for cobalt-chrome and 54.8 ± 10.7 years for oxidized zirconium. Implant survivorship was 96.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 94.9%–97.1%) for cobalt-chrome and 98.7% (95% CI 98.0%–99.4%) for oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene for all-cause revisions, and 97.2% (95% CI 96.2%–98.2%) for cobalt-chrome and 99.0% (95% CI 98.4%–99.6%) for oxidized zirconium for aseptic revisions. An age-, sex- and diagnosis-matched comparison of the HHS, WOMAC and SF-12 scores demonstrated no significant changes in clinical outcomes across the groups. Conclusion Both bearing surface couples demonstrated excellent mid-term survivorship and outcomes in young patient cohorts. Future analyses on wear and costs are warranted to elicit differences between the groups at long-term follow-up. PMID:26812409

Purification of Alaskan walleye pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus) and New Zealand hoki (Macruronus novaezelandiae) liver oil using short path distillation.

PubMed

Oliveira, Alex C M; Miller, Matthew R

2014-05-22

The beneficial health effects of a diet rich in n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFA) have been extensively researched in recent years. Marine oils are an important dietary source of n-3 LC-PUFA, being especially rich in two of the most important fatty acids of this class, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid; 20:5n-3) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid; 22:6n-3). Oils rich in n-3 LC-PUFA are prone to oxidation that leads to loss of product quality. Alaskan pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus Pallas, 1814) and New Zealand's hoki (Macruronus novaezelandiae Hector, 1871) are the highest volume fisheries of their respective countries. Both produce large quantities of fishery byproducts, in particular crude or unrefined n-3 LC-PUFA containing oils. Presently these oils are used as ingredients for animal feed, and only limited quantities are used as human nutritional products. The aim of this research was to investigate the applicability of short path distillation for the purification of pollock and hoki oil to produce purified human-grade fish oil to meet quality specifications. Pollock and hoki oils were subjected to short path distillation and a significant decrease in free fatty acids and lipid oxidation (peroxide and para-anisidine values) products was observed. Purified oils met the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3 (GOED) standard for edible fish oils.

Investigation of Non-Conventional Bio-Derived Fuels for Hybrid Rocket Motors

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-08-01

been demonstrated that a hybrid rocket system using 85% hydrogen peroxide ( HTP ) as the oxidizer and polyethylene as the solid fuel can serve as a cost...As with the tests at Surrey, they used a catalyst pack to decompose the HTP for the ignition. This type of process provides a self-ignition behavior...low regression rate as HTP and polyethylene, so it is difficult to obtain high thrust levels. MARS has the distinction of launching the first

Radiation cross-linking in ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene for orthopaedic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oral, Ebru; Muratoglu, Orhun K.

2007-12-01

The motivation for radiation cross-linking of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is to increase its wear resistance to be used as bearing surfaces for total joint arthroplasty. However, radiation also leaves behind long-lived residual free radicals in this polymer, the reactions of which can detrimentally affect mechanical properties. In this review, we focus on the radiation cross-linking and oxidative stability of first and second generation highly cross-linked UHMWPEs developed in our laboratory.

Polyethylene oxide-fullerene nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Nasar; Chipara, Dorina; Lozano, Karen; Hinthorne, James; Chipara, Mircea

2017-11-01

Polyethylene oxide - fullerene nanocomposites have been prepared by using the solution path with water as solvent (only for the polymer). The dispersion of C60 within the polymer solution was achieved by high power sonication. The study aims to a better understanding on the effect of C60 nanoparticles on the macromolecular chains. Raman Wide Angle X Ray spectroscopy, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, and Thermogravimetric Analysis were used to inspect the interactions between the nanofiller and macromolecular chains. The experimental results revealed a completely different behavior of fullerene dispersed within polymeric matrices than using carbon nanotubes or nanofibers as nanofiller. The observed behavior was explained by the low aspect ratio of C60 compared to nanotubes and by the low thermal conductivity of C60 compared to the thermal conductivity of others carbon nanostructures.

Highly stable biocompatible inorganic nanoparticles by self-assembly of triblock-copolymer ligands.

PubMed

Pöselt, Elmar; Fischer, Steffen; Foerster, Stephan; Weller, Horst

2009-12-15

A novel type of ligand for biofunctionalization of nanoparticles is presented that comprises tailor-made triblock-copolymers consisting of a polyethylene imine binding block, a hydrophobic polycaprolactone and a terminal functionalized polyethelene oxide block. Phase transfer to water occurs simply by ligand and water addition and removal of the organic solvents. It is shown that the intermediate polycaprolacton block favors the attachment to the particle surface and shields the binding groups effectively from the solution. As a consequence, the particles exhibit an outstanding stability in various aqueous media for biological studies and give easy access to specific coupling reactions at the terminal end groups of the polyethylene oxide block. Controlling the ligand exchange parameters leads to self-assembly to either individual encapsulated nanoparticles or to multifunctional nanobeads.

Water and UV degradable lactic acid polymers

DOEpatents

Bonsignore, P.V.; Coleman, R.D.

1996-10-08

A water and UV light degradable copolymer is described made from monomers of lactic acid and a modifying monomer selected from the class consisting of ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, P-dioxanone, 1,5 dioxepan-2-one, 1,4-oxathialan-2-one, 1,4-dioxide and mixtures thereof. These copolymers are useful for waste disposal and agricultural purposes. Also disclosed is a water degradable blend of polylactic acid or modified polylactic acid and high molecular weight polyethylene oxide wherein the high molecular weight polyethylene oxide is present in the range of from about 2 by weight to about 50% by weight, suitable for films. A method of applying an active material selected from the class of seeds, seedlings, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and mixtures thereof to an agricultural site is also disclosed.

Effect of degrading yellow oxo-biodegradable low-density polyethylene films to water quality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Requejo, B. A.; Pajarito, B. B.

2017-05-01

Polyethylene (PE) contributes largely to plastic wastes that are disposed in aquatic environment as a consequence of its widespread use. In this study, yellow oxo-biodegradable low-density PE films were immersed in deionized water at 50°C for 49 days. Indicators of water quality: pH, oxidation-reduction potential, turbidity, and total dissolved solids (TDS), were monitored at regular intervals. It was observed that pH initially rises and then slowly decreases with time, oxidation-reduction potential decreases then slowly increases with time, turbidity rises above the control at varied rates, and TDS increases abruptly and rises at a hindered rate. Moreover, the films potentially leach out lead chromate. The results imply that degrading oxo-biodegradable LDPE films results to significant reduction of water quality.

Li + transport in poly(ethylene oxide) based electrolyte: A combined study of neutron scattering, dielectric spectroscopy, and MD simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Do, Changwoo; Lunkenheimer, Peter; Diddens, Diddo; Götz, Marion; Weiß, Matthias; Loidl, Alois; Sun, Xiao-Guang; Allgaier, Jürgen; Ohl, Michael

2013-03-01

Dynamics of Li + transport in polyethylene oxide (PEO) and lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imde (LiTFSI) mixtures are investigated by combining various experimental techniques (neutron spin-echo and dielectric spectroscopy) with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Our results suggest that the characteristic live times within the cages formed by oxygens are mainly determined by the alpha-relaxation which corresponds to local segmental motions of polymers, to a much lesser extent by the main chain relaxation, and not at all by the beta-relaxation or any other faster processes. The significant contribution of Li + hopping process to the ion conductivity is also identified. Subsequently, detailed characteristic length and time scales of various Li + transport processes in solid polymer electrolytes are presented and interpreted.

Low-cost optical fabrication of flexible copper electrode via laser-induced reductive sintering and adhesive transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Back, Seunghyun; Kang, Bongchul

2018-02-01

Fabricating copper electrodes on heat-sensitive polymer films in air is highly challenging owing to the need of expensive copper nanoparticles, rapid oxidation of precursor during sintering, and limitation of sintering temperature to prevent the thermal damage of the polymer film. A laser-induced hybrid process of reductive sintering and adhesive transfer is demonstrated to cost-effectively fabricate copper electrode on a polyethylene film with a thermal resistance below 100 °C. A laser-induced reductive sintering process directly fabricates a high-conductive copper electrode onto a glass donor from copper oxide nanoparticle solution via photo-thermochemical reduction and agglomeration of copper oxide nanoparticles. The sintered copper patterns were transferred in parallel to a heat-sensitive polyethylene film through self-selective surface adhesion of the film, which was generated by the selective laser absorption of the copper pattern. The method reported here could become one of the most important manufacturing technologies for fabricating low-cost wearable and disposable electronics.

Anomalous Micellization of Pluronic Block Copolymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leonardi, Amanda; Ryu, Chang Y.

2014-03-01

Poly(ethylene oxide) - poly(propylene oxide) - poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) block copolymers, commercially known as Pluronics, are a unique family of amphiphilic triblock polymers, which self-assemble into micelles in aqueous solution. These copolymers have shown promise in therapeutic, biomedical, cosmetic, and nanotech applications. As-received samples of Pluronics contain low molecular weight impurities (introduced during the manufacturing and processing), that are ignored in most applications. It has been observed, however, that in semi-dilute aqueous solutions, at concentrations above 1 wt%, the temperature dependent micellization behavior of the Pluronics is altered. Anomalous behavior includes a shift of the critical micellization temperature and formation of large aggregates at intermediate temperatures before stable sized micelles form. We attribute this behavior to the low molecular weight impurities that are inherent to the Pluronics which interfere with the micellization process. Through the use of Dynamic Light Scattering and HPLC, we compared the anomalous behavior of different Pluronics of different impurity levels to their purified counterparts.

Extensive Bone Reaction From Catastrophic Oxidized Zirconium Wear.

PubMed

Cassar-Gheiti, Adrian J; Collins, Dennis; McCarthy, Tom

2016-01-01

The use of alternative bearing surfaces for total hip arthroplasty has become popular to minimize wear and increase longevity, especially in young patients. Oxidized zirconium (Oxinium; Smith & Nephew, Memphis, Tennessee) femoral heads were introduced in the past decade for use in total hip arthroplasty. The advantages of oxidized zirconium include less risk of fracture compared with traditional ceramic heads. This case report describes a patient with a history of bilateral avascular necrosis of the femoral head after chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Nonoperative management of avascular necrosis failed, and the patient was treated with bilateral total hip arthroplasty. The patient was followed at regular intervals and had slow eccentric polyethylene wear during a 10-year period. After 10 years, the patient had accelerated wear, with femoral and acetabular bone changes as a result of Oxinium and ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene wear during a 6-month period. This article highlights the unusual accelerated bone changes that occurred as a result of Oxinium wear particles. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

Effect of plantation density on kraft pulp production from red pine (Pinus resinosa Ait.)

Treesearch

J.Y. Zhu; G.C. Myers

2006-01-01

Red pine (Pinus resinosa Ait.) butt logs from 38 year old research plots were used to study the effect of plantation stand density on kraft pulp production. Results indicate that plantation stand density can affect pulp yield, unrefined pulp mean fibre length, and the response of pulp fibre length to pulp refining. However, the effect of plantation stand density on...

Do oxidized zirconium femoral heads reduce polyethylene wear in cemented THAs? A blinded randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Zaoui, Amine; Hage, Samer El; Langlois, Jean; Scemama, Caroline; Courpied, Jean Pierre; Hamadouche, Moussa

2015-12-01

Charnley low-friction torque total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains the gold standard in THA. The main cause for failure is wear of the socket. Highly crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE) has been associated with reduced wear rates. Also, oxidized zirconium has shown in vitro reduced wear rates. However, to our knowledge, there are no data comparing oxidized zirconium femoral heads with metal heads against HXLPE or ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) when 22.25-mm bearings were used, which was the same size that performed so well in Charnley-type THAs. We hypothesized that after a minimal 4-year followup (1) use of HXLPE would result in lower radiographic wear than UHMWPE when articulating with a stainless steel head or with an oxidized zirconium head; (2) use of oxidized zirconium would result in lower radiographic wear than stainless steel when articulating with UHMWPE and HXLPE; and (3) there would be no difference in terms of Merle d'Aubigné scores between the bearing couple combinations. One hundred patients were randomized to receive cemented THA with either oxidized zirconium or a stainless steel femoral head. UHMWPE was used in the first 50 patients, whereas HXLPE was used in the next 50 patients. There were 25 patients in each of the four bearing couple combinations. All other parameters were identical in both groups. Complete followup was available in 86 of these patients. Femoral head penetration was measured using a validated computer-assisted method dedicated to all-polyethylene sockets. Clinical results were compared between the groups using the Merle d'Aubigné score. In the UHMWPE series, the median steady-state penetration rate from 1 year onward was 0.03 mm/year (range, 0.003-0.25 mm/year) in the oxidized zirconium group versus 0.11 mm/year (range, 0.03-0.29 mm/year) in the metal group (difference of medians 0.08, p < 0.001). In the HXLPE series, the median steady-state penetration rate from 1 year onward was 0.02 mm/year (range, -0.32 to 0.07 mm/year) in the oxidized zirconium group versus 0.05 mm/year (range, -0.39 to 0.11 mm/year) in the metal group (difference of medians 0.03, p < 0.001). The Merle d'Aubigné scores were no different between the groups with a median of 18 in each of the groups (range, 16-18). This study demonstrated femoral head penetration was reduced by oxidized zirconium when compared with metal on both UHMWPE and HXLPE. However, apart the metal-UHMWE group, all other groups had a steady-state penetration rate well below the osteolysis threshold with a low difference between groups that might not be clinically important at this point. Longer-term followup is needed to warrant whether wear reduction will generate less occurrence of osteolysis and aseptic loosening. Level II, therapeutic study.

Pyrolysis result of polyethylene waste as fuel for solid oxide fuel cell with samarium doped-ceria (SDC)-carbonate as electrolyte

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Syahputra, R. J. E.; Rahmawati, F.; Prameswari, A. P.; Saktian, R.

2017-02-01

In this research, the result of pyrolysis on polyethylene was used as fuel for a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). The pyrolysis result is a liquid which consists of hydrocarbon chains. According to GC-MS analysis, the hydrocarbons mainly consist of C7 to C20 hydrocarbon chain. Then, the liquid was applied to a single cell of NSDC-L | NSDC | NSDC-L. NSDC is a composite SDC (samarium doped-ceria) with sodium carbonate. Meanwhile, NSDC-L is a composite of NSDC with LiNiCuO (LNC). NSDC and LNC were analyzed by X-ray diffraction to understand their crystal structure. The result shows that presence of carbonate did not change the crystal structure of SDC. SEM EDX analysis for fuel cell before and after being loaded with polyethylene oil to get information of element diffusion to the electrolyte. Meanwhile, the conductivity properties were investigated through impedance measurement. The presence of carbonate even increases the electrical conductivity. The single cell test with the pyrolysis result of polyethylene at 300 - 600 °C, found that the highest power density is at 600 °C with the maximum power density of 0.14 mW/cm2 and open circuit voltage of 0.4 Volt. Elemental analysis at three point spots of single cell NDSC-L |NSDC|NSDC-L found that a migration of ions was occurred during fuel operation at 300 - 600 °C.

Room-Temperature Performance of Poly(Ethylene Ether Carbonate)-Based Solid Polymer Electrolytes for All-Solid-State Lithium Batteries.

PubMed

Jung, Yun-Chae; Park, Myung-Soo; Kim, Duck-Hyun; Ue, Makoto; Eftekhari, Ali; Kim, Dong-Won

2017-12-13

Amorphous poly(ethylene ether carbonate) (PEEC), which is a copolymer of ethylene oxide and ethylene carbonate, was synthesized by ring-opening polymerization of ethylene carbonate. This route overcame the common issue of low conductivity of poly(ethylene oxide)(PEO)-based solid polymer electrolytes at low temperatures, and thus the solid polymer electrolyte could be successfully employed at the room temperature. Introducing the ethylene carbonate units into PEEC improved the ionic conductivity, electrochemical stability and lithium transference number compared with PEO. A cross-linked solid polymer electrolyte was synthesized by photo cross-linking reaction using PEEC and tetraethyleneglycol diacrylate as a cross-linking agent, in the form of a flexible thin film. The solid-state Li/LiNi 0.6 Co 0.2 Mn 0.2 O 2 cell assembled with solid polymer electrolyte based on cross-linked PEEC delivered a high initial discharge capacity of 141.4 mAh g -1 and exhibited good capacity retention at room temperature. These results demonstrate the feasibility of using this solid polymer electrolyte in all-solid-state lithium batteries that can operate at ambient temperatures.

ESCA Study of Poly (Vinylidene Fluoride) Tetrafluoroethylene - Ethylene Copolymer and Polyethylene Exposed to Atomic Oxygen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Golub, Morton A.; Cormia, Robert D.

1989-01-01

The ESCA (electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis) spectra of films of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene copolymer (TFE/ET) and polyethylene (PE) exposed to atomic oxygen (O(P-3)), in or out of the glow of a radio-frequency O2 plasma, were compared. ESCA spectra of PE films exposed to (O(P-3)) in low Earth orbit (LEO) on the STS-8 Space Shuttle were also examined. Apart from O(P-3)-induced surface recession (etching), the various polymer films exhibited surface oxidation, which proceeded towards equilibrium saturation oxygen levels. The maximum surface oxygen uptakes for in-glow or out-of-glow exposures were in the order: PE greater than TFE/ET greater than PVDF; for PE itself, the oxygen uptakes were in the order: in glow greater than out of glow greater than LEO. Given prior ESCA data on poly(vinyl fluoride) and polytetrafluoroethylene films exposed to O(P-3), the extent of surface oxidation is seen to decrease regularly with increase in fluorine substitution in a family of ethylene-type polymers. (Keywords: ESCA; poly(vinylidene fluoride); tetrafluoroethylene ethylene copolymer; polyethylene; atomic oxygen; radio-frequency oxygen plasma; low Earth orbit)

Surface chemistry changes and microstructure evaluation of low density nanocluster polyethylene under natural weathering: A spectroscopic investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamzah, M.; Khenfouch, M.; Rjeb, A.; Sayouri, S.; Houssaini, D. S.; Darhouri, M.; Srinivasu, VV

2018-03-01

Polyethylene is the most commonly used plastic in daily life, covering wide areas of application e.g. this polymer is used as a greenhouses covering material. This article investigates the effect of photo-oxidation on commercial unstabilised Low Density Polyethylene (uLDPE), as result of outdoor weathering factors. In this study, the samples were exposed for four months to the natural weather. The physico-chemical effects of natural ageing were studied by attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopy to elucidate the chemical composition, the nature of chemical bonds established and further to interrogate the changes that occur on the surface of the uLDPE samples. The main chemical change of uLDPE results in the formation of different kinds of carbonyl and vinyl groups identifiable in the ATR-FTIR and XPS spectra. The degree of crystallinity for these samples was calculated in terms of time exposure. An increase in the degree of crystallinity due to chemicrystallization was observed, which we indicative of the occurrences of chain scission. During outdoor exposure it was found that the photo-oxidation results in the formation of chain scission occurrences via Norrish type II reactions.

Biodegradation of HDPE by Aspergillus spp. from marine ecosystem of Gulf of Mannar, India.

PubMed

Sangeetha Devi, Rajendran; Rajesh Kannan, Velu; Nivas, Duraisamy; Kannan, Kanthaiah; Chandru, Sekar; Robert Antony, Arokiaswamy

2015-07-15

High density polyethylene (HDPE) is the most commonly found non-degradable solid waste among the polyethylene. In this present study, HDPE degrading various fungal strains were isolated from the polyethylene waste dumped marine coastal area and screened under in vitro condition. Based on weight loss and FT-IR Spectrophotometric analysis, two fungal strains designated as VRKPT1 and VRKPT2 were found to be efficient in HDPE degradation. Through the sequence analysis of ITS region homology, the isolated fungi were identified as Aspergillus tubingensis VRKPT1 and Aspergillus flavus VRKPT2. The biofilm formation observed under epifluorescent microscope had shown the viability of fungal strains even after one month of incubation. The biodegradation of HDPE film nature was further investigated through SEM analysis. HDPE poses severe environmental threats and hence the ability of fungal isolates was proved to utilize virgin polyethylene as the carbon source without any pre-treatment and pro-oxidant additives. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of a low-density polyethylene film containing butylated hydroxytoluene on lipid oxidation and protein quality of Sierra fish (Scomberomorus sierra) muscle during frozen storage.

PubMed

Torres-Arreola, Wilfrido; Soto-Valdez, Herlinda; Peralta, Elizabeth; Cardenas-López, José Luis; Ezquerra-Brauer, Josafat Marina

2007-07-25

Fresh sierra fish (Scomberomorus sierra) fillets were packed in low-density polyethylene films with butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT-LDPE) added. Fillets packed in LDPE with no BHT were used as controls (LDPE). The packed fillets were stored at -25 degrees C for 120 days in which the film released 66.5% of the antioxidant. The influence of the antioxidant on lipid and protein quality, lipid oxidation, muscle structure changes, and shear-force resistance was recorded. As compared to LDPE films, fillets packed in BHT-LDPE films showed lower lipid oxidation, thiobarbituric acid values (4.20 +/- 0.52 vs 11.95 +/- 1.06 mg malonaldehyde/kg), peroxide values (7.20 +/- 1.38 vs 15.15 +/- 1.48 meq/kg), and free fatty acids (7.98 +/- 0.43 vs 11.83 +/- 1.26% of oleic acid). Fillets packed in BHT-LDPE films showed less tissue damage and lost less firmness than fillets packed in LDPE. A significant relationship between lipid oxidation and texture was detected (R2 adjusted, 0.70-0.73). BHT-LDPE films may be used not only to prevent lipid oxidation but also to minimize protein damage to prolong the shelf life of sierra fish.

Lithium batteries using poly(ethylene oxide)-based non-aqueous electrolytes

DOEpatents

Chen, Zonghai; Amine, Khalil

2015-09-08

Lithium-air cells employing poly(ethyleneoxide) phosphate-based electrolytes may be prepared and exhibit improved charge carrying capacity. Such PEO phosphates generally have the formulas IIa, IIb, IIc, where: ##STR00001##

Investigation of tribological properties of graphene oxide reinforced ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene under artificial seawater lubricating condition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pang, Wenchao; Ni, Zifeng; Wu, JiaLiang; Zhao, Yongwu

2018-03-01

A range of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)/graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites were fabricated using liquid-phase ultrasonication mixing followed by hot-pressing. The wettability, water absorption and corrosion resistance of composites were studied to prove the composites were suitable for application in liquid environment. The tribological properties of composites under dry, deionized water and seawater lubricating condition were investigated. The results showed that the incorporation of GO decreased the wear rate of UHMWPE under different lubricating conditions and with the increase of GO addition, the wear rate of UHMWPE/GO composites decreased. UHMWPE/GO composites exhibited better tribological behaviors under seawater lubricating condition than other conditions, because good corrosion resistance and excellent wear resistance of UHMWPE/GO composites, and the lubricating effect of seawater is also indispensable.

Field Effect Transistor Behavior in Electrospun Polyaniline/Polyethylene Oxide Nanofibers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miranda, Felix A.; Theofylaktos, Noulie; Mueller, Carl H.; Pinto, Nicholas J.

2004-01-01

Novel transistors and logic devices based on nanotechnology concepts are under intense development. The potential for ultra-low-power circuitry makes nanotechnology attractive for applications such as digital electronics and sensors. For NASA applications, nanotechnology offers tremendous opportunities for increased onboard data processing, and thus autonomous decision-making ability, and novel sensors that detect and respond to environmental stimuli with little oversight requirements. Polyaniline (PANi) is an intriguing material because its electrical conductivity can be changed from insulating to metallic by varying the doping levels and conformations of the polymer chain, and when combined with polyethylene oxide (PEO), can be formed into nanofibers with diameters ranging from approximately 50 to 500 nm (depending on the deposition conditions). The initial goal of this work was to demonstrate transistor behavior in these nanofibers, thus creating a foundation for future logic devices.

Role of free radicals in aseptic loosening of hip arthroplasty.

PubMed

Kinov, Plamen; Leithner, Andreas; Radl, Roman; Bodo, Koppany; Khoschsorur, Gholam-Ali; Schauenstein, Konrad; Windhager, Reinhard

2006-01-01

Fibrous pseudocapsule around hip implants is an invariable finding at revision operations and is believed to release inflammatory mediators that stimulate bone resorption. Reactive oxygen species have been proposed to be causative factors in various disorders with tissue fibrosis. We were interested in investigating whether aseptic loosening is connected with high oxidative stress, and in showing the underlying mechanism of periprosthetic fibrosis and its role in loosening. Levels of oxidative stress markers reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) gluthatione and malondialdehyde (MDA) were assayed in 28 loose hips and in 12 stable hips revised for high rate of wear and osteolysis. Collagen in the periprosthetic tissues was measured as hydroxyproline content. Osteolysis and polyethylene wear were graded. Increased oxidative stress measured by low GSH/GSSG ratio as well as by increased MDA level was established in patients compared to controls. Oxidative stress markers intercorrelated significantly. MDA and both GSH and GSSG levels correlated significantly with hydroxyproline level. Levels of GSSG and MDA were higher in hips with greater polyethylene wear. The results suggest that high oxidative stress may play a role in formation of a fibrous membrane observed at revision of loose hips. The fibrous pseudocapsule is probably related to high intraarticular pressure and expansion of the effective joint space. This study may elicit some aspects of the pathogenesis of aseptic hip loosening and aid in future investigations aiming at prevention of this complication.

Investigation of space charge distribution of low-density polyethylene/GO-GNF (graphene oxide from graphite nanofiber) nanocomposite for HVDC application.

PubMed

Kim, Yoon Jin; Ha, Son-Tung; Lee, Gun Joo; Nam, Jin Ho; Ryu, Ik Hyun; Nam, Su Hyun; Park, Cheol Min; In, Insik; Kim, Jiwan; Han, Chul Jong

2013-05-01

This paper reported a research on space charge distribution in low-density polyethylene (LDPE) nanocomposites with different types of graphene and graphene oxide (GO) at low filler content (0.05 wt%) under high DC electric field. Effect of addition of graphene oxide or graphene, its dispersion in LDPE polymer matrix on the ability to suppress space charge generation will be investigated and compared with MgO/LDPE nanocomposite at the same filler concentration. At an applied electric field of 80 kV/mm, a positive packet-like charge was observed in both neat LDPE, MgO/LDPE, and graphene/LDPE nanocomposites, whereas only little homogenous space charge was observed in GO/LDPE nanocomposites, especially with GO synthesized from graphite nano fiber (GNF) which is only -100 nm in diameter. Our research also suggests that dispersion of graphene oxide particles on the polymer matrix plays a significant role to the performance of nanocomposites on suppressing packet-like space charge. From these results, it is expected that nano-sized GO synthesized from GNF can be a promising filler material to LDPE composite for HVDC applications.

Boron-based nanostructures: Synthesis, functionalization, and characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bedasso, Eyrusalam Kifyalew

Boron-based nanostructures have not been explored in detail; however, these structures have the potential to revolutionize many fields including electronics and biomedicine. The research discussed in this dissertation focuses on synthesis, functionalization, and characterization of boron-based zero-dimensional nanostructures (core/shell and nanoparticles) and one-dimensional nanostructures (nanorods). The first project investigates the synthesis and functionalization of boron-based core/shell nanoparticles. Two boron-containing core/shell nanoparticles, namely boron/iron oxide and boron/silica, were synthesized. Initially, boron nanoparticles with a diameter between 10-100 nm were prepared by decomposition of nido-decaborane (B10H14) followed by formation of a core/shell structure. The core/shell structures were prepared using the appropriate precursor, iron source and silica source, for the shell in the presence of boron nanoparticles. The formation of core/shell nanostructures was confirmed using high resolution TEM. Then, the core/shell nanoparticles underwent a surface modification. Boron/iron oxide core/shell nanoparticles were functionalized with oleic acid, citric acid, amine-terminated polyethylene glycol, folic acid, and dopamine, and boron/silica core/shell nanoparticles were modified with 3-(amino propyl) triethoxy silane, 3-(2-aminoethyleamino)propyltrimethoxysilane), citric acid, folic acid, amine-terminated polyethylene glycol, and O-(2-Carboxyethyl)polyethylene glycol. A UV-Vis and ATR-FTIR analysis established the success of surface modification. The cytotoxicity of water-soluble core/shell nanoparticles was studied in triple negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 and the result showed the compounds are not toxic. The second project highlights optimization of reaction conditions for the synthesis of boron nanorods. This synthesis, done via reduction of boron oxide with molten lithium, was studied to produce boron nanorods without any contamination and with a uniform size distribution. Various reaction parameters such as temperature, reaction time, and sonication were altered to find the optimal reaction conditions. Once these conditions were determined, boron nanorods were produced then functionalized with amine-terminated polyethylene glycol.

Modulation of Protein Adsorption and Cell Proliferation on Polyethylene Immobilized Graphene Oxide Reinforced HDPE Bionanocomposites.

PubMed

Upadhyay, Rahul; Naskar, Sharmistha; Bhaskar, Nitu; Bose, Suryasarathi; Basu, Bikramjit

2016-05-18

The uniform dispersion of nanoparticles in a polymer matrix, together with an enhancement of interfacial adhesion is indispensable toward achieving better mechanical properties in the nanocomposites. In the context to biomedical applications, the type and amount of nanoparticles can potentially influence the biocompatibility. To address these issues, we prepared high-density polyethylene (HDPE) based composites reinforced with graphene oxide (GO) by melt mixing followed by compression molding. In an attempt to tailor the dispersion and to improve the interfacial adhesion, we immobilized polyethylene (PE) onto GO sheets by nucleophilic addition-elimination reaction. A good combination of yield strength (ca. 20 MPa), elastic modulus (ca. 600 MPa), and an outstanding elongation at failure (ca. 70%) were recorded with 3 wt % polyethylene grafted graphene oxide (PE-g-GO) reinforced HDPE composites. Considering the relevance of protein adsorption as a biophysical precursor to cell adhesion, the protein adsorption isotherms of bovine serum albumin (BSA) were determined to realize three times higher equilibrium constant (Keq) for PE-g-GO-reinforced HDPE composites as compared to GO-reinforced composites. To assess the cytocompatibility, we grew osteoblast cell line (MC3T3) and human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) on HDPE/GO and HDPE/PE-g-GO composites, in vitro. The statistically significant increase in metabolically active cell over different time periods in culture for up to 6 days in MC3T3 and 7 days for hMSCs was observed, irrespective of the substrate composition. Such observation indicated that HDPE with GO or PE-g-GO addition (up to 3 wt %) can be used as cell growth substrate. The extensive proliferation of cells with oriented growth pattern also supported the fact that tailored GO addition can support cellular functionality in vitro. Taken together, the experimental results suggest that the PE-g-GO in HDPE can effectively be utilized to enhance both mechanical and cytocompatibility properties and can further be explored for potential biomedical applications.

Towards aging mechanisms of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable insulation materials in nuclear power plants

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Shuaishuai; Fifield, Leonard S.; Bowler, Nicola

Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable insulation material undergoes simultaneous, accelerated thermal and gamma-radiation aging to simulate the long-term aging environment within nuclear power plants (NPPs). A variety of materials characterization tests, including scanning electron microscopy, thermo-gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, oxidation induction time, gel-fraction and dielectric properties measurement, are conducted on pristine and differently aged XLPE samples. A preliminary model of one possible aging mechanism of XLPE cable insulation material under gamma radiation at elevated temperature of 115 °C is suggested.

Probing the Conformational Landscape of a Polyether Building Block by Raman Jet Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bocklitz, Sebastian; Suhm, Martin A.

2015-06-01

Polyethylene oxides (Polyethylene glycoles) represent a prominent class of water-soluble polymers. Surprisingly, already 1,2-dimethoxyethane as the simplest representative of this polymer family has an undetermined conformational preference in the gas phase. Here, we address this problem by spontaneous Raman scattering in a supersonic jet. Variation of carrier gas, stagnation pressure, nozzle distance and temperature provides information on the three lowest conformations and their mutual interconversion during collisions in the expansion. The results are compared to quantum chemical calculations of the potential energy landscape and of normal modes.

Curcumin Encapsulated into Methoxy Poly(Ethylene Glycol) Poly(ε-Caprolactone) Nanoparticles Increases Cellular Uptake and Neuroprotective Effect in Glioma Cells.

PubMed

Marslin, Gregory; Sarmento, Bruno Filipe Carmelino Cardoso; Franklin, Gregory; Martins, José Alberto Ribeiro; Silva, Carlos Jorge Ribeiro; Gomes, Andreia Ferreira Castro; Sárria, Marisa Passos; Coutinho, Olga Maria Fernandes Pereira; Dias, Alberto Carlos Pires

2017-03-01

Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound isolated from turmeric ( Curcuma longa ) with well-demonstrated neuroprotective and anticancer activities. Although curcumin is safe even at high doses in humans, it exhibits poor bioavailability, mainly due to poor absorption, fast metabolism, and rapid systemic elimination. To overcome these issues, several approaches, such as nanoparticle-mediated targeted delivery, have been undertaken with different degrees of success. The present study was conducted to compare the neuroprotective effect of curcumin encapsulated in poly( ε -caprolactone) and methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) poly( ε -caprolactone) nanoparticles in U251 glioblastoma cells. Prepared nanoparticles were physically characterized by laser doppler anemometry, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The results from laser doppler anemometry confirmed that the size of poly( ε -caprolactone) and poly(ethylene glycol) poly( ε -caprolactone) nanoparticles ranged between 200-240 nm for poly( ε -caprolactone) nanoparticles and 30-70 nm for poly(ethylene glycol) poly( ε -caprolactone) nanoparticles, and transmission electron microscopy images revealed their spherical shape. Treatment of U251 glioma cells and zebrafish embryos with poly( ε -caprolactone) and poly(ethylene glycol) poly( ε -caprolactone) nanoparticles loaded with curcumin revealed efficient cellular uptake. The cellular uptake of poly(ethylene glycol) poly( ε -caprolactone) nanoparticles was higher in comparison to poly( ε -caprolactone) nanoparticles. Moreover, poly(ethylene glycol) poly( ε -caprolactone) di-block copolymer-loaded curcumin nanoparticles were able to protect the glioma cells against tBHP induced-oxidative damage better than free curcumin. Together, our results show that curcumin-loaded poly(ethylene glycol) poly( ε -caprolactone) di-block copolymer nanoparticles possess significantly stronger neuroprotective effect in U251 human glioma cells compared to free curcumin and curcumin-loaded poly( ε -caprolactone) nanoparticles. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Polymer blends for use in photoelectrochemical cells for conversion of solar energy to electricity

DOEpatents

Skotheim, Terje

1986-01-01

There is disclosed a polymer blend of a highly conductive polymer and a solid polymer electrolyte that is designed to achieve better charge transfer across the conductive film/polymer electrolyte interface of the electrochemical photovoltaic cell. The highly conductive polymer is preferably polypyrrole or poly-N-p-nitrophenylpyrrole and the solid polymer electrolyte is preferably polyethylene oxide or polypropylene oxide.

Polymer blends for use in photoelectrochemical cells for conversion of solar energy to electricity

DOEpatents

Skotheim, T.

1984-09-28

There is disclosed a polymer blend of a highly conductive polymer and a solid polymer electrolyte that is designed to achieve better charge transfer across the conductive film/polymer electrolyte interface of the electrochemical photovoltaic cell. The highly conductive polymer is preferably polypyrrole or poly-N-p-nitrophenylpyrrole and the solid polymer electrolyte is preferably polyethylene oxide or polypropylene oxide.

Prototyping Energy Storage Components for Hybrid Power Source

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-11

from suitable nanoporous ceramic ( anodized aluminum oxide – AAO ) and polymer (polycarbonate - PC, polyethylene terephtalate - PET) membranes . Metal...of NUC technology: a) sketch of structure, b) SEM image of membrane . The alumina membranes can be easily and inexpensively fabricated via anodization ...of aluminum foil. The pores are formed by self-assembly via pitting and reprecipation of metal oxide . Motivation The work is motivated by the

Preparation of liquid-core nanocapsules from poly[(ethylene oxide)-co-glycidol] with multiple hydrophobic linoleates at an oil-water interface and its encapsulation of pyrene.

PubMed

Ren, Yong; Wang, Guowei; Huang, Junlian

2007-06-01

A convenient approach is provided to prepare liquid-core nanocapsules by cross-linking an amphiphilic copolymer at an oil-water interface. The hydrophilic copolymer poly[(ethylene oxide)-co-glycidol] was prepared by anionic polymerization of ethylene oxide and ethoxyethyl glycidyl ether first, then the hydroxyl groups on the backbone were recovered after hydrolysis and partly modified by hydrophobic conjugated linoleic acid. The copolymer with multiple linoleate pendants was absorbed at an oil-water interface and then cross-linked to form stable nanocapsules. The mean diameter of the nanocapsule was below 350 nm, and the size distribution was relatively narrow (<0.2) at low concentrations of oil in acetone (<10 mg/mL). The particle size could be tuned easily by variation of the emulsification conditions. The nanocapsule was stable in water for at least 5 months, and the shell maintained its integrity after removal of the oily core by solvent. Pyrene was encapsulated in these nanocapsules, and a loading efficiency as high as 94% was measured by UV spectroscopy.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) assisted size-controlled SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles by sol-gel process

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tripathi, P., E-mail: ptrip71@yahoo.com; Ahmed, Ateeq; Ali, Tinku

2016-05-23

Tetragonal phase tin oxide (SnO{sub 2}) nanoparticles have been synthesized by sol–gel method using SnCl{sub 4}.5H{sub 2}O and polyethylene glycol (PEG) of different concentration. The phase, size and purity of the final products are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The morphology is confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. There exists relationship between the concentration of PEG and particle size of SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles. Increase in concentration of PEG caused the reduction of particle size of tin oxide nanoparticles. The results suggest that the concentration of PEG plays a significant role in determining the size of SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles synthesizedmore » via this method. The optical property of the product has been explored by Ultraviolet (UV-visible) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic techniques.« less

Structural Evolution of Low-Molecular-Weight Poly(ethylene oxide)-block-polystyrene Diblock Copolymer Thin Film

PubMed Central

Huang, Xiaohua

2013-01-01

The structural evolution of low-molecular-weight poly(ethylene oxide)-block-polystyrene (PEO-b-PS) diblock copolymer thin film with various initial film thicknesses on silicon substrate under thermal annealing was investigated by atomic force microscopy, optical microscopy, and contact angle measurement. At film thickness below half of the interlamellar spacing of the diblock copolymer (6.2 nm), the entire silicon is covered by a polymer brush with PEO blocks anchored on the Si substrate due to the substrate-induced effect. When the film is thicker than 6.2 nm, a dense polymer brush which is equal to half of an interlamellar layer was formed on the silicon, while the excess material dewet this layer to form droplets. The droplet surface was rich with PS block and the PEO block crystallized inside the bigger droplet to form spherulite. PMID:24302862

Nanosized amorphous calcium carbonate stabilized by poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(acrylic acid) block copolymers.

PubMed

Guillemet, Baptiste; Faatz, Michael; Gröhn, Franziska; Wegner, Gerhard; Gnanou, Yves

2006-02-14

Particles of amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC), formed in situ from calcium chloride by the slow release of carbon dioxide by alkaline hydrolysis of dimethyl carbonate in water, are stabilized against coalescence in the presence of very small amounts of double hydrophilic block copolymers (DHBCs) composed of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) blocks. Under optimized conditions, spherical particles of ACC with diameters less than 100 nm and narrow size distribution are obtained at a concentration of only 3 ppm of PEO-b-PAA as additive. Equivalent triblock or star DHBCs are compared to diblock copolymers. The results are interpreted assuming an interaction of the PAA blocks with the surface of the liquid droplets of the concentrated CaCO3 phase, formed by phase separation from the initially homogeneous reaction mixture. The adsorption layer of the block copolymer protects the liquid precursor of ACC from coalescence and/or coagulation.

Fibrin-polyethylene oxide interpenetrating polymer networks: new self-supported biomaterials combining the properties of both protein gel and synthetic polymer.

PubMed

Akpalo, E; Bidault, L; Boissière, M; Vancaeyzeele, C; Fichet, O; Larreta-Garde, V

2011-06-01

Interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) architectures were conceived to improve the mechanical properties of a fibrin gel. Conditions allowing an enzymatic reaction to create one of the two networks in IPN architecture were included in the synthesis pathway. Two IPN series were carried out, starting from two polyethylene oxide (PEO) network precursors leading to different cross-linking densities of the PEO phase. The fibrin concentration varied from 5 to 20 wt.% in each series. The behavior of these materials during dehydration/hydration cycles was also studied. The mechanical properties of the resulting IPN were characterized in the wet and dry states. These self-supported biomaterials combine the properties of both a protein gel and a synthetic polymer. Finally, cells were grown on PEO/fibrin IPN, indicating that they are non-cytotoxic. Copyright © 2011 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A dendrite-suppressing composite ion conductor from aramid nanofibres.

PubMed

Tung, Siu-On; Ho, Szushen; Yang, Ming; Zhang, Ruilin; Kotov, Nicholas A

2015-01-27

Dendrite growth threatens the safety of batteries by piercing the ion-transporting separators between the cathode and anode. Finding a dendrite-suppressing material that combines high modulus and high ionic conductance has long been considered a major technological and materials science challenge. Here we demonstrate that these properties can be attained in a composite made from Kevlar-derived aramid nanofibres assembled in a layer-by-layer manner with poly(ethylene oxide). Importantly, the porosity of the membranes is smaller than the growth area of the dendrites so that aramid nanofibres eliminate 'weak links' where the dendrites pierce the membranes. The aramid nanofibre network suppresses poly(ethylene oxide) crystallization detrimental for ion transport, giving a composite that exhibits high modulus, ionic conductivity, flexibility, ion flux rates and thermal stability. Successful suppression of hard copper dendrites by the composite ion conductor at extreme discharge conditions is demonstrated, thereby providing a new approach for the materials engineering of solid ion conductors.

Polyethylene oxide hydration in grafted layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dormidontova, Elena; Wang, Zilu

Hydration of water soluble polymers is one of the key-factors defining their conformation and properties, similar to biopolymers. Polyethylene oxide (PEO) is one of the most important biomedical-applications polymers and is known for its reverse temperature solubility due to hydrogen bonding with water. As in many practical applications PEO chains are grafted to surfaces, e.g. of nanoparticles or planar surfaces, it is important to understand PEO hydration in such grafted layers. Using atomistic molecular dynamic simulations we investigate the details of molecular conformation and hydration of PEO end-grafted to gold surfaces. We analyze polymer and water density distribution as a function of distance from the surface for different grafting densities. Based on a detailed analysis of hydrogen bonding between polymer and water in grafted PEO layers, we will discuss the extent of PEO hydration and its implication for polymer conformation, mobility and layer properties. This research is supported by NSF (DMR-1410928).

Molecular dynamics simulation of the polymer electrolyte poly(ethylene oxide)/LiClO(4). II. Dynamical properties.

PubMed

Siqueira, Leonardo J A; Ribeiro, Mauro C C

2006-12-07

The dynamical properties of the polymer electrolyte poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)LiClO(4) have been investigated by molecular dynamics simulations. The effect of changing salt concentration and temperature was evaluated on several time correlation functions. Ionic displacements projected on different directions reveal anisotropy in short-time (rattling) and long-time (diffusive) dynamics of Li(+) cations. It is shown that ionic mobility is coupled to the segmental motion of the polymeric chain. Structural relaxation is probed by the intermediate scattering function F(k,t) at several wave vectors. Good agreement was found between calculated and experimental F(k,t) for pure PEO. A remarkable slowing down of polymer relaxation is observed upon addition of the salt. The ionic conductivity estimated by the Nernst-Einstein equation is approximately ten times higher than the actual conductivity calculated by the time correlation function of charge current.

Improved electrical conductivity of poly(ethylene oxide) nanofibers using multi-walled carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, J. Y.; Kang, T.-H.; Choi, J. H.; Choi, I.-S.; Yu, W.-R.

2018-03-01

Highly conductive nanofibers with 1570 S/m were obtained from an electrospun solution of polymer containing multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Homogeneous dispersion of high concentrations of MWCNTs was achieved by attaching poly(styrenesulfonic acid graft aniline) (PSS-g-ANI), an amphiphilic surfactant, to the MWCNT surface. The hydrophilic sulfonic acid group facilitated the dissolution of PSS-g-ANI-grafted MWCNTs in a polyethylene oxide (PEO) solution up to 6.7 wt% MWCNT. To our knowledge, this is the highest level of MWCNT doping attained in a solution designed for electrospinning. With the incorporation of PSS-g-ANI, the concentration of MWCNTs embedded in the electrospun nanofibers increased. More importantly, the alignment of MWCNTs along the nanofiber axis increased significantly, as confirmed by observed birefringence under crossed polarizers. The combination of higher doping levels and better alignment afforded highly conductive nanofibers suitable for electronic nanodevices.

Effects of Silica Nanostructures in Poly(ethylene oxide)-Based Composite Polymer Electrolytes.

PubMed

Mohanta, Jagdeep; Anwar, Shahid; Si, Satyabrata

2016-06-01

The present work describes the synthesis of some poly(ethylene oxide)-based nanocomposite polymer electrolyte films using various silica nanostructures as the inorganic filler by simple solution mixing technique, in which the nature of the silica nanostructures play a vital role in modulating their electrochemical performances at room temperature. The silica nanostructures are prepared by ammonical hydrolysis of tetraethyl orthosilicate following the modified St6ber method. The resulting films are characterized by X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimeter to study their crystallinity. Room temperature AC impedance spectroscopy is utilized to determine the Li+ ion conductivity of the resulting films. The observed conductivity values of various NCPE films depend on the nature of silica filling as well as on their surface characteristics and also on the varying PEO-Li+ ratio, which is observed to be in the order of 10(-7)-10(-6) S cm(-1).

Fabricating metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors on a polyethylene terephthalate substrate by applying low-temperature layer transfer of a single-crystalline silicon layer by meniscus force

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sakaike, Kohei; Akazawa, Muneki; Nakamura, Shogo

2013-12-02

A low-temperature local-layer technique for transferring a single-crystalline silicon (c-Si) film by using a meniscus force was proposed, and an n-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) was fabricated on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. It was demonstrated that it is possible to transfer and form c-Si films in the required shape at the required position on PET substrates at extremely low temperatures by utilizing a meniscus force. The proposed technique for layer transfer was applied for fabricating high-performance c-Si MOSFETs on a PET substrate. The fabricated MOSFET showed a high on/off ratio of more than 10{sup 8} and a high field-effect mobilitymore » of 609 cm{sup 2} V{sup −1} s{sup −1}.« less

Catalytic Hydroxylation of Polyethylenes

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Polyolefins account for 60% of global plastic consumption, but many potential applications of polyolefins require that their properties, such as compatibility with polar polymers, adhesion, gas permeability, and surface wetting, be improved. A strategy to overcome these deficiencies would involve the introduction of polar functionalities onto the polymer chain. Here, we describe the Ni-catalyzed hydroxylation of polyethylenes (LDPE, HDPE, and LLDPE) in the presence of mCPBA as an oxidant. Studies with cycloalkanes and pure, long-chain alkanes were conducted to assess precisely the selectivity of the reaction and the degree to which potential C–C bond cleavage of a radical intermediate occurs. Among the nickel catalysts we tested, [Ni(Me4Phen)3](BPh4)2 (Me4Phen = 3,4,7,8,-tetramethyl-1,10-phenanthroline) reacted with the highest turnover number (TON) for hydroxylation of cyclohexane and the highest selectivity for the formation of cyclohexanol over cyclohexanone (TON, 5560; cyclohexanol/(cyclohexanone + ε-caprolactone) ratio, 10.5). The oxidation of n-octadecane occurred at the secondary C–H bonds with 15.5:1 selectivity for formation of an alcohol over a ketone and 660 TON. Consistent with these data, the hydroxylation of various polyethylene materials by the combination of [Ni(Me4Phen)3](BPh4)2 and mCPBA led to the introduction of 2.0 to 5.5 functional groups (alcohol, ketone, alkyl chloride) per 100 monomer units with up to 88% selectivity for formation of alcohols over ketones or chloride. In contrast to more classical radical functionalizations of polyethylene, this catalytic process occurred without significant modification of the molecular weight of the polymer that would result from chain cleavage or cross-linking. Thus, the resulting materials are new compositions in which hydroxyl groups are located along the main chain of commercial, high molecular weight LDPE, HDPE, and LLDPE materials. These hydroxylated polyethylenes have improved wetting properties and serve as macroinitiators to synthesize graft polycaprolactones that compatibilize polyethylene–polycaprolactone blends. PMID:28852704

A Multicenter Approach Evaluating the Impact of Vitamin E-Blended Polyethylene in Cementless Total Hip Replacement

PubMed Central

Jäger, Marcus; van Wasen, Andrea; Warwas, Sebastian; Landgraeber, Stefan; Haversath, Marcel; Group, VITAS

2014-01-01

Since polyethylene is one of the most frequently used biomaterials as a liner in total hip arthroplasty, strong efforts have been made to improve design and material properties over the last 50 years. Antioxidants seems to be a promising alternative to further increase durability and reduce polyethylene wear in long term. As of yet, only in vitro results are available. While they are promising, there is yet no clinical evidence that the new material shows these advantages in vivo. To answer the question if vitamin-E enhanced ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is able to improve long-term survivorship of cementless total hip arthroplasty we initiated a randomized long-term multicenter trial. Designed as a superiority study, the oxidation index assessed in retrieval analyses of explanted liners was chosen as primary parameter. Radiographic results (wear rate, osteolysis, radiolucency) and functional outcome (Harris Hip Scores, University of California-Los Angeles, Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Visual Analogue Scale) will serve as secondary parameters. Patients with the indication for a cementless total hip arthroplasty will be asked to participate in the study and will be randomized to either receive a standard hip replacement with a highly cross-linked UHMWPE-X liner or a highly cross-linked vitamin-E supplemented UHMWPE-XE liner. The follow-up will be 15 years, with evaluation after 5, 10 and 15 years. The controlled randomized study has been designed to determine if Vitamin-E supplemented highly cross-linked polyethylene liners are superior to standard XLPE liners in cementless total hip arthroplasty. While several studies have been started to evaluate the influence of vitamin-E, most of them evaluate wear rates and functional results. The approach used for this multicenter study, to analyze the oxidation status of retrieved implants, should make it possible to directly evaluate the ageing process and development of the implant material itself over a time period of 15 years. PMID:25002933

Purification of Alaskan Walleye Pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus) and New Zealand Hoki (Macruronus novaezelandiae) Liver Oil Using Short Path Distillation

PubMed Central

Oliveira, Alex C. M.; Miller, Matthew R.

2014-01-01

The beneficial health effects of a diet rich in n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFA) have been extensively researched in recent years. Marine oils are an important dietary source of n-3 LC-PUFA, being especially rich in two of the most important fatty acids of this class, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid; 20:5n-3) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid; 22:6n-3). Oils rich in n-3 LC-PUFA are prone to oxidation that leads to loss of product quality. Alaskan pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus Pallas, 1814) and New Zealand’s hoki (Macruronus novaezelandiae Hector, 1871) are the highest volume fisheries of their respective countries. Both produce large quantities of fishery byproducts, in particular crude or unrefined n-3 LC-PUFA containing oils. Presently these oils are used as ingredients for animal feed, and only limited quantities are used as human nutritional products. The aim of this research was to investigate the applicability of short path distillation for the purification of pollock and hoki oil to produce purified human-grade fish oil to meet quality specifications. Pollock and hoki oils were subjected to short path distillation and a significant decrease in free fatty acids and lipid oxidation (peroxide and para-anisidine values) products was observed. Purified oils met the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3 (GOED) standard for edible fish oils. PMID:24858408

Deformation sensor based on polymer-supported discontinuous graphene multi-layer coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carotenuto, G.; Schiavo, L.; Romeo, V.; Nicolais, L.

2014-05-01

Graphene can be conveniently used in the modification of polymer surfaces. Graphene macromolecules are perfectly transparent to the visible light and electrically conductive, consequently these two properties can be simultaneously provided to polymeric substrates by surface coating with thin graphene layers. In addition, such coating process provides the substrates of: water-repellence, higher surface hardness, low-friction, self-lubrication, gas-barrier properties, and many other functionalities. Polyolefins have a non-polar nature and therefore graphene strongly sticks on their surface. Nano-crystalline graphite can be used as graphene precursor in some chemical processes (e.g., graphite oxide synthesis by the Hummer method), in addition it can be directly applied to the surface of a polyolefin substrate (e.g., polyethylene) to cover it by a thin graphene multilayer. In particular, the nano-crystalline graphite perfectly exfoliate under the application of a combination of shear and friction forces and the produced graphene single-layers perfectly spread and adhere on the polyethylene substrate surface. Such polymeric materials can be used as ITO (indium-tin oxide) substitute and in the fabrication of different electronic devices. Here the fabrication of transparent resistive deformation sensors based on low-density polyethylene films coated by graphene multilayers is described. Such devices are very sensible and show a high reversible and reproducible behavior.

Structural and optical properties of Ag-doped copper oxide thin films on polyethylene napthalate substrate prepared by low temperature microwave annealing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Sayantan; Alford, T. L.

2013-06-01

Silver doped cupric oxide thin films are prepared on polyethylene naphthalate (flexible polymer) substrates. Thin films Ag-doped CuO are deposited on the substrate by co-sputtering followed by microwave assisted oxidation of the metal films. The low temperature tolerance of the polymer substrates led to the search for innovative low temperature processing techniques. Cupric oxide is a p-type semiconductor with an indirect band gap and is used as selective absorption layer solar cells. X-ray diffraction identifies the CuO phases. Rutherford backscattering spectrometry measurements confirm the stoichiometry of each copper oxide formed. The surface morphology is determined by atomic force microscopy. The microstructural properties such as crystallite size and the microstrain for (-111) and (111) planes are calculated and discussed. Incorporation of Ag led to the lowering of band gap in CuO. Consequently, it is determined that Ag addition has a strong effect on the structural, morphological, surface, and optical properties of CuO grown on flexible substrates by microwave annealing. Tauc's plot is used to determine the optical band gap of CuO and Ag doped CuO films. The values of the indirect and direct band gap for CuO are found to be 2.02 eV and 3.19 eV, respectively.

Solubilization of docetaxel in poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(butylene/styrene oxide) micelles.

PubMed

Elsabahy, Mahmoud; Perron, Marie-Eve; Bertrand, Nicolas; Yu, Ga-Er; Leroux, Jean-Christophe

2007-07-01

Poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(styrene oxide) (PEO-b-PSO) and PEO-b-poly(butylene oxide) (PEO-b-PBO) of different chain lengths were synthesized and characterized for their self-assembling properties in water by dynamic/static light scattering, spectrofluorimetry, and transmission electron microscopy. The resulting polymeric micelles were evaluated for their ability to solubilize and protect the anticancer drug docetaxel (DCTX) from degradation. The drug release kinetics as well as the cytotoxicity of the loaded micelles were assessed in vitro. All polymers formed micelles with a highly viscous core at low critical association concentrations (<10 mg/L). Micelle morphology depended on the nature of the hydrophobic block, with PBO- and PSO-based micelles yielding monodisperse spherical and cylindrical nanosized aggregates, respectively. The maximum solubilization capacity for DCTX ranged from 0.7 to 4.2% and was the highest for PSO micelles exhibiting the longest hydrophobic segment. Despite their high affinity for DCTX, PEO-b-PSO micelles were not able to efficiently protect DCTX against hydrolysis under accelerated stability testing conditions. Only PEO-b-PBO bearing 24 BO units afforded significant protection against degradation. In vitro, DCTX was released slower from the latter micelles, but all formulations possessed a similar cytotoxic effect against PC-3 prostate cancer cells. These data suggest that PEO-b-P(SO/BO) micelles could be used as alternatives to conventional surfactants for the solubilization of taxanes.

Soft and flexible poly(ethylene glycol) nanotubes for local drug delivery.

PubMed

Newland, B; Taplan, C; Pette, D; Friedrichs, J; Steinhart, M; Wang, W; Voit, B; Seib, F P; Werner, C

2018-05-10

Nanotubes are emerging as promising materials for healthcare applications but the selection of clinically relevant starting materials for their synthesis remains largely unexplored. Here we present, for the first time, the synthesis of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) based nanotubes via the photopolymerization of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate and other diacrylate derivatives within the pores of anodized aluminum oxide templates. Template-assisted synthesis allowed the manufacture of a diverse set of polymeric nanotubes with tunable physical characteristics including diameter (∼200-400 nm) and stiffness (405-902 kPa). PEG nanotubes were subjected to cytotoxicty assessment in cell lines and primary stem cells and showed excellent cytocompatability (IC50 > 120 μg ml-1). Nanotubes were readily drug loaded but released the majority of the drug over 5 days. Direct administration of drug loaded nanotubes to human orthotopic breast tumors substantially reduced tumor growth and metastasis and outperformed i.v. administration at the equivalent dose. Overall, this nanotube templating platform is emerging as a facile route for the manufacture of poly(ethylene glycol) nanotubes.

Polymer blends for use in photoelectrochemical cells for conversion of solar energy to electricity and methods for manufacturing such blends

DOEpatents

Skotheim, T.

A polymer blend is disclosed of a highly conductive polymer and a solid polymer electrolyte that is designed to achieve better charge transfer across the conductive film/polymer electrolyte interface of the electrochemical photovoltaic cell. The highly conductive polymer is preferably polypyrrole or poly-N-p-nitrophenylpyrrole and the solid polymer electrolyte is preferably polyethylene oxide or polypropylene oxide.

A Combination Tissue Engineering Strategy for Schwann Cell-Induced Spinal Cord Repair

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-10-01

block copolymer consisting of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polypropylene oxide (PPO). It has thermoreversible gelation properties when used at...high; Zeus Inc., Orangeburg, SC) were placed on top of the aligned and random fibrous PVDF-TrFE disks in 96-well polypropylene plates to prevent them...2011. Preparation of spinal cord injured tissue for light and electron microscopy including preparation for immunostaining. In: Lane LE , Dunnett BS

Kinetics and mechanism for the sonochemical degradation of a nonionic surfactant.

PubMed

Singla, Ritu; Grieser, Franz; Ashokkumar, Muthupandian

2009-03-26

The sonolytic degradation of the nonionic surfactant, octaethylene glycol monododecyl ether (C(12)E(8)), has been studied at various initial concentrations below and above its critical micelle concentration (CMC). It has been observed that the degradation rate increases with an increase in the initial concentration of the surfactant until the CMC is reached. Above the CMC an almost constant degradation rate is observed, suggesting that the surfactant in its monomer form is involved in the degradation process. The degradation process of C(12)E(8) involves two distinct primary processes occurring at the bubble/solution interface: (a) hydroxylation/oxidation of the surfactant and (b) pyrolytic fragmentation of the surfactant. The oxidative cleavage of ethylene oxide units provides evidence for OH radical attack. Hydroxylation of the ethoxy chain gives rise to various short-chain carboxyalkyl-polyethylene glycol intermediates. The polyethylene glycol chain formed, due to the scission of the C(12)E(8) molecule, undergoes rapid hydroxylation/oxidation to yield simple compounds that have the potential to undergo further degradation. The detection of multiple intermediates indicates that several processes affect the complete degradation pathways of the surfactant molecule. TOC analysis, however, indicates that the sonolytic mineralization of the surfactant is difficult to achieve at reasonable rates due to the relatively low surface activity of the degradation products formed during sonolysis.

In vivo degradation in modern orthopaedic UHMWPE bearings and structural characterization of a novel alternative UHMWPE material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reinitz, Steven D.

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) remains the most common bearing material for total joint arthroplasty. Advances in radiation cross-linking and other post-consolidation treatments have led to a rapid differentiation of polyethylene products on the market, with more than twenty unique materials currently being sold by the five largest orthopaedic manufacturers alone. Through oxidation, cross-link density, and free radical measurements, this work demonstrates for the first time that in vivo material degradation is occurring in cross-linked UHMWPE materials. Based on the rate of the reaction in certain materials, it is concluded that oxidative degradation may compromise the mechanical properties of the bearings in as few as ten years, potentially leading to early clinical failure of the devices. Using the knowledge gained from this work as well as previously published observations about UHMWPE oxidation, a two-mechanism model of oxidation is proposed that offers an explanation for the observed in vivo changes. From this model it is concluded that oxidative degradation is in part the result of in vivo chemical species. The two-mechanism model of oxidation suggests that different processing techniques for UHMWPE may reduce the risk of oxidative degradation. It is concluded that by avoiding any radiation cross-linking step, Equal Channel Angular Processing (ECAP) can produce UHMWPE materials with a reduced risk for in vivo oxidation while at the same time offering superior mechanical properties compared to commercially available UHMWPE materials, as well as similar wear behavior. Using dynamic mechanical analysis, the entanglement density in ECAP materials is quantified, and is related back to the ECAP processing parameters. The relationship between entanglement density and resultant material properties is established. The results will allow informed processing parameter selection for producing optimized materials for orthopaedics and other applications.

Synthesis of high molecular weight PEO using non-metal initiators

DOEpatents

Yang, Jin; Sivanandan, Kulandaivelu; Pistorino, Jonathan; Eitouni, Hany Basam

2015-05-19

A new synthetic method to prepare high molecular weight poly(ethylene oxide) with a very narrow molecular weight distribution (PDI<1.5) is described. The method involves a metal free initiator system, thus avoiding dangerous, flammable organometallic compounds.

Polymer/graphite oxide composites as high-performance materials for electric double layer capacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tien, Chien-Pin; Teng, Hsisheng

A single graphene sheet represents a carbon material with the highest surface area available to accommodating molecules or ions for physical and chemical interactions. Here we demonstrate in an electric double layer capacitor the outstanding performance of graphite oxide for providing a platform for double layer formation. Graphite oxide is generally the intermediate compound for obtaining separated graphene sheets. Instead of reduction with hydrazine, we incorporate graphite oxide with a poly(ethylene oxide)-based polymer and anchor the graphene oxide sheets with poly(propylene oxide) diamines. This polymer/graphite oxide composite shows in a "dry" gel-electrolyte system a double layer capacitance as high as 130 F g -1. The polymer incorporation developed here can significantly diversify the application of graphene-based materials in energy storage devices.

Modelling of photodegradation in solar cell modules of substrate and superstrate design made with ethylene-vinyl acetate as pottant material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Somersall, A. C.; Guillet, J. E.

1983-01-01

A computer model was developed which can generate realistic concentration versus time profiles of the chemical species formed during photooxidation of hydrocarbon polymers using as input data a set of elementary reactions with corresponding rate constants and initial conditions. The results of computer simulation have been shown to be consistent with the general experimental observations of the photooxidation of polyethylene exposed to sunlight at ambient temperatures. The useful lifetime (5% oxidation) of the unstabilized polyethylene is predicted to vary from a few months in hot weather (100 F) to almost two years in cool weather (45 F) with an apparent net activation energy of 10 kcal/mol. Modelling studies of alternate mechanisms for stabilization of clear, amorphous, linear polyethylene suggest that the optimum stabilizer would be a molecularly dispensed additive in very low concentration which can trap peroxy radicals and also decompose hydroperoxides.

Comparison of the MBBR denitrification carriers for advanced nitrogen removal of wastewater treatment plant effluent.

PubMed

Yuan, Quan; Wang, Haiyan; Hang, Qianyu; Deng, Yangfan; Liu, Kai; Li, Chunmei; Zheng, Shengzhi

2015-09-01

The moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBRs) were used to remove the residual NO3(-)-N of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent, and the MBBR carriers for denitrification were compared. The results showed that high denitrification efficiency can be achieved with polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane foam, and haydite carriers under following conditions: 7.2 to 8.0 pH, 24 to 26 °C temperature, 12 h hydraulic retention time (HRT), and 25.5 mg L(-1) external methanol dosage, while the WWTP effluent total nitrogen (TN) was between 2.6 and 15.4 mg L(-1) and NO3(-)-N was between 0.2 and 12.6 mg L(-1). The MBBR filled with polyethylene carriers had higher TN and NO3(-)-N removal rate (44.9 ± 19.1 and 83.4 ± 13.0%, respectively) than those with other carriers. The minimum effluent TN and NO3(-)-N of polyethylene MBBR were 1.6 and 0.1 mg L(-1), respectively, and the maximum denitrification rate reached 23.0 g m(-2) day(-1). When chemical oxygen demand (COD)/TN ratio dropped from 6 to 4, the NO3(-)- N and TN removal efficiency decreased significantly in all reactors except for that filled with polyethylene, which indicated that the polyethylene MBBR can resist influent fluctuation much better. The three-dimensional excitation-emission matrix analysis showed that all the influent and effluent of MBBRs contain soluble microbial products (SMPs)-like organics and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), which can be removed better by MBBRs filled with haydite and polyethylene carriers. The nitrous oxide reductase (nosZ)-based terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis suggested that the dominant bacteria in polyethylene MBBR are the key denitrificans.

Polymer blends for use in photoelectrochemical cells for conversion of solar energy to electricity and methods for manufacturing such blends

DOEpatents

Skotheim, Terje

1984-01-01

There is disclosed a polymer blend of a highly conductive polymer and a solid polymer electrolyte that is designed to achieve better charge transfer across the conductive film/polymer electrolyte interface of the electrochemical photovoltaic cell. The highly conductive polymer is preferably polypyrrole or poly-N-p-nitrophenylpyrrole and the solid polymer electrolyte is preferably polyethylene oxide or polypropylene oxide.

A catalyst-free, temperature controlled gelation system for in-mold fabrication of microgels.

PubMed

Krüger, Andreas J D; Köhler, Jens; Cichosz, Stefan; Rose, Jonas C; Gehlen, David B; Haraszti, Tamás; Möller, Martin; De Laporte, Laura

2018-06-19

Anisometric microgels are prepared via thermal crosslinking using an in-mold polymerization technique. Star-shaped poly(ethylene oxide-stat-propylene oxide) polymers, end-modified with amine and epoxy groups, form hydrogels, of which the mechanical properties and gelation rate can be adjusted by the temperature, duration of heating, and polymer concentration. Depending on the microgel stiffness, the rod-shaped microgels self-assemble into ordered or disordered structures.

Study of crosslinking onset and hydrogen annealing of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene irradiated with high-energy protons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilson, John Ford

1997-09-01

Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) is used extensively in hip and knee endoprostheses. Radiation damage from the sterilization of these endoprostheses prior to surgical insertion results in polymer crosslinking and decreased oxidative stability. The motivation for this study was to determine if UHMW-PE could be crosslinked by low dose proton irradiation with minimal radiation damage and its subsequent deleterious effects. I found that low dose proton irradiation and post irradiation hydrogen annealing did crosslink UHMW-PE and limit post irradiation oxidation. Crosslinking onset was investigated for UHMW-PE irradiated with 2.6 and 30 MeV H+ ions at low doses from 5.7 × 1011-2.3 × 1014 ions/cm2. Crosslinking was determined from gel permeation chromatography (GPC) of 1,2,4 trichlorobenzene sol fractions and increased with dose. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed irradiation resulted in increased free radicals confirmed from increased carbonyl groups. Radiation damage, especially at the highest doses observed, also showed up in carbon double bonds and increased methyl end groups. Hydrogen annealing after ion irradiation resulted in 40- 50% decrease in FTIR absorption associated with carbonyl. The hydrogen annealing prevented further oxidation after aging for 1024 hours at 80oC. Hydrogen annealing was successful in healing radiation damage through reacting with the free radicals generated during proton irradiation. Polyethylenes, polyesters, and polyamides are used in diverse applications by the medical profession in the treatment of orthopedic impairments and cardiovascular disease and for neural implants. These artificial implants are sterilized with gamma irradiation prior to surgery and the resulting radiation damage can lead to accelerated deterioration of the implant properties. The findings in this study will greatly impact the continued use of these materials through the elimination of many problems associated with radiation damage from sterilization. The higher energy transfer for proton compared to gamma irradiation greatly accelerated the radiation damage. Radiation damage increased linearly with dose over the range of doses examined. These results were consistent with findings from earlier researchers of gamma irradiation of polyethylene.

Influence of Pro-Oxidant on Photodegradation of a Low-Density Polyethylene-Nanosilica Composite

EPA Science Inventory

Use of polymer nanocomposites is burgeoning and they represent one of the fastest growing components of the manufactured nanomaterials market. Incorporation of nanoscale fillers in these plastics significantly improves their stiffness and other key mechanical properties. Although...

In vitro and in vivo metabolism of N-adamantyl substituted urea-based soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitors.

PubMed

Liu, Jun-Yan; Tsai, Hsing-Ju; Morisseau, Christophe; Lango, Jozsef; Hwang, Sung Hee; Watanabe, Takaho; Kim, In-Hae; Hammock, Bruce D

2015-12-15

N,N'-disubstituted urea-based soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) inhibitors are promising therapeutics for hypertension, inflammation, and pain in multiple animal models. The drug absorption and pharmacological efficacy of these inhibitors have been reported extensively. However, the drug metabolism of these inhibitors is not well described. Here we reported the metabolic profile and associated biochemical studies of an N-adamantyl urea-based sEH inhibitor 1-adamantan-1-yl-3-(5-(2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethoxy)pentyl)urea (AEPU) in vitro and in vivo. The metabolites of AEPU were identified by interpretation of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and/or NMR. In vitro, AEPU had three major positions for phase I metabolism including oxidations on the adamantyl moiety, urea nitrogen atoms, and cleavage of the polyethylene glycol chain. In a rodent model, the metabolites from the hydroxylation on the adamantyl group and nitrogen atom were existed in blood while the metabolites from cleavage of polyethylene glycol chain were not found in urine. The major metabolite found in rodent urine was 3-(3-adamantyl-ureido)-propanoic acid, a presumably from cleavage and oxidation of the polyethylene glycol moiety. All the metabolites found were active but less potent than AEPU at inhibiting human sEH. Furthermore, cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 was found to be a major enzyme mediating AEPU metabolism. In conclusion, the metabolism of AEPU resulted from oxidation by CYP could be shared with other N-adamantyl-urea-based compounds. These findings suggest possible therapeutic roles for AEPU and new strategies for drug design in this series of possible drugs. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Role of Interfaces in Polyethylene/Metal-Oxide Nanocomposites for Ultrahigh-Voltage Insulating Materials.

PubMed

Pourrahimi, Amir Masoud; Olsson, Richard T; Hedenqvist, Mikael S

2018-01-01

Recent progress in the development of polyethylene/metal-oxide nanocomposites for extruded high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) cables with ultrahigh electric insulation properties is presented. This is a promising technology with the potential of raising the upper voltage limit in today's underground/submarine cables, based on pristine polyethylene, to levels where the loss of energy during electric power transmission becomes low enough to ensure intercontinental electric power transmission. The development of HVDC insulating materials together with the impact of the interface between the particles and the polymer on the nanocomposites electric properties are shown. Important parameters from the atomic to the microlevel, such as interfacial chemistry, interfacial area, and degree of particle dispersion/aggregation, are discussed. This work is placed in perspective with important work by others, and suggested mechanisms for improved insulation using nanoparticles, such as increased charge trap density, adsorption of impurities/ions, and induced particle dipole moments are considered. The effects of the nanoparticles and of their interfacial structures on the mechanical properties and the implications of cavitation on the electric properties are also discussed. Although the main interest in improving the properties of insulating polymers has been on the use of nanoparticles, leading to nanodielectrics, it is pointed out here that larger microscopic hierarchical metal-oxide particles with high surface porosity also impart good insulation properties. The impact of the type of particle and its inherent properties (purity and conductivity) on the nanocomposite dielectric and insulating properties are also discussed based on data obtained by a newly developed technique to directly observe the charge distribution on a nanometer scale in the nanocomposite. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Evidence of formation of site-selective inclusion complexation between beta-cyclodextrin and poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(propylene oxide)- block-poly(ethylene oxide) copolymers.

PubMed

Tsai, Chi-Chun; Zhang, Wen-Bin; Wang, Chien-Lung; Van Horn, Ryan M; Graham, Matthew J; Huang, Jing; Chen, Yongming; Guo, Mingming; Cheng, Stephen Z D

2010-05-28

A series of inclusion complexes of poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(propylene oxide)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO) with beta-cyclodextrin (beta-CD) was prepared. Their formation, structure, and dynamics were investigated by solution two-dimensional rotating-frame Overhauser effect spectroscopy (2D ROESY) and one-dimensional (1D) and 2D solid-state (13)C NMR. The inclusion complexes between the PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO copolymers and the beta-CDs were formed in aqueous solution and detected by 2D ROESY. The high efficiency of cross polarization and spin diffusion experiments in (13)C solid-state NMR showed that the mobility of the PPO blocks dramatically decreases after beta-CD complexation, indicating that they are selectively incorporated onto the PPO blocks. The hydrophobic cavities of beta-CD restrict the PPO block mobility, which is evidence of the formation of inclusion complexes in the solid state. The 2D wide-line separation NMR experiments suggested that beta-CDs only thread onto the PPO blocks while forming the inclusion complexes. The stoichiometry of inclusion complexes was studied using (1)H NMR, and a 3:1 (PO unit to beta-CD) was found for all inclusion complexes, which indicated that the number of threaded beta-CDs was only dependent on the molecular weight of the PPO blocks. 1D wide angle x-ray diffraction studies demonstrated that the beta-CD in the inclusion complex formed a channel-like structure that is different from the pure beta-CD crystal structure.

Evidence of formation of site-selective inclusion complexation between β-cyclodextrin and poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(propylene oxide)- block-poly(ethylene oxide) copolymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsai, Chi-Chun; Zhang, Wen-Bin; Wang, Chien-Lung; Van Horn, Ryan M.; Graham, Matthew J.; Huang, Jing; Chen, Yongming; Guo, Mingming; Cheng, Stephen Z. D.

2010-05-01

A series of inclusion complexes of poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(propylene oxide)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO) with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was prepared. Their formation, structure, and dynamics were investigated by solution two-dimensional rotating-frame Overhauser effect spectroscopy (2D ROESY) and one-dimensional (1D) and 2D solid-state C13 NMR. The inclusion complexes between the PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO copolymers and the β-CDs were formed in aqueous solution and detected by 2D ROESY. The high efficiency of cross polarization and spin diffusion experiments in C13 solid-state NMR showed that the mobility of the PPO blocks dramatically decreases after β-CD complexation, indicating that they are selectively incorporated onto the PPO blocks. The hydrophobic cavities of β-CD restrict the PPO block mobility, which is evidence of the formation of inclusion complexes in the solid state. The 2D wide-line separation NMR experiments suggested that β-CDs only thread onto the PPO blocks while forming the inclusion complexes. The stoichiometry of inclusion complexes was studied using H1 NMR, and a 3:1 (PO unit to β-CD) was found for all inclusion complexes, which indicated that the number of threaded β-CDs was only dependent on the molecular weight of the PPO blocks. 1D wide angle x-ray diffraction studies demonstrated that the β-CD in the inclusion complex formed a channel-like structure that is different from the pure β-CD crystal structure.

The "New Polyethylene Glycol Dilemma": Polyethylene Glycol Impurities and Their Paradox Role in mAb Crystallization.

PubMed

Hildebrandt, Christian; Joos, Lea; Saedler, Rainer; Winter, Gerhard

2015-06-01

Polyethylene glycols (PEG) represent the most successful and frequently applied class of excipients used for protein crystallization. PEG auto-oxidation and formation of impurities such as peroxides and formaldehydes that foster protein drug degradation is known. However, their effect on mAb crystallization has not been studied in detail before. During the present study, a model IgG1 antibody (mAb1) was crystallized in PEG solutions. Aggregate formation was observed during crystallization and storage that was ascribed to PEG degradation products. Reduction of peroxide and formaldehyde levels prior to crystallization by vacuum and freeze-drying was investigated for its effect on protein degradation. Vacuum drying was superior in removal of peroxides but inferior in reducing formaldehyde residues. Consequently, double purification allowed extensive removal of both impurities. Applying of purified PEG led to 50% lower aggregate fractions. Surprisingly, PEG double purification or addition of methionine prior to crystallization prevented crystal formation. With increased PEG concentration or spiking with peroxides and formaldehydes, crystal formation could be recovered again. With these results, we demonstrate that minimum amounts of oxidizing impurities and thus in consequence chemically altered proteins are vital to initiate mAb1 crystallization. The present study calls PEG as good precipitant for therapeutic biopharmaceuticals into question. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

Polyethylene Nanocomposites for the Next Generation of Ultralow-Transmission-Loss HVDC Cables: Insulation Containing Moisture-Resistant MgO Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Pourrahimi, Amir Masoud; Pallon, Love K H; Liu, Dongming; Hoang, Tuan Anh; Gubanski, Stanislaw; Hedenqvist, Mikael S; Olsson, Richard T; Gedde, Ulf W

2016-06-15

The use of MgO nanoparticles in polyethylene for cable insulation has attracted considerable interest, although in humid media the surface regions of the nanoparticles undergo a conversion to a hydroxide phase. A facile method to obtain MgO nanoparticles with a large surface area and remarkable inertness to humidity is presented. The method involves (a) low temperature (400 °C) thermal decomposition of Mg(OH)2, (b) a silicone oxide coating to conceal the nanoparticles and prevent interparticle sintering upon exposure to high temperatures, and (c) heat treatment at 1000 °C. The formation of the hydroxide phase on these silicone oxide-coated MgO nanoparticles after extended exposure to humid air was assessed by thermogravimetry, infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The nanoparticles showed essentially no sign of any hydroxide phase compared to particles prepared by the conventional single-step thermal decomposition of Mg(OH)2. The moisture-resistant MgO nanoparticles showed improved dispersion and interfacial adhesion in the LDPE matrix with smaller nanosized particle clusters compared with conventionally prepared MgO. The addition of 1 wt % moisture-resistant MgO nanoparticles was sufficient to decrease the conductivity of polyethylene 30 times. The reduction in conductivity is discussed in terms of defect concentration on the surface of the moisture-resistant MgO nanoparticles at the polymer/nanoparticle interface.

Enhanced adherence of mouse fibroblast and vascular cells to plasma modified polyethylene.

PubMed

Reznickova, Alena; Novotna, Zdenka; Kolska, Zdenka; Kasalkova, Nikola Slepickova; Rimpelova, Silvie; Svorcik, Vaclav

2015-01-01

Since the last decade, tissue engineering has shown a sensational promise in providing more viable alternatives to surgical procedures for harvested tissues, implants and prostheses. Biomedical polymers, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), were activated by Ar plasma discharge. Degradation of polymer chains was examined by determination of the thickness of ablated layer. The amount of an ablated polymer layer was measured by gravimetry. Contact angle, measured by goniometry, was studied as a function of plasma exposure and post-exposure aging times. Chemical structure of modified polymers was characterized by angle resolved X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Surface chemistry and polarity of the samples were investigated by electrokinetic analysis. Changes in surface morphology were followed using atomic force microscopy. Cytocompatibility of plasma activated polyethylene foils was studied using two distinct model cell lines; VSMCs (vascular smooth muscle cells) as a model for vascular graft testing and connective tissue cells L929 (mouse fibroblasts) approved for standardized material cytotoxicity testing. Specifically, the cell number, morphology, and metabolic activity of the adhered and proliferated cells on the polyethylene matrices were studied in vitro. It was found that the plasma treatment caused ablation of the polymers, resulting in dramatic changes in their surface morphology and roughness. ARXPS and electrokinetic measurements revealed oxidation of the polymer surface. It was found that plasma activation has a positive effect on the adhesion and proliferation of VSMCs and L929 cells. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

7Li NMR spectroscopy and ion conduction mechanism in mesoporous silica (SBA-15) composite poly(ethylene oxide) electrolyte

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reddy, M. Jaipal; Chu, Peter P.

A composite of mesoporous silica (SBA-15) with a polyethylene oxide (PEO) polymer electrolyte is examined for use in various electrochemical devices. Incorporation of SBA-15 in a PEO:LiClO 4 polymer electrolyte facilitates salt dissociation, enhances ion conductivity, and improves miscibility between organic and inorganic moieties. Optimized conductivity is found at 10 wt.% SBA-15 composition, above this concentration the conductivity is reduced due to aggregation of a SBA-15:Li rich phase. Heating above melt temperature of PEO allows more of the polymer segments to interact with SBA-15. This results in a greater degree of disorder upon cooling, and the ion conductivity is enhanced. A 7Li MAS NMR study reveals three types of lithium-ion coordination. Two major types of conduction mechanism can be identified: one through conventional amorphous PEO; a second via hopping in a sequential manner by replacing the nearby vacancies ('holes') on the surface (both interior and exterior) of the SBA-15 channels.

Flexible Epoxy Resin Formed Upon Blending with a Triblock Copolymer through Reaction-Induced Microphase Separation

PubMed Central

Chu, Wei-Cheng; Lin, Wei-Sheng; Kuo, Shiao-Wei

2016-01-01

In this study, we used diglycidyl ether bisphenol A (DGEBA) as a matrix, the ABA block copolymer poly(ethylene oxide–b–propylene oxide–b–ethylene oxide) (Pluronic F127) as an additive, and diphenyl diaminosulfone (DDS) as a curing agent to prepare flexible epoxy resins through reaction-induced microphase separation (RIMPS). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the existence of hydrogen bonding between the poly(ethylene oxide) segment of F127 and the OH groups of the DGEBA resin. Small-angle X-ray scattering, atomic force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy all revealed evidence for the microphase separation of F127 within the epoxy resin. Glass transition temperature (Tg) phenomena and mechanical properties (modulus) were determined through differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis, respectively, of samples at various blend compositions. The modulus data provided evidence for the formation of wormlike micelle structures, through a RIMPS mechanism, in the flexible epoxy resin upon blending with the F127 triblock copolymer. PMID:28773571

Peroxide-mediated desulfurization of phosphorothioate oligonucleotides and its prevention.

PubMed

Krotz, Achim H; Mehta, Rahul C; Hardee, Gregory E

2005-02-01

Desulfurization at the internucleotide phosphorothioate linkage of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) in dermatological formulations has been investigated using strong ion exchange chromatography and mass spectroscopy. The formation of phosphate diester linkages appeared to arise from a reaction between the phosphorothioate oligonucleotide and a potent oxidizing agent. Screening of excipients used in the formulation indicated that the cause of desulfurization was related to the presence of polyethylene glycol-derived nonionic surfactants MYRJ 52 or BRIJ 58. Autoxidation of the polyethylene glycol chain is suggested as the probable origin for the observed incompatibility. The ability of various antioxidants to prevent oxidative degradation of ASO-1 in simple test systems and in oil-in-water emulsions is described. It is found that in test systems both lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidants are effective. However, in cream formulation (oil-in-water emulsions) of ASO-1 the addition of hydrophilic antioxidants L-cysteine or DL-alpha-lipoic acid has been shown to be superior in protecting the oligonucleotide from desulfurization upon storage. Copyright 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Drug delivery using novel nanoplexes against a Salmonella mouse infection model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ranjan, A.; Pothayee, N.; Seleem, M.; Jain, N.; Sriranganathan, N.; Riffle, J. S.; Kasimanickam, R.

2010-03-01

A novel methodology for incorporating gentamicin into macromolecular complexes with anionic homo- and block copolymers via cooperative electrostatic interactions is described. Block copolymers of poly(ethylene oxide- b-sodium acrylate) (PEO- b-PAA- +Na) or poly(ethylene oxide- b-sodium methacrylate) (PEO- b-PMA- +Na) were blended with PAA- Na+ and complexed with the polycationic antibiotic gentamicin. Gentamicin nanoplexes made with PEO- b-PMA- +Na/PAA- +Na (PMPG) and analogous nanoplexes with PEO- b-PAA- +Na/PAA- +Na (PAPG) had mean intensity average diameters of 120 and 90 nm, zeta potentials of -17 and -11 mv, and incorporated 26% and 23% by weight of gentamicin, respectively. Gentamicin release rates at physiological pH from nanoplexes were relatively slow. PAPG and PMPG as drug delivery systems for treating murine salmonellosis at doses similar to the free gentamicin experiments resulted in reduced numbers of viable bacteria in the liver and spleen. Polymeric nanoplexes developed by this methodology can potentially improve targeting of intracellular pathogens.

Micromixer based on viscoelastic flow instability at low Reynolds number.

PubMed

Lam, Y C; Gan, H Y; Nguyen, N T; Lie, H

2009-03-30

We exploited the viscoelasticity of biocompatible dilute polymeric solutions, namely, dilute poly(ethylene oxide) solutions, to significantly enhance mixing in microfluidic devices at a very small Reynolds number, i.e., Re approximately 0.023, but large Peclet and elasticity numbers. With an abrupt contraction microgeometry (8:1 contraction ratio), two different dilute poly(ethylene oxide) solutions were successfully mixed with a short flow length at a relatively fast mixing time of <10 mus. Microparticle image velocimetry was employed in our investigations to characterize the flow fields. The increase in velocity fluctuation with an increase in flow rate and Deborah number indicates the increase in viscoelastic flow instability. Mixing efficiency was characterized by fluorescent concentration measurements. Our results showed that enhanced mixing can be achieved through viscoelastic flow instability under situations where molecular-diffusion and inertia effects are negligible. This approach bypasses the laminar flow limitation, usually associated with a low Reynolds number, which is not conducive to mixing.

Micromixer based on viscoelastic flow instability at low Reynolds number

PubMed Central

Lam, Y. C.; Gan, H. Y.; Nguyen, N. T.; Lie, H.

2009-01-01

We exploited the viscoelasticity of biocompatible dilute polymeric solutions, namely, dilute poly(ethylene oxide) solutions, to significantly enhance mixing in microfluidic devices at a very small Reynolds number, i.e., Re≈0.023, but large Peclet and elasticity numbers. With an abrupt contraction microgeometry (8:1 contraction ratio), two different dilute poly(ethylene oxide) solutions were successfully mixed with a short flow length at a relatively fast mixing time of <10 μs. Microparticle image velocimetry was employed in our investigations to characterize the flow fields. The increase in velocity fluctuation with an increase in flow rate and Deborah number indicates the increase in viscoelastic flow instability. Mixing efficiency was characterized by fluorescent concentration measurements. Our results showed that enhanced mixing can be achieved through viscoelastic flow instability under situations where molecular-diffusion and inertia effects are negligible. This approach bypasses the laminar flow limitation, usually associated with a low Reynolds number, which is not conducive to mixing. PMID:19693399

Effect of Nanoparticles on the Morphology, Thermal, and Electrical Properties of Low-Density Polyethylene after Thermal Aging

PubMed Central

Wang, Youyuan; Zhang, Zhanxi; Xiao, Kun

2017-01-01

This paper investigates the morphology, thermal, and electrical properties of LDPE (low-density polyethylene)-based nanocomposites after thermal aging. The FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) spectra results show that thermo-oxidative reactions occur in neat LDPE and LDPE/SiO2 nanocomposites when the aging time is 35 days and in LDPE/MgO nanocomposites when the aging time is 77 days. Specifically, LDPE/MgO nanocomposites delay the appearance of thermo-oxidative reactions, showing anti-thermal aging ability. Furthermore, nanocomposites present lower onset degradation temperature than neat LDPE, showing better thermal stabilization. With regard to the electrical properties, nanocomposites maintain the ability to suppress space charge accumulation after thermal aging. Additionally, in comparison with SiO2 nanocomposites and neat LDPE, the permittivity of LDPE/MgO nanocomposites changes slightly after thermal aging. It is concluded that LDPE/MgO nanocomposites have better insulation properties than neat LDPE after thermal aging, which may be caused by the interface introduced by the nanoparticles. PMID:29023428

Toward ambient temperature operation with all-solid-state lithium metal batteries with a sp3 boron-based solid single ion conducting polymer electrolyte

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yunfeng; Cai, Weiwei; Rohan, Rupesh; Pan, Meize; Liu, Yuan; Liu, Xupo; Li, Cuicui; Sun, Yubao; Cheng, Hansong

2016-02-01

The ionic conductivity decay problem of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-based solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) when increase the lithium salt of the SPEs up to high concentration is here functionally overcome by the incorporation of a charge delocalized sp3 boron based single ion conducting polymer electrolyte (SIPE) with poly(ethylene oxide) to fabricate solid-state sp3 boron based SIPE membranes (S-BSMs). By characterizations, particularly differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and ionic conductivity studies, the fabricated S-BSMs showed decreased melting points and increased ionic conductivity as steadily increase the content of sp3 boron based SIPE, which significantly improved the low temperature performance of the all-solid-state lithium batteries. The fabricated Li | S-BSMs | LiFePO4 cells exhibit highly electrochemical stability and excellent cycling at temperature below melting point of PEO, which has never been reported so far for SIPEs based all-solid-state lithium batteries.

Effect of calcium-ozone treatment on chemical and biological properties of polyethylene terephthalate.

PubMed

Rashid, Ahmed Nafis; Tsuru, Kanji; Ishikawa, Kunio

2015-05-01

Ozone (O3 ) treatment of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in distilled water was performed in the presence and absence of calcium (Ca(2+) ). PET was oxidized and thus carboxylic and hydroxyl functional groups were introduced on its surface after O3 treatment, regardless of the presence or absence of Ca(2+) . In the case of O3 treatment with Ca(2+) , PET surface was modified with Ca(2+) . Ca(2+) immobilization was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectrometric analysis. Hydrophilicity was investigated by measuring contact angles (CA). CA of PET decreased significantly after ozonation. Surface topography of PET before and after ozone treatment was observed by scanning electron microscopy, and showed no morphological changes. In vitro studies showed enhanced rat bone marrow cell responses on the O3 -treated PET surface. Ca(2+) -O3 oxidation at 37°C for 6 h is expected to be an effective method to fabricate PET with good biocompatibility. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effect of Nanoparticles on the Morphology, Thermal, and Electrical Properties of Low-Density Polyethylene after Thermal Aging.

PubMed

Wang, Youyuan; Wang, Can; Zhang, Zhanxi; Xiao, Kun

2017-10-12

This paper investigates the morphology, thermal, and electrical properties of LDPE (low-density polyethylene)-based nanocomposites after thermal aging. The FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) spectra results show that thermo-oxidative reactions occur in neat LDPE and LDPE/SiO₂ nanocomposites when the aging time is 35 days and in LDPE/MgO nanocomposites when the aging time is 77 days. Specifically, LDPE/MgO nanocomposites delay the appearance of thermo-oxidative reactions, showing anti-thermal aging ability. Furthermore, nanocomposites present lower onset degradation temperature than neat LDPE, showing better thermal stabilization. With regard to the electrical properties, nanocomposites maintain the ability to suppress space charge accumulation after thermal aging. Additionally, in comparison with SiO₂ nanocomposites and neat LDPE, the permittivity of LDPE/MgO nanocomposites changes slightly after thermal aging. It is concluded that LDPE/MgO nanocomposites have better insulation properties than neat LDPE after thermal aging, which may be caused by the interface introduced by the nanoparticles.

The diffusion and conduction of lithium in poly(ethylene oxide)-based sulfonate ionomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LaFemina, Nikki H.; Chen, Quan; Colby, Ralph H.; Mueller, Karl T.

2016-09-01

Pulsed field gradient nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and dielectric relaxation spectroscopy have been utilized to investigate lithium dynamics within poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-based lithium sulfonate ionomers of varying ion content. The ion content is set by the fraction of sulfonated phthalates and the molecular weight of the PEO spacer, both of which can be varied independently. The molecular level dynamics of the ionomers are dominated by either Vogel-Fulcher-Tammann or Arrhenius behavior depending on ion content, spacer length, temperature, and degree of ionic aggregation. In these ionomers the main determinants of the self-diffusion of lithium and the observed conductivities are the ion content and ionic states of the lithium ion, which are profoundly affected by the interactions of the lithium ions with the ether oxygens of the polymer. Since many lithium ions move by segmental polymer motion in the ion pair state, their diffusion is significantly larger than that estimated from conductivity using the Nernst-Einstein equation.

Novel differential refractometry study of the enzymatic degradation kinetics of poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(epsilon-caprolactone) particles dispersed in water.

PubMed

Lam, HiuFung; Gong, Xiangjun; Wu, Chi

2007-02-22

A poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PEO-b-PCL) diblock copolymer was micronized into small micelle-like particles (approximately 80 nm) via dialysis-induced microphase inversion. The enzymatic biodegradation of the PCL portion of these particles in water was in situ investigated inside a recently developed novel differential refractometer. Using this refractometry method, we were able to monitor the real-time biodegradation via the refractive index change (Deltan) of the dispersion because Deltan is directly proportional to the particle mass concentration. We found that the degradation rate is proportional to either the polymer or enzyme concentration. Our results directly support previous speculation on the basis of the light-scattering data that the biodegradation follows the first-order kinetics for a given enzyme concentration. This study not only leads to a better understanding of the enzymatic biodegradation of PCL, but also demonstrates a novel, rapid, noninvasive, and convenient way to test the degradability of polymers.

Conformation and hydration of surface grafted and free polyethylene oxide chains in solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dahal, Udaya; Wang, Zilu; Dormidontova, Elena

Due to the wide application of polyethylene oxide (PEO), ranging from biomedicine to fuel cells, it is one of the most studied polymers in the scientific world. In order to elucidate detailed molecular-level insights on the impact of surface grafting on PEO conformation, we performed atomistic molecular dynamics simulations of PEO chains in solution and grafted to a flat gold surface in different solvents. We examined the hydration as well as conformation of the free chain compared to the grafted polymer in pure water and mixed solvents. We find that grafted chains are stiffer and have a stronger tendency to form helical structures in isobutyric acid or mixture of isobutyric acid and water solution than the free chains in corresponding solutions. For grafted chains exposed to pure water the random coil conformation is retained at low grafting density, but becomes stretched and more dehydrated as the grafting density or temperature increases. This research is supported by NSF (DMR-1410928).

Mechanisms of lithium transport in amorphous polyethylene oxide.

PubMed

Duan, Yuhua; Halley, J W; Curtiss, Larry; Redfern, Paul

2005-02-01

We report calculations using a previously reported model of lithium perchlorate in polyethylene oxide in order to understand the mechanism of lithium transport in these systems. Using an algorithm suggested by Voter, we find results for the diffusion rate which are quite close to experimental values. By analysis of the individual events in which large lithium motions occur during short times, we find that no single type of rearrangement of the lithium environment characterizes these events. We estimate the free energies of the lithium ion as a function of position during these events by calculation of potentials of mean force and thus derive an approximate map of the free energy as a function of lithium position during these events. The results are consistent with a Marcus-like picture in which the system slowly climbs a free energy barrier dominated by rearrangement of the polymer around the lithium ions, after which the lithium moves very quickly to a new position. Reducing the torsion forces in the model causes the diffusion rates to increase.

Polyethylene Oxide Films Polymerized by Radio Frequency Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapour Phase Deposition and Its Adsorption Behaviour of Platelet-Rich Plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Wen-Juan; Xie, Fen-Yan; Chen, Qiang; Weng, Jing

2008-10-01

We present polyethylene oxide (PEO) functional films polymerized by rf plasma-enhanced vapour chemical deposition (rf-PECVD) on p-Si (100) surface with precursor ethylene glycol dimethyl ether (EGDME) and diluted Ar in pulsed plasma mode. The influences of discharge parameters on the film properties and compounds are investigated. The film structure is analysed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The water contact angle measurement and atomic force microscope (AFM) are employed to examine the surface polarity and to detect surface morphology, respectively. It is concluded that the smaller duty cycle in pulsed plasma mode contributes to the rich C-O-C (EO) group on the surfaces. As an application, the adsorption behaviour of platelet-rich plasma on plasma polymerization films performed in-vitro is explored. The shapes of attached cells are studied in detail by an optic invert microscope, which clarifies that high-density C-O-C groups on surfaces are responsible for non-fouling adsorption behaviour of the PEO films.

Probing the Conformational Landscape of Polyether Building Blocks in Supersonic Jets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bocklitz, Sebastian; Hewett, Daniel M.; Zwier, Timothy S.; Suhm, Martin A.

2016-06-01

Polyethylene oxides (Polyethylene glycoles) and their phenoxy-capped analogs represent a prominent class of important polymers that are highly used as precursor molecules in supramolecular reactions. After a detailed study on the simplest representative (1,2-dimethoxyethane) [1], we present results on oligoethylene oxides with increasing chain lengths obtained by spontaneous Raman scattering in a supersonic jet. Through variation of stagnation pressure, carrier gas, nozzle distance and temperature we gain information on the conformational landscape as well as the mutual interconversion of low energy conformers. The obtained results are compared to state-of-the-art quantum chemical calculations. Additionally, we present UV as well as IR-UV and UV-UV double resonance studies on 1-methoxy-2-phenoxyethane in a supersonic jet. These complementary techniques allow for conformationally selective electronic and vibrational spectra in a closely related conformational landscape. [1] S. Bocklitz, M. A. Suhm, Constraining the Conformational Landscape of a Polyether Building Block by Raman Jet Spectroscopy, Z. Phys. Chem. 2015, 229, 1625-1648.

Unusual kinetics of poly(ethylene glycol) oxidation with cerium(IV) ions in sulfuric acid medium and implications for copolymer synthesis.

PubMed

Szymański, Jan K; Temprano-Coleto, Fernando; Pérez-Mercader, Juan

2015-03-14

The cerium(IV)-alcohol couple in an acidic medium is an example of a redox system capable of initiating free radical polymerization. When the alcohol has a polymeric nature, the outcome of such a process is a block copolymer, a member of a class of compounds possessing many useful properties. The most common polymer with a terminal -OH group is poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG); however, the detailed mechanism of its reaction with cerium(IV) remains underexplored. In this paper, we report our findings for this reaction based on spectrophotometric measurements and kinetic modeling. We find that both the reaction order and the net rate constant for the oxidation process depend strongly on the nature of the acidic medium used. In order to account for the experimental observations, we postulate that protonation of PEG decreases its affinity for some of the cerium(IV)-sulfate complexes formed in the system.

Metal adsorption of gamma-irradiated carboxymethyl cellulose/polyethylene oxide blend films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

El-Naggar, Amal A.; Magida, M. M.; Ibrahim, Sayeda M.

2016-03-01

Blend films of different ratios of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)/polyethylene oxide (PEO) were prepared by the solution casting method. To investigate the effect of irradiation on all properties of prepared blend, it was exposed to different gamma irradiation doses (10, 20, and 30 kGy). Physical properties such as gel fraction (GF) (%) and swelling (SW) (%) were investigated. It was found that the GF (%) increases with increasing irradiation dose up to 20 kGy, while SW (%) decreases with an increase in the irradiation doses for all blend compositions. Moreover, the structural and mechanical properties of the prepared films were studied. The results of the mechanical properties obtained showed that there is an improvement in these properties with an increase in both CMC and irradiation dose up to 20 kGy. The efficiency of metal ions uptake was measured using a UV spectrophotometer. The prepared films showed good tendency to absorb and release metal ions from aqueous media. Thus, the CMC/PEO film can be used in agricultural domain.

Stability and effectiveness against bacterial adhesion of poly(ethylene oxide) coatings in biological fluids.

PubMed

Roosjen, Astrid; de Vries, Joop; van der Mei, Henny C; Norde, Willem; Busscher, Henk J

2005-05-01

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) coatings have been shown to reduce the adhesion of different microbial strains and species and thus are promising as coatings to prevent biomaterial-centered infection of medical implants. Clinically, however, PEO coatings are not yet applied, as little is known about their stability and effectiveness in biological fluids. In this study, PEO coatings coupled to a glass substratum through silyl ether bonds were exposed for different time intervals to saliva, urine, or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) as a reference at 37 degrees C. After exposure, the effectiveness of the coatings against bacterial adhesion was assessed in a parallel plate flow chamber. The coatings appeared effective against Staphylococcus epidermidis adhesion for 24, 48, and 0.5 h in PBS, urine, and saliva, respectively. Using XPS and contact-angle measurements, the variations in effectiveness could be attributed to conditioning film formation. The overall short stability results from hydrolysis of the coupling of the PEO chains to the substratum. (c) 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A dendrite-suppressing composite ion conductor from aramid nanofibres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tung, Siu-On; Ho, Szushen; Yang, Ming; Zhang, Ruilin; Kotov, Nicholas A.

2015-01-01

Dendrite growth threatens the safety of batteries by piercing the ion-transporting separators between the cathode and anode. Finding a dendrite-suppressing material that combines high modulus and high ionic conductance has long been considered a major technological and materials science challenge. Here we demonstrate that these properties can be attained in a composite made from Kevlar-derived aramid nanofibres assembled in a layer-by-layer manner with poly(ethylene oxide). Importantly, the porosity of the membranes is smaller than the growth area of the dendrites so that aramid nanofibres eliminate ‘weak links’ where the dendrites pierce the membranes. The aramid nanofibre network suppresses poly(ethylene oxide) crystallization detrimental for ion transport, giving a composite that exhibits high modulus, ionic conductivity, flexibility, ion flux rates and thermal stability. Successful suppression of hard copper dendrites by the composite ion conductor at extreme discharge conditions is demonstrated, thereby providing a new approach for the materials engineering of solid ion conductors.

The Molecular Level Characterization of Biodegradable Polymers Originated from Polyethylene Using Non-Oxygenated Polyethylene Wax as a Carbon Source for Polyhydroxyalkanoate Production.

PubMed

Johnston, Brian; Jiang, Guozhan; Hill, David; Adamus, Grazyna; Kwiecień, Iwona; Zięba, Magdalena; Sikorska, Wanda; Green, Matthew; Kowalczuk, Marek; Radecka, Iza

2017-08-28

There is an increasing demand for bio-based polymers that are developed from recycled materials. The production of biodegradable polymers can include bio-technological (utilizing microorganisms or enzymes) or chemical synthesis procedures. This report demonstrates the corroboration of the molecular structure of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) obtained by the conversion of waste polyethylene (PE) via non-oxygenated PE wax (N-PEW) as an additional carbon source for a bacterial species. The N-PEW, obtained from a PE pyrolysis reaction, has been found to be a beneficial carbon source for PHA production with Cupriavidus necator H16. The production of the N-PEW is an alternative to oxidized polyethylene wax (O-PEW) (that has been used as a carbon source previously) as it is less time consuming to manufacture and offers fewer industrial applications. A range of molecular structural analytical techniques were performed on the PHAs obtained; which included nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electrospray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS). Our study showed that the PHA formed from N-PEW contained 3-hydroxybutyrate (HB) with 11 mol% of 3-hydroxyvalerate (HV) units.

Melting, crystallization and storage stability of virgin coconut oil and its blends by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).

PubMed

Srivastava, Yashi; Semwal, Anil Dutt; Sajeevkumar, Vallayil Appukuttan; Sharma, G K

2017-01-01

The blends were prepared of virgin coconut oil with refined soyabean oil (VCO-RSOY) and refined safflower oil (VCO-RSAFF). Blending with VCO improved the fatty acid composition which increased the shelf stability of 20:80 VCO-RSOY and VCO-RSAFF up to 12 months in different packaging systems such as low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, metalized polyester pouches, polyethylene teteraphthalate, high density polyethylene (HDPE), Amber HDPE bottle. The specific spectral regions of FTIR proved to be very useful for the determination of adulteration as well as for the study of oxidation process. Band shifts observed at 3008, 1652, 1397, 1097, 912 and 845 cm -1 have been used to differentiate RSAFF from VCO. VCO spectrums did not have these chemical shifts. Further the spectrum of RSOY showed same band shifts as RSAFF except 1652, 1397, 869.6 and 845 cm -1 . Differential Scanning Calorimetry provided useful information regarding the nature of thermodynamic changes related to physical state of vegetable oil. The physical state changes included melting and crystallization events which require the intake and release of energy.

The Molecular Level Characterization of Biodegradable Polymers Originated from Polyethylene Using Non-Oxygenated Polyethylene Wax as a Carbon Source for Polyhydroxyalkanoate Production

PubMed Central

Johnston, Brian; Jiang, Guozhan; Hill, David; Adamus, Grazyna; Zięba, Magdalena; Sikorska, Wanda; Green, Matthew; Kowalczuk, Marek

2017-01-01

There is an increasing demand for bio-based polymers that are developed from recycled materials. The production of biodegradable polymers can include bio-technological (utilizing microorganisms or enzymes) or chemical synthesis procedures. This report demonstrates the corroboration of the molecular structure of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) obtained by the conversion of waste polyethylene (PE) via non-oxygenated PE wax (N-PEW) as an additional carbon source for a bacterial species. The N-PEW, obtained from a PE pyrolysis reaction, has been found to be a beneficial carbon source for PHA production with Cupriavidus necator H16. The production of the N-PEW is an alternative to oxidized polyethylene wax (O-PEW) (that has been used as a carbon source previously) as it is less time consuming to manufacture and offers fewer industrial applications. A range of molecular structural analytical techniques were performed on the PHAs obtained; which included nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electrospray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS). Our study showed that the PHA formed from N-PEW contained 3-hydroxybutyrate (HB) with 11 mol% of 3-hydroxyvalerate (HV) units. PMID:28952552

The John Charnley Award Paper. The role of joint fluid in the tribology of total joint arthroplasty.

PubMed

Mazzucco, Daniel; Spector, Myron

2004-12-01

The effect of joint fluid on the tribology (ie, lubrication, friction, and wear) of total hip arthroplasty has not yet been investigated adequately. In the current study, a friction assay was used to assess four hypotheses relating to the effect of human joint fluid and its principal components on the articulation of metal-on-polyethylene. First, joint fluid was found to produce a widely varying amount of friction between cobalt-chromium and polyethylene; this range exceeded the range produced when the articulation was lubricated by water or bovine serum. Second, it was shown that hyaluronic acid, phospholipid, albumin, and gamma-globulin were not acting as boundary lubricants, but that one or more other proteins (as yet unidentified) were responsible for reducing friction in this couple. Third, lower friction was found when oxidized zirconium alloy replaced cobalt-chromium as a bearing surface on polyethylene. Finally, a pilot study suggested that lubricin, which contributes to cartilage-on-cartilage lubrication, is not a protein responsible for the tribological variabiation found among joint fluid samples. The current study showed that joint fluid is a patient factor that influences the tribology of metal-on-polyethylene arthroplasty.

Degradation and metabolism of synthetic plastics and associated products by Pseudomonas sp.: capabilities and challenges.

PubMed

Wilkes, R A; Aristilde, L

2017-09-01

Synthetic plastics, which are widely present in materials of everyday use, are ubiquitous and slowly-degrading polymers in environmental wastes. Of special interest are the capabilities of microorganisms to accelerate their degradation. Members of the metabolically diverse genus Pseudomonas are of particular interest due to their capabilities to degrade and metabolize synthetic plastics. Pseudomonas species isolated from environmental matrices have been identified to degrade polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene succinate, polyethylene glycol and polyvinyl alcohol at varying degrees of efficiency. Here, we present a review of the current knowledge on the factors that control the ability of Pseudomonas sp. to process these different plastic polymers and their by-products. These factors include cell surface attachment within biofilms, catalytic enzymes involved in oxidation or hydrolysis of the plastic polymer, metabolic pathways responsible for uptake and assimilation of plastic fragments and chemical factors that are advantageous or inhibitory to the biodegradation process. We also highlight future research directions required in order to harness fully the capabilities of Pseudomonas sp. in bioremediation strategies towards eliminating plastic wastes. © 2017 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

Iron oxide/cassava starch-supported Ziegler-Natta catalysts for in situ ethylene polymerization.

PubMed

Chancharoenrith, Sittikorn; Kamonsatikul, Choavarit; Namkajorn, Montree; Kiatisevi, Supavadee; Somsook, Ekasith

2015-03-06

Iron oxide nanoparticles were used as supporters for in situ polymerization to produce polymer nanocomposites with well-dispersed fillers in polymer matrix. Iron oxide could be sustained as colloidal solutions by cassava starch to produce a good dispersion of iron oxide in the matrix. New supports based on iron oxide/cassava starch or cassava starch for Ziegler-Natta catalysts were utilized as heterogeneous supporters for partially hydrolyzed triethylaluminum. Then, TiCl4 was immobilized on the supports as catalysts for polymerization of ethylene. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites were obtained by the synthesized catalysts. A good dispersion of iron oxide/cassava starch particles was observed in the synthesized polymer matrix promoting to good mechanical properties of HDPE. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optical Sound Generation and Amplification

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-01-15

acoustic cavitation threshold of water with concentration of the polymer additives polyethylene oxide and guar gum . It was found that small amounts of...Technical Library 2800 Powder Mill Road Adelphi, Maryland 20783 1 copy 3 copies 1 copy 1 copy 1 copy 1 copy 1 copy Naval Air Development Center

21 CFR 177.1620 - Polyethylene, oxidized.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic...,200, as determined by high temperature vapor pressure osmometry, contains a maximum of 5 percent by weight of total oxygen, and has an acid value of 9 to 19. (b) The finished food-contact article, when...

21 CFR 177.1620 - Polyethylene, oxidized.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic...,200, as determined by high temperature vapor pressure osmometry, contains a maximum of 5 percent by weight of total oxygen, and has an acid value of 9 to 19. (b) The finished food-contact article, when...

21 CFR 177.1620 - Polyethylene, oxidized.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic...,200, as determined by high temperature vapor pressure osmometry, contains a maximum of 5 percent by weight of total oxygen, and has an acid value of 9 to 19. (b) The finished food-contact article, when...

21 CFR 177.1620 - Polyethylene, oxidized.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic...,200, as determined by high temperature vapor pressure osmometry, contains a maximum of 5 percent by weight of total oxygen, and has an acid value of 9 to 19. (b) The finished food-contact article, when...

Supramolecular Inclusion in Cyclodextrins: A Pictorial Spectroscopic Demonstration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haldar, Basudeb; Mallick, Arabinda; Chattopadhyay, Nitin

2008-01-01

A spectroscopic experiment is presented that reveals that the hydrophobically end-modified water-soluble polymeric fluorophore, pyrene end-capped poly(ethylene oxide) (PYPY), interacts differently with [alpha], [beta], and [gamma]-cyclodextrins (CD) to form supramolecular inclusion complexes. The emission spectrum of PYPY in aqueous solution shows…

Monolayers of derivatized poly(l-lysine)-grafted poly(ethylene glycol) on metal oxides as a class of biomolecular interfaces

PubMed Central

Ruiz-Taylor, L. A.; Martin, T. L.; Zaugg, F. G.; Witte, K.; Indermuhle, P.; Nock, S.; Wagner, P.

2001-01-01

We report on the design and characterization of a class of biomolecular interfaces based on derivatized poly(l-lysine)-grafted poly(ethylene glycol) copolymers adsorbed on negatively charged surfaces. As a model system, we synthesized biotin-derivatized poly(l-lysine)-grafted poly(ethylene glycol) copolymers, PLL-g-[(PEGm)(1−x) (PEG-biotin)x], where x varies from 0 to 1. Monolayers were produced on titanium dioxide substrates and characterized by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The specific biorecognition properties of these biotinylated surfaces were investigated with the use of radiolabeled streptavidin alone and within complex protein mixtures. The PLL-g-PEG-biotin monolayers specifically capture streptavidin, even from a complex protein mixture, while still preventing nonspecific adsorption of other proteins. This streptavidin layer can subsequently capture biotinylated proteins. Finally, with the use of microfluidic networks and protein arraying, we demonstrate the potential of this class of biomolecular interfaces for applications based on protein patterning. PMID:11158560

The Gamma-Ray Laser Project

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-10-01

rabbits, P to flat planchettes , F to metallic foils, and B to scintillation bottles. The 18Ta sample consisted of a dusting of oxide on a thin aluminum...slower class consisted either of thin metallic disks or metallic chips or chemical compounds contained within flat polyethylene planchettes . 16 N00014-86

21 CFR 177.1620 - Polyethylene, oxidized.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... temperature vapor pressure osmometry, contains a maximum of 5 percent by weight of total oxygen, and has an acid value of 9 to 19. (b) The finished food-contact article, when extracted with the solvent or solvents characterizing the type of food and under the conditions of time and temperature characterizing...

Electrode-Impregnable and Cross-Linkable Poly(ethylene oxide)-Poly(propylene oxide)-Poly(ethylene oxide) Triblock Polymer Electrolytes with High Ionic Conductivity and a Large Voltage Window for Flexible Solid-State Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Han, Jae Hee; Lee, Jang Yong; Suh, Dong Hack; Hong, Young Taik; Kim, Tae-Ho

2017-10-04

We present cross-linkable precursor-type gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) that have large ionic liquid uptake capability, can easily penetrate electrodes, have high ion conductivity, and are mechanically strong as high-performance, flexible all-solid-state supercapacitors (SC). Our polymer precursors feature a hydrophilic-hydrophobic poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) triblock main-chain structure and trifunctional silane end groups that can be multi-cross-linked with each other through a sol-gel process. The cross-linked solid-state electrolyte film with moderate IL content (200 wt %) shows a well-balanced combination of excellent ionic conductivity (5.0 × 10 -3 S cm -1 ) and good mechanical stability (maximum strain = 194%). Moreover, our polymer electrolytes have various advantages including high thermal stability (decomposition temperature > 330 °C) and the capability to impregnate electrodes to form an excellent electrode-electrolyte interface due to the very low viscosity of the precursors. By assembling our GPE-impregnated electrodes and solid-state GPE film, we demonstrate an all-solid-state SC that can operate at 3 V and provides an improved specific capacitance (112.3 F g -1 at 0.1 A g -1 ), better rate capability (64% capacity retention until 20 A g -1 ), and excellent cycle stability (95% capacitance decay over 10 000 charge/discharge cycles) compared with those of a reference SC using a conventional PEO electrolyte. Finally, flexible SCs with a high energy density (22.6 W h kg -1 at 1 A g -1 ) and an excellent flexibility (>93% capacitance retention after 5000 bending cycles) can successfully be obtained.

Healthy aging diets other than the Mediterranean: a focus on the Okinawan diet.

PubMed

Willcox, Donald Craig; Scapagnini, Giovanni; Willcox, Bradley J

2014-01-01

The traditional diet in Okinawa is anchored by root vegetables (principally sweet potatoes), green and yellow vegetables, soybean-based foods, and medicinal plants. Marine foods, lean meats, fruit, medicinal garnishes and spices, tea, alcohol are also moderately consumed. Many characteristics of the traditional Okinawan diet are shared with other healthy dietary patterns, including the traditional Mediterranean diet, DASH diet, and Portfolio diet. All these dietary patterns are associated with reduced risk for cardiovascular disease, among other age-associated diseases. Overall, the important shared features of these healthy dietary patterns include: high intake of unrefined carbohydrates, moderate protein intake with emphasis on vegetables/legumes, fish, and lean meats as sources, and a healthy fat profile (higher in mono/polyunsaturated fats, lower in saturated fat; rich in omega-3). The healthy fat intake is likely one mechanism for reducing inflammation, optimizing cholesterol, and other risk factors. Additionally, the lower caloric density of plant-rich diets results in lower caloric intake with concomitant high intake of phytonutrients and antioxidants. Other shared features include low glycemic load, less inflammation and oxidative stress, and potential modulation of aging-related biological pathways. This may reduce risk for chronic age-associated diseases and promote healthy aging and longevity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Healthy aging diets other than the Mediterranean: A Focus on the Okinawan Diet

PubMed Central

Willcox, Donald Craig; Scapagnini, Giovanni; Willcox, Bradley J.

2014-01-01

The traditional diet in Okinawa is anchored by root vegetables (principally sweet potatoes), green and yellow vegetables, soybean-based foods, and medicinal plants. Marine foods, lean meats, fruit, medicinal garnishes and spices, tea, alcohol are also moderately consumed. Many characteristics of the traditional Okinawan diet are shared with other healthy dietary patterns, including the traditional Mediterranean diet, DASH diet, and Portfolio diet. All these dietary patterns are associated with reduced risk for cardiovascular disease, among other age-associated diseases. Overall, the important shared features of these healthy dietary patterns include: high intake of unrefined carbohydrates, moderate protein intake with emphasis on vegetables/legumes, fish, and lean meats as sources, and a healthy fat profile (higher in mono/polyunsaturated fats, lower in saturated fat; rich in omega-3). The healthy fat intake is likely one mechanism for reducing inflammation, optimizing cholesterol, and other risk factors. Additionally, the lower caloric density of plant-rich diets results in lower caloric intake with concomitant high intake of phytonutrients and antioxidants. Other shared features include low glycemic load, less inflammation and oxidative stress, and potential modulation of aging-related biological pathways. This may reduce risk for chronic age-associated diseases and promote healthy aging and longevity. PMID:24462788

The evaluation of physical properties of injection molded systems based on poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO).

PubMed

Pajander, Jari; Rensonnet, Alexia; Hietala, Sami; Rantanen, Jukka; Baldursdottir, Stefania

2017-02-25

The effect of product design parameters on the formation and properties of an injection molded solid dosage form consisting of poly(ethylene oxide)s (PEO) and two different active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) was studied. The product design parameters explored were melting temperature and the duration of melting, API loading degree and the molecular weight (M w ) of PEO. The solid form composition of the model APIs, theophylline and carbamazepine, was of specific interest, and its possible impact on the in vitro drug release behavior. M w of PEO had the greatest impact on the release rate of both APIs. High M w resulted in slower API release rate. Process temperature had two-fold effect with PEO 300,000g/mol. Firstly, higher process temperature transformed the crystalline part of the polymer into metastable folded form (more folded crystalline regions) and less into the more stable extended form (more extended crystalline regions), which lead to enhanced theophylline release rate. Secondly, the higher process temperature seemed to induce carbamazepine polymorphic transformation from p-monoclinic form III (carbamazepine (M)) into trigonal form II (carbamazepine (T)). The results indicated that the actual content of carbamazepine (T) affected drug release behavior more than the magnitude of transformation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dextran and Polymer Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Coating Reduce Both 5 and 30 nm Iron Oxide Nanoparticle Cytotoxicity in 2D and 3D Cell Culture

PubMed Central

Yu, Miao; Huang, Shaohui; Yu, Kevin Jun; Clyne, Alisa Morss

2012-01-01

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles are widely used in biomedical applications, yet questions remain regarding the effect of nanoparticle size and coating on nanoparticle cytotoxicity. In this study, porcine aortic endothelial cells were exposed to 5 and 30 nm diameter iron oxide nanoparticles coated with either the polysaccharide, dextran, or the polymer polyethylene glycol (PEG). Nanoparticle uptake, cytotoxicity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, and cell morphology changes were measured. Endothelial cells took up nanoparticles of all sizes and coatings in a dose dependent manner, and intracellular nanoparticles remained clustered in cytoplasmic vacuoles. Bare nanoparticles in both sizes induced a more than 6 fold increase in cell death at the highest concentration (0.5 mg/mL) and led to significant cell elongation, whereas cell viability and morphology remained constant with coated nanoparticles. While bare 30 nm nanoparticles induced significant ROS formation, neither 5 nm nanoparticles (bare or coated) nor 30 nm coated nanoparticles changed ROS levels. Furthermore, nanoparticles were more toxic at lower concentrations when cells were cultured within 3D gels. These results indicate that both dextran and PEG coatings reduce nanoparticle cytotoxicity, however different mechanisms may be important for different size nanoparticles. PMID:22754315

Enhanced the performance of graphene oxide/polyimide hybrid membrane for CO2 separation by surface modification of graphene oxide using polyethylene glycol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Li-guang; Yang, Cai-hong; Wang, Ting; Zhang, Xue-yang

2018-05-01

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) with different molecular weights was first used to modify graphene oxide (GO) samples. Subsequently, polyimide (PI) hybrid membranes containing modified-GO were fabricated via in situ polymerization. The separation performance of these hybrid membranes was evaluated using permeation experiments for CO2 and N2 gases. The morphology characterization showed that PEG with suitable molecular weight could be successfully grafted on the GO surface. PEG modification altered the surface properties of GO and introduced defective structures onto GO surface. This caused strong surface polarity and high free volume of membranes containing PEG-modified GO, thereby improving the separation performance of membranes. The addition of PEG-GO with low molecular weight effectively increased gas diffusion through hybrid membranes. The hybrid membranes containing PEG-GO with large molecular weight had high solubility performance for CO2 gas due to the introduction of numerous polar groups into polymeric membranes. With the loading content of modified GO, the CO2 gas permeability of hybrid membranes initially increased but eventually decreased. The optimal content of modified GO in membranes reached 3.0 wt%. When too much PEG added (exceeding 30 g), some impurities formed on GO surface and some aggregates appeared in the resulting hybrid membrane, which depressed the membrane performance.

Compatibility study of a parenteral microdose polyethylene glycol formulation in medical devices and identification of degradation impurity by 2D-LC/MS.

PubMed

Dai, Lulu; Yeh, Geoffrey K; Ran, Yingqing; Yehl, Peter; Zhang, Kelly

2017-04-15

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) based formulation and polyvinylchloride (PVC) tubing are frequently used for drug delivery and administration. The compatibility of a parenteral drug microdose formulation in intravenous infusion (IV) devices was studied to support the clinical determination of absolute bioavailability by the microdosing method. The investigational microdose formulation containing PEG was found prone to significant loss of potency within hours of storage in the PVC IV tubing due to degradation. Degradation occurred only when both PEG and PVC tubing were present. The degradation product could not be detected by LC/MS due to the significant interference from the high concentration of PEG (4%) matrix and the extremely low level of drug (0.6ppm). To obtain structural information of the degradation impurity and understand the cause of the degradation, a simple heart-cutting 2D-LC/MS approach was utilized to effectively separate the impurity from the complex PEG oligomers and overcome the matrix interference, enabling mass spectrometric analysis of the impurity. An oxidation- dominated mechanism was proposed in which the combination of PEG auto-oxidation and dehydrochlorination of the PVC tubing yielded an oxidative environment that enhanced radical propagation and accelerated degradation of the investigational parent drug. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Pulsed laser deposition of transparent conductive oxide thin films on flexible substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Socol, G.; Socol, M.; Stefan, N.; Axente, E.; Popescu-Pelin, G.; Craciun, D.; Duta, L.; Mihailescu, C. N.; Mihailescu, I. N.; Stanculescu, A.; Visan, D.; Sava, V.; Galca, A. C.; Luculescu, C. R.; Craciun, V.

2012-11-01

The influence of target-substrate distance during pulsed laser deposition of indium zinc oxide (IZO), indium tin oxide (ITO) and aluminium-doped zinc oxide (AZO) thin films grown on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates was investigated. It was found that the properties of such flexible transparent conductive oxide (TCO)/PET electrodes critically depend on this parameter. The TCO films that were deposited at distances of 6 and 8 cm exhibited an optical transmittance higher than 90% in the visible range and electrical resistivities around 5 × 10-4 Ω cm. In addition to these excellent electrical and optical characteristics the films grown at 8 cm distance were homogenous, smooth, adherent, and without cracks or any other extended defects, being suitable for opto-electronic device applications.

Mesoporous CeO2 nanoparticles synthesized by an inverse miniemulsion technique and their catalytic properties in methane oxidation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nabih, Nermeen; Schiller, Renate; Lieberwirth, Ingo; Kockrick, Emanuel; Frind, Robert; Kaskel, Stefan; Weiss, Clemens K.; Landfester, Katharina

2011-04-01

Cerium(IV) oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using an inverse miniemulsion technique with cerium nitrate hexahydrate as precursor. The resulting nanocrystallites are as small as 5 nm with a specific surface area of 158 m2 g - 1 after calcination at 400 °C. With the addition of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) or (poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(propylene oxide)-b-poly(ethylene oxide)) triblock copolymers (PEO-PPO-PEO) as template in the miniemulsion droplets, the specific surface area can be increased up to 255 m2 g - 1. The miniemulsions were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and the obtained oxides were examined by x-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen sorption (BET and BJH), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The catalytic activity of the resulting ceria was investigated for the temperature-programmed oxidation (TPO) of methane.

Determination of the surface area of smectite in water by ethylene oxide chain adsorption.

PubMed

Yuang, Paul-Cheng; Shen, Yun-Hwei

2005-05-15

This study investigates the feasibility of using ethylene oxide (EO) chain adsorption to determine the surface area of smectite in water. Experimental results indicate that high-molecular-weight poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) should be used to provide reasonable estimations for monolayer capacity of PEO on smectite. The surface areas of smectites in water are calculated from the monolayer capacity of PEO adsorbed on smectite by taking the area per EO unit as 8.05 A(2). The method measures the actual surface area of smectite exposed when dispersed in water, which is important to applications of smectite under aqueous conditions.

Development of Iron-Chelating Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Packaging for Inhibiting Lipid Oxidation in Oil-in-Water Emulsions.

PubMed

Johnson, David R; Tian, Fang; Roman, Maxine J; Decker, Eric A; Goddard, Julie M

2015-05-27

Foods such as bulk oils, salad dressings, and nutritionally fortified beverages that are susceptible to oxidative degradation are often packaged in poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) bottles with metal chelators added to the food to maintain product quality. In the present work, a metal-chelating active packaging material is designed and characterized, in which poly(hydroxamic acid) (PHA) metal-chelating moieties were grafted from the surface of PET. Biomimetic PHA groups were grafted in a two-step UV-initiated process without the use of a photoinitiator. Surface characterization of the films by attenuated total reflective Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) suggested successful grafting and conversion of poly(hydroxyethyl acrylate) (PHEA) to PHA chelating moieties from the surface of PET. Colorimetric (ferrozine) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) assays demonstrated the ability of PET-g-PHA to chelate iron in a low-pH (3.0) environment containing a competitive metal chelator (citric acid). Lipid oxidation studies demonstrated the antioxidant activity of PET-g-PHA films in inhibiting iron-promoted oxidation in an acidified oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion model system (pH 3.0). Particle size and ζ-potential analysis indicated that the addition of PET-g-PHA films did not affect the physical stability of the emulsion system. This work suggests that biomimetic chelating moieties can be grafted from PET and effectively inhibit iron-promoted degradation reactions, enabling removal of metal-chelating additives from product formulations.

Nitric Oxide Dependent Degradation of Polyethylene Glycol-Modified Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes: Implications for Intra-Articular Delivery.

PubMed

Bhattacharya, Kunal; Sacchetti, Cristiano; Costa, Pedro M; Sommertune, Jens; Brandner, Birgit D; Magrini, Andrea; Rosato, Nicola; Bottini, Nunzio; Bottini, Massimo; Fadeel, Bengt

2018-03-01

Polyethylene glycol (PEG)-modified carbon nanotubes have been successfully employed for intra-articular delivery in mice without systemic or local toxicity. However, the fate of the delivery system itself remains to be understood. In this study 2 kDa PEG-modified single-walled carbon nanotubes (PNTs) are synthesized, and trafficking and degradation following intra-articular injection into the knee-joint of healthy mice are studied. Using confocal Raman microspectroscopy, PNTs can be imaged in the knee-joint and are found to either egress from the synovial cavity or undergo biodegradation over a period of 3 weeks. Raman analysis discloses that PNTs are oxidatively degraded mainly in the chondrocyte-rich cartilage and meniscus regions while PNTs can also be detected in the synovial membrane regions, where macrophages can be found. Furthermore, using murine chondrocyte (ATDC-5) and macrophage (RAW264.7) cell lines, biodegradation of PNTs in activated, nitric oxide (NO)-producing chondrocytes, which is blocked upon pharmacological inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), can be shown. Biodegradation of PNTs in macrophages is also noted, but after a longer period of incubation. Finally, cell-free degradation of PNTs upon incubation with the peroxynitrite-generating compound, SIN-1 is demonstrated. The present study paves the way for the use of PNTs as delivery systems in the treatment of diseases of the joint. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Halophilic Amylase from a Moderately Halophilic Micrococcus

PubMed Central

Onishi, Hiroshi

1972-01-01

A moderately halophilic Micrococcus sp., isolated from unrefined solar salt, produced a considerable amount of extracellular dextrinogenic amylase when cultivated aerobically in media containing 1 to 3 m NaCl. The Micrococcus amylase had maximal activity at pH 6 to 7 in 1.4 to 2 m NaCl or KCl at 50 C. Calcium ion and a high concentration of NaCl or KCl were essential for activity and stability of the amylase. The salt response of the amylase depended greatly on the pH and temperature of the enzyme assay. PMID:5058445

Titanium-silicon oxide film structures for polarization-modulated infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Dunlop, Iain E.; Zorn, Stefan; Richter, Gunther; Srot, Vesna; Kelsch, Marion; van Aken, Peter A.; Skoda, Maximilian; Gerlach, Alexander; Spatz, Joachim P.; Schreiber, Frank

2010-01-01

We present a titanium-silicon oxide film structure that permits polarization modulated infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy on silicon oxide surfaces. The structure consists of a ~6 nm sputtered silicon oxide film on a ~200 nm sputtered titanium film. Characterization using conventional and scanning transmission electron microscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray reflectometry is presented. We demonstrate the use of this structure to investigate a selectively protein-resistant self-assembled monolayer (SAM) consisting of silane-anchored, biotin-terminated poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). PEG-associated IR bands were observed. Measurements of protein-characteristic band intensities showed that this SAM adsorbed streptavidin whereas it repelled bovine serum albumin, as had been expected from its structure. PMID:20418963

Cellulose Nanocrystals vs. Cellulose Nanofibrils: A Comparative study on Their Microstructures and Effects as Polymer Reinforcing Agents

Treesearch

Xuezhu Xu; Fei Liu; Long Jiang; J.Y. Zhu; Darrin Haagenson; Dennis P. Wiesenborn

2013-01-01

Both cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) are nanoscale cellulose fibers that have shown reinforcing effects in polymer nanocomposites. CNCs and CNFs are different in shape, size and composition. This study systematically compared their morphologies, crystalline structure, dispersion properties in polyethylene oxide (PEO) matrix, interactions...

21 CFR 172.260 - Oxidized polyethylene.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... ADDITIVES PERMITTED FOR DIRECT ADDITION TO FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION Coatings, Films and Related Substances... average molecular weight of 1,200, as determined by high temperature vapor pressure osmometry; contains a maximum of 5 percent by weight of total oxygen; and has an acid value of 9 to 19. (b) The additive is used...

21 CFR 172.820 - Polyethylene glycol (mean molecular weight 200-9,500).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

...: (a) Identity. (1) The additive is an addition polymer of ethylene oxide and water with a mean... diatomaceous earth (Chromosorb W. Johns-Manville, or equivalent). reagents and materials Carrier gas, nitrogen: Commercial grade in cylinder equipped with reducing regulator to provide 50 p.s.i.g. to the gas chromatograph...

Comparison of mechanical properties of multi-walled carbon nanotube and graphene nanosheet/polyethylene oxide composites plasticized with lithium triflate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jurkane, A.; Gaidukov, S.

2017-10-01

A strong engineering interest in nanostructured conducting polymers and its composite materials have been widely used to build various sensor devices, electronic interconnect devices, fuel cells and batteries. Preparation of polymeric nano-composites with finely controlled structure, especially, at nano-scale, is still one of the most perspective modification ways of the properties of polymeric composites. Multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/polyethylene oxide (PEO) and graphene nanosheets (GR)/PEO composites and composite of MWCNT/GR/PEO were prepared by solution casting and hot-pressing method. Composites were plasticized by 5% of Lithium triflate (LiTrifl), which play role of additional ion source in conducting polymer composite. Mechanical tensile tests were performed to evaluate nanoparticles influence on the mechanical strength of the conductive polymer composite materials. Difference of tensile tests of prepared composition can be seen from tensile tests data curves. The results of tensile tests indicated that the nanoparticles can provide PEO/5%LiTrifl composite with stiffening effects at rather low filler content (at least 0.05% by volume).

Use of Ionic Liquids in Rod-Coil Block Copolyimides for Improved Lithium Ion Conduction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meador, Mary Ann B.; Tigelaar, Dean M.; Chapin, Kara; Bennett, William R.

2007-01-01

Solvent-free, solid polymer electrolytes (SPE) have the potential to improve safety, increase design flexibility and enhance performance of rechargeable lithium batteries. Solution based electrolytes are flammable and typically incompatible with lithium metal anodes, limiting energy density. We have previously demonstrated use of polyimide rod coil block copolymers doped with lithium salts as electrolytes for lithium polymer batteries. The polyimide rod blocks provide dimensional stability while the polyethylene oxide (PEO) coil portions conduct ions. Phase separation of the rods and coils in these highly branched polymers provide channels with an order of magnitude improvement in lithium conduction over polyethylene oxide itself at room temperature. In addition, the polymers have been demonstrated in coin cells to be compatible with lithium metal. For practical use at room temperature and below, however, at least an order of magnitude improvement in ion conduction is still required. The addition of nonvolatile, room temperature ionic liquids has been shown to improve the ionic conductivity of high molecular weight PEO. Herein we describe use of these molten salts to improve ionic conductivity in the rod-coil block copolymers.

Tailored Design of Bicontinuous Gyroid Mesoporous Carbon and Nitrogen-Doped Carbon from Poly(ethylene oxide-b-caprolactone) Diblock Copolymers.

PubMed

Chu, Wei-Cheng; Bastakoti, Bishnu Prasad; Kaneti, Yusuf Valentino; Li, Jheng-Guang; Alamri, Hatem R; Alothman, Zeid A; Yamauchi, Yusuke; Kuo, Shiao-Wei

2017-10-04

Highly ordered mesoporous resol-type phenolic resin and the corresponding mesoporous carbon materials were synthesized by using poly(ethylene oxide-b-caprolactone) (PEO-b-PCL) diblock copolymer as a soft template. The self-assembled mesoporous phenolic resin was found to form only in a specific resol concentration range of 40-70 wt % due to an intriguing balance of hydrogen-bonding interactions in the resol/PEO-b-PCL mixtures. Furthermore, morphological transitions of the mesostructures from disordered to gyroid to cylindrical and finally to disordered micelle structure were observed with increasing resol concentration. By calcination under nitrogen atmosphere at 800 °C, the bicontinuous mesostructured gyroid phenolic resin could be converted to mesoporous carbon with large pore size without collapse of the original mesostructure. Furthermore, post-treatment of the mesoporous gyroid phenolic resin with melamine gave rise to N-doped mesoporous carbon with unique electronic properties for realizing high CO 2 adsorption capacity (6.72 mmol g -1 at 0 °C). © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

One-pot synthesis of water-soluble superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles and their MRI contrast effects in the mouse brains.

PubMed

Wang, Jun; Zhang, Baolin; Wang, Lei; Wang, Ming; Gao, Fabao

2015-03-01

Water-soluble superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) were synthesized by the thermal decomposition of iron (III) acetylacetonate (Fe(acac)3) in the mixture of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and poly(ethylene imine) (PEI). The average sizes of the SPIONs are in the range of 6-12nm, which could be tuned by adjusting the synthesis temperature and molecular weight of PEI. Benefiting from the coating of hydrophilic PEG and PEI, the resulted SPIONs showed excellent colloidal stability in deionized water and other physiological buffers. The XRD patterns indicate that the obtained SPIONs are magnetite. The PEG/PEI-SPIONs exhibited high r2/r1 ratio. In vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the mouse brains after intravenous injection of the SPIONs showed their good contrast effect. Considering the facile fabrication process and excellent imaging performance of the water soluble PEG-SPIONs and PEG/PEI-SPIONs, it is believed that the SPIONs will find great potential in advanced MRI. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dynamics of Water Associated with Lithium Ions Distributed in Polyethylene Oxide

DOE PAGES

Zhang, Zhe; Ohl, Michael; Diallo, Souleymane O.; ...

2015-11-03

We studied the dynamics of water in polyethylene oxide (PEO)/LiCl solution with quasielastic neutron scattering experiments and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Two different time scales of water diffusion representing interfacial water and bulk water dynamics have been identified. Furthermore, the measured diffusion coefficient of interfacial water remained 5–10 times smaller than that of bulk water, but both were slowed by approximately 50% in the presence of Li +. Detailed analysis of MD trajectories suggests that Li + is favorably found at the surface of the hydration layer, and the probability to find the caged Li + configuration formed by themore » PEO is lower than for the noncaged Li +-PEO configuration. In both configurations, however, the slowing down of water molecules is driven by reorienting water molecules and creating water-Li + hydration complexes. Moreover, performing the MD simulation with different ions (Na + and K +) revealed that smaller ionic radius of the ions is a key factor in disrupting the formation of PEO cages by allowing spaces for water molecules to come in between the ion and PEO.« less

Hemostatic granules and dressing prepared from formulations of carboxymethyl cellulose, kappa-carrageenan and polyethylene oxide crosslinked by gamma radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barba, Bin Jeremiah D.; Aranilla, Charito T.; Relleve, Lorna S.; Cruz, Veriza Rita C.; Vista, Jeanina Richelle; Abad, Lucille V.

2018-03-01

Uncontrolled hemorrhage remains a persistent problem especially in anatomical areas where compression and tourniquet cannot be applied. Hemostatic agents are materials which can achieve control of bleeding in acute, life-threatening traumatic coagulopathy. In this study, we prepared biocompatible hydrogel-based hemostat crosslinked by ionizing radiation. Granules made from carboxymethyl cellulose and dressing from kappa carrageenan and polyethylene oxide were characterized by FT-IR, SEM, and gel analysis. Gamma radiation with a dose of 25 kGy was used for sterilization process. Stability studies indicate that the products remain effective with a shelf life of up to 18 months based on accelerated aging. Both hemostatic agents were demonstrated to be effective in vitro blood clotting assays showing a low blood clotting index, high platelet adhesion capacity and accelerated clotting time. Hemostat granules and dressing were also used in a femoral artery rat bleeding model where hemorrhage control was achieved in 90 s without compression and resulted in 100% survival rate after a 7 and 14-day observation.

Crystallization Behavior of Poly(ethylene oxide) in Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube Array.

PubMed

Sheng, Jiadong; Zhou, Shenglin; Yang, Zhaohui; Zhang, Xiaohua

2018-03-27

We investigate the effect of the presence of vertically aligned multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the orientation of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) lamellae and PEO crystallinity. The high alignment of carbon nanotubes acting as templates probably governs the orientation of PEO lamellae. This templating effect might result in the lamella planes of PEO crystals oriented along a direction parallel to the long axis of the nanotubes. The presence of aligned carbon nanotubes also gives rise to the decreases in PEO crystallinity, crystallization temperature, and melting temperature due to the perturbation of carbon nanotubes to the crystallization of PEO. These effects have significant implications for controlling the orientation of PEO lamellae and decreasing the crystallinity of PEO and thickness of PEO lamellae, which have significant impacts on ion transport in PEO/CNT composite and the capacitive performance of PEO/CNT composite. Both the decreased PEO crystallinity and the orientation of PEO lamellae along the long axes of vertically aligned CNTs give rise to the decrease in the charge transfer resistance, which is associated with the improvements in the ion transport and capacitive performance of PEO/CNT composite.

Nano-web structures constructed with a cellulose acetate/lithium chloride/polyethylene oxide hybrid: modeling, fabrication and characterization.

PubMed

Broumand, Atefeh; Emam-Djomeh, Zahra; Khodaiyan, Faramarz; Mirzakhanlouei, Sasan; Davoodi, Driush; Moosavi-Movahedi, Ali A

2015-01-22

Electrospun nano-web structures (ENWSs) were successfully fabricated from ionized binary solution of cellulose(Mn30)/polyethylene oxide(Mn200) (CA/PEO of 0.5-1.5). Final concentration of polymers was 12% (w/v) in the solution, and lithium chloride was used as ionizing agent. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to the optimize fabrication of ENWSs. Results of multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the solution properties and ENWSs morphology were strongly influenced by CA/PEO. An increase in PEO amount increased the viscosity which is a function of molecular weight, and as a result raised the entanglement of polymeric solution but decreased the surface tension that all support nanofibers fabrication. The size of nanofibers decreased with reducing PEO and LiCl concentration. Increasing the content of LiCl promoted the electrical conductivity (EC) value; however, junction zones were formed. The overall optimum region was found to be at combined level of 1.5% CA/PEO and 0.49% (w/v) LiCl. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of Congo red on the drag reduction properties of poly(ethylene oxide) in aqueous solution based on drop impact images.

PubMed

Alkschbirs, Melissa I; Bizotto, Vanessa C; de Oliveira, Marcelo G; Sabadini, Edvaldo

2004-12-21

The presence of very small amounts (ppm) of high-MW polymers in solution produces high levels of drag reduction in a turbulent flow. This phenomenon, often termed as the Toms effect, is highly dependent not only on MW, but also on the flexibility of the macromolecular chain. The Toms effect can be studied through the images of the structures produced after the drop impact against shallow solution surfaces. The splash structures composed of crown, cavity, and Rayleigh jet are highly dependent on the elongational properties of the solution. This work presents the effects of Congo red on the drag reduction properties of poly(ethylene oxide) in aqueous solutions through the analysis of splash structures. Results obtained in this analysis indicate that Congo red molecules act as physical cross-linking agents, decreasing the polymer elasticity and its drag reduction capacity. It was observed that the maximum height of the Rayleigh jet can be used as a sensitive parameter to the complexation between the dye and the polymer molecules.

Tuning thin-film electrolyte for lithium battery by grafting cyclic carbonate and combed poly(ethylene oxide) on polysiloxane.

PubMed

Li, Jie; Lin, Yue; Yao, Hehua; Yuan, Changfu; Liu, Jin

2014-07-01

A tunable polysiloxane thin-film electrolyte for all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries was developed. The polysiloxane was synthesized by hydrosilylation of polymethylhydrosiloxane with cyclic [(allyloxy)methyl]ethylene ester carbonic acid and vinyl tris(2-methoxyethoxy)silane. (1) H NMR spectroscopy and gel-permeation chromatography demonstrated that the bifunctional groups of the cyclic propylene carbonate (PC) and combed poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) were well grafted on the polysiloxane. At PC/PEO=6:4, the polysiloxane-based electrolyte had an ionic conductivity of 1.55 × 10(-4) and 1.50 × 10(-3)  S cm(-1) at 25 and 100 °C, respectively. The LiFePO4 /Li batteries fabricated with the thin-film electrolyte presented excellent cycling performance in the temperature range from 25 to 100 °C with an initial discharge capacity at a rate of 1 C of 88.2 and 140 mA h g(-1) at 25 and 100 °C, respectively. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Design and characterisation of a polyethylene oxide matrix with the potential use as a teat insert for prevention/treatment of bovine mastitis.

PubMed

Bhattarai, Sushila; Alany, Raid G; Bunt, Craig R; Abdelkader, Hamdy; Rathbone, Michael J

2015-01-01

This manuscript reports (for the first time) on antibiotic-free polymeric inserts for the prevention and/or treatment of bovine mastitis. Polyethylene oxide (PEO)-based inserts were prepared using different concentrations of various hydrophilic polymers and water-soluble and water-insoluble drug-release-modifying excipients. A simple and scalable melt-extrusion method was employed to prepare the inserts. The prepared inserts were characterised for their dimension, rheological and mechanical properties. The in vitro release of a model bacteriostatic drug (salicylic acid) from the prepared inserts was studied to demonstrate the effectiveness and reproducibility of the melt-extrusion manufacturing method. Further, the in vitro stability of the inserts was evaluated using gel permeation chromatography (GPC) to monitor any change in molecular weight under real-time and accelerated storage conditions. The investigated inserts were stable at accelerated storage conditions over a period of 6 months. PEO inserts have the potential to serve a dual purpose, act as a physical barrier against pathogens invading the teat canal of cows and possibly control the release of a drug.

The internalization of fluorescence-labeled PLA nanoparticles by macrophages.

PubMed

Li, Fengjuan; Zhu, Aiping; Song, Xiaoli; Ji, Lijun; Wang, Juan

2013-09-10

Rhodamine B (RhB)-labeled PLA nanoparticles were prepared through surface grafting copolymerization of glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) onto PLA nanoparticles during the emulsion/evaporation process. RhB firstly interacts with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) through electrostatic interaction to form hydrophobic complex (SDS-RhB). Due to the high-affinity of SDS-RhB with GMA, hydrophilic RhB can be successfully combined into PLA nanoparticles. The internalization of RhB-labeled PLA nanoparticles by macrophages was investigated with fluorescence microscope technology. The effects of the PLA nanoparticle surface nature and size on the internalization were investigated. The results indicate that the PLA particles smaller than 200 nm can avoid the uptake of phagocytosis. The bigger PLA particles (300 nm) with polyethylene glycol (PEG) surface showed less internalization by macrophage compared with those with poly(ethylene oxide-propylene oxide) copolymer (F127) or poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) surface. The "stealth" function of PEG on the PLA nanoparticles from internalization of macrophages due to the low protein adsorption is revealed by electrochemical impedance technology. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dynamics of Water Associated with Lithium Ions Distributed in Polyethylene Oxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Zhe; Ohl, Michael; Diallo, Souleymane O.; Jalarvo, Niina H.; Hong, Kunlun; Han, Youngkyu; Smith, Gregory S.; Do, Changwoo

2015-11-01

The dynamics of water in polyethylene oxide (PEO)/LiCl solution has been studied with quasielastic neutron scattering experiments and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Two different time scales of water diffusion representing interfacial water and bulk water dynamics have been identified. The measured diffusion coefficient of interfacial water remained 5-10 times smaller than that of bulk water, but both were slowed by approximately 50% in the presence of Li+ . Detailed analysis of MD trajectories suggests that Li+ is favorably found at the surface of the hydration layer, and the probability to find the caged Li+ configuration formed by the PEO is lower than for the noncaged Li+-PEO configuration. In both configurations, however, the slowing down of water molecules is driven by reorienting water molecules and creating water-Li+ hydration complexes. Performing the MD simulation with different ions (Na+ and K+ ) revealed that smaller ionic radius of the ions is a key factor in disrupting the formation of PEO cages by allowing spaces for water molecules to come in between the ion and PEO.

Study of the dynamics of poly(ethylene oxide) by combining molecular dynamic simulations and neutron scattering experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brodeck, M.; Alvarez, F.; Arbe, A.; Juranyi, F.; Unruh, T.; Holderer, O.; Colmenero, J.; Richter, D.

2009-03-01

We performed quasielastic neutron scattering experiments and atomistic molecular dynamics simulations on a poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) homopolymer system above the melting point. The excellent agreement found between both sets of data, together with a successful comparison with literature diffraction results, validates the condensed-phase optimized molecular potentials for atomistic simulation studies (COMPASS) force field used to produce our dynamic runs and gives support to their further analysis. This provided direct information on magnitudes which are not accessible from experiments such as the radial probability distribution functions of specific atoms at different times and their moments. The results of our simulations on the H-motions and different experiments indicate that in the high-temperature range investigated the dynamics is Rouse-like for Q-values below ≈0.6 Å-1. We then addressed the single chain dynamic structure factor with the simulations. A mode analysis, not possible directly experimentally, reveals the limits of applicability of the Rouse model to PEO. We discuss the possible origins for the observed deviations.

In Situ Study of Strain-Dependent Ion Conductivity of Stretchable Polyethylene Oxide Electrolyte

PubMed Central

Kelly, Taylor; Ghadi, Bahar Moradi; Berg, Sean; Ardebili, Haleh

2016-01-01

There is a strong need in developing stretchable batteries that can accommodate stretchable or irregularly shaped applications including medical implants, wearable devices and stretchable electronics. Stretchable solid polymer electrolytes are ideal candidates for creating fully stretchable lithium ion batteries mainly due to their mechanical and electrochemical stability, thin-film manufacturability and enhanced safety. However, the characteristics of ion conductivity of polymer electrolytes during tensile deformation are not well understood. Here, we investigate the effects of tensile strain on the ion conductivity of thin-film polyethylene oxide (PEO) through an in situ study. The results of this investigation demonstrate that both in-plane and through-plane ion conductivities of PEO undergo steady and linear growths with respect to the tensile strain. The coefficients of strain-dependent ion conductivity enhancement (CSDICE) for in-plane and through-plane conduction were found to be 28.5 and 27.2, respectively. Tensile stress-strain curves and polarization light microscopy (PLM) of the polymer electrolyte film reveal critical insights on the microstructural transformation of stretched PEO and the potential consequences on ionic conductivity. PMID:26831948

Simulated glass transition of poly(ethylene oxide) bulk and film: a comparative study.

PubMed

Wu, Chaofu

2011-09-29

Stepwise cooling molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have been carried out on the bulk and film models for poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) to understand glass transition of amorphous polymer films. Three types of properties--density, energy, and dynamics--are computed and plotted against the temperature for the two systems. It has been confirmed that all these properties can reveal glass transition in both PEO bulk and film systems. All the determined glass transition temperatures (T(g)'s) drop in the same order of magnitude to the experimental data available. Among various methods, the T(g)'s obtained from the density and energy data are close to each other if the same space regions are defined, which can suggest the same free volume theory, and dynamic T(g)'s obtained from mean-squared displacements (MSDs) are highest, which can suggest the kinetic theory for structural relaxation. Consistently, all these T(g)'s obtained using different methods show that the T(g)'s of PEO film are lower than those of PEO bulk. The free surface layers of polymer films dictate this offset. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Dynamics of Water Associated with Lithium Ions Distributed in Polyethylene Oxide.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhe; Ohl, Michael; Diallo, Souleymane O; Jalarvo, Niina H; Hong, Kunlun; Han, Youngkyu; Smith, Gregory S; Do, Changwoo

2015-11-06

The dynamics of water in polyethylene oxide (PEO)/LiCl solution has been studied with quasielastic neutron scattering experiments and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Two different time scales of water diffusion representing interfacial water and bulk water dynamics have been identified. The measured diffusion coefficient of interfacial water remained 5-10 times smaller than that of bulk water, but both were slowed by approximately 50% in the presence of Li(+). Detailed analysis of MD trajectories suggests that Li(+) is favorably found at the surface of the hydration layer, and the probability to find the caged Li(+) configuration formed by the PEO is lower than for the noncaged Li(+)-PEO configuration. In both configurations, however, the slowing down of water molecules is driven by reorienting water molecules and creating water-Li(+) hydration complexes. Performing the MD simulation with different ions (Na(+) and K(+)) revealed that smaller ionic radius of the ions is a key factor in disrupting the formation of PEO cages by allowing spaces for water molecules to come in between the ion and PEO.

Mesoscale simulation of the formation and dynamics of lipid-structured poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(methyl methacrylate) diblock copolymers.

PubMed

Mu, Dan; Li, Jian-Quan; Feng, Sheng-Yu

2015-05-21

Twelve poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(methyl methacrylate) (PEO-b-PMMA) copolymers with lipid-like structures were designed and investigated by MesoDyn simulation. Spherical and worm-like micelles as well as bicontinuous, lamellar and defected lamellar phases were obtained. A special structure, designated B2412, with two lipid structures connected by their heads, was found to undergo four stages prior to forming a spherical micelle phase. Two possible assembly mechanisms were found via thermodynamic and dynamic process analyses; namely, the fusion and fission of micelles in dynamic equilibrium during the adjustment stage. Water can be encapsulated into these micelles, which can affect their size, particularly in low concentration aqueous solutions. The assignment of weak negative charges to the hydrophilic EO blocks resulted in a clear effect on micelle size. Surprisingly, the largest effect was observed with EO blocks with -0.5 e, wherein an ordered perfect hexagonal phase was formed. The obtained results can be applied in numerous fields of study, including adsorption, catalysis, controlled release and drug delivery.

Influence of chain topology on polymer crystallization: poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) rings vs. linear chains.

PubMed

Zardalidis, George; Mars, Julian; Allgaier, Jürgen; Mezger, Markus; Richter, Dieter; Floudas, George

2016-10-04

The absence of entanglements, the more compact structure and the faster diffusion in melts of cyclic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) chains have consequences on their crystallization behavior at the lamellar and spherulitic length scales. Rings with molecular weight below the entanglement molecular weight (M < M e ), attain the equilibrium configuration composed from twice-folded chains with a lamellar periodicity that is half of the corresponding linear chains. Rings with M > M e undergo distinct step-like conformational changes to a crystalline lamellar with the equilibrium configuration. Rings melt from this configuration in the absence of crystal thickening in sharp contrast to linear chains. In general, rings more easily attain their extended equilibrium configuration due to strained segments and the absence of entanglements. In addition, rings have a higher equilibrium melting temperature. At the level of the spherulitic superstructure, growth rates are much faster for rings reflecting the faster diffusion and more compact structure. With respect to the segmental dynamics in their semi-crystalline state, ring PEOs with a steepness index of ∼34 form some of the "strongest" glasses.

Study of the dynamics of poly(ethylene oxide) by combining molecular dynamic simulations and neutron scattering experiments.

PubMed

Brodeck, M; Alvarez, F; Arbe, A; Juranyi, F; Unruh, T; Holderer, O; Colmenero, J; Richter, D

2009-03-07

We performed quasielastic neutron scattering experiments and atomistic molecular dynamics simulations on a poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) homopolymer system above the melting point. The excellent agreement found between both sets of data, together with a successful comparison with literature diffraction results, validates the condensed-phase optimized molecular potentials for atomistic simulation studies (COMPASS) force field used to produce our dynamic runs and gives support to their further analysis. This provided direct information on magnitudes which are not accessible from experiments such as the radial probability distribution functions of specific atoms at different times and their moments. The results of our simulations on the H-motions and different experiments indicate that in the high-temperature range investigated the dynamics is Rouse-like for Q-values below approximately 0.6 A(-1). We then addressed the single chain dynamic structure factor with the simulations. A mode analysis, not possible directly experimentally, reveals the limits of applicability of the Rouse model to PEO. We discuss the possible origins for the observed deviations.

Deterred drug abuse using superabsorbent polymers.

PubMed

Mastropietro, David J; Muppalaneni, Srinath; Omidian, Hossein

2016-11-01

This study aimed to determine whether selected superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) could be used as a suitable alternative to thwart extraction, filtration, and syringeability attempts for abuse. Many abuse-deterrent formulations (ADFs) rely on high molecular weight polymers such as poly(ethylene oxide) to provide crush and extraction resistance. However, these polymers suffer from slow dissolution kinetics, and are susceptible to a variety of abuse conditions. Several commercially available SAPs were evaluated for swelling behavior in extraction solvents, and tableting properties. Post-compaction abuse properties were evaluated by recoverable volume and syringeability after solvent extraction. Drug release and percent drug extraction were conducted using tramadol HCl as a model drug. Certain SAPs had the ability to rapidly imbibe solvent and effectively stop extraction processes in a variety of solvents, including water and water/alcohol mixtures. Tablets containing SAP and drug showed no effect on drug release in vitro. SAPs possess adequate properties for tableting, and maintain their high and fast swelling properties after compaction. The fast and extensive interactions of SAPs with aqueous medium are a major advantage over non-crosslinked high molecular weight viscosifying agents such as poly(ethylene oxide).

Cell-polymer interactions of fluorescent polystyrene latex particles coated with thermosensitive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) and poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) or grafted with poly(ethylene oxide)-macromonomer.

PubMed

Vihola, Henna; Marttila, Anna-Kaisa; Pakkanen, Jukka S; Andersson, Mirja; Laukkanen, Antti; Kaukonen, Ann Marie; Tenhu, Heikki; Hirvonen, Jouni

2007-10-01

Cell-polymer interactions of thermosensitive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) or poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PVCL) coated particles with RAW264.7 macrophages and intestinal Caco-2 cells were evaluated. Nanosized particles were prepared by modifying the surface of fluorescent polystyrene (FPS) particles with the thermosensitive polymer gels or with poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-macromonomer grafts. The particles were characterized by IR-spectroscopy for functional groups, light scattering for size distribution and zeta-potential for surface charge. Effects of temperature and polymer coating/grafting on the cellular interactions were evaluated by cell association/uptake and visualized by confocal scanning microscope. PEO and PNIPAM inhibited the polymer-cell contact by steric repulsion, evidenced by weak attachment of the particles. PVCL-coated FPS was adsorbed on the cells more strongly, especially at 37 degrees C, because of more hydrophobic nature at higher temperatures. The results suggest feasibility of the PNIPAM and PVCL for biotechnological/pharmaceutical applications, as the cell-particle interactions may be modified by size, surface charge, hydrophobicity, steric repulsion and temperature.

Development of an iron chelating polyethylene film for active packaging applications.

PubMed

Tian, Fang; Decker, Eric A; Goddard, Julie M

2012-02-29

Metal-promoted oxidation reactions are a major cause of food quality deterioration. Active packaging offers novel approaches to controlling such oxidation for the purpose of extending shelf life. Herein, we report modification of the surface of polyethylene (PE) films to possess metal chelating activity. Metal chelating carboxylic acids were introduced to the film surface using cross-linking agents [polyethylenimine (PEI) or ethylenediamine (ED)] to increase the number of available carboxylic acids. ATR-FTIR, contact angle, dye assay, and iron chelating assay were used to characterize changes in surface chemistry after each functionalization step. The chelator poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) was attached to the surface at a density of 9.12 ± 0.71 nmol carboxyl groups/cm², and exhibited an iron chelating activity. The results indicate that PAA-modified PE films might have a higher affinity to Fe³⁺ than Fe²⁺ with the optimum binding pH at 5.0. Such inexpensive active packaging materials are promising in food industry for the preservation of liquid and semiliquid food products and have application in heavy metal chelation therapy for biomedical materials as well.

In Vitro Sustained Release Study of Gallic Acid Coated with Magnetite-PEG and Magnetite-PVA for Drug Delivery System

PubMed Central

Kura, Aminu Umar; Hussein-Al-Ali, Samer Hasan; Bin Hussein, Mohd Zobir; Fakurazi, Sharida; Shaari, Abdul Halim; Ahmad, Zalinah

2014-01-01

The efficacy of two nanocarriers polyethylene glycol and polyvinyl alcohol magnetic nanoparticles coated with gallic acid (GA) was accomplished via X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, magnetic measurements, thermal analysis, and TEM. X-ray diffraction and TEM results showed that Fe3O4 nanoparticles were pure iron oxide having spherical shape with the average diameter of 9 nm, compared with 31 nm and 35 nm after coating with polyethylene glycol-GA (FPEGG) and polyvinyl alcohol-GA (FPVAG), respectively. Thermogravimetric analyses proved that after coating the thermal stability was markedly enhanced. Magnetic measurements and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) revealed that superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles could be successfully coated with two polymers (PEG and PVA) and gallic acid as an active drug. Release behavior of gallic acid from two nanocomposites showed that FPEGG and FPVAG nanocomposites were found to be sustained and governed by pseudo-second-order kinetics. Anticancer activity of the two nanocomposites shows that the FPEGG demonstrated higher anticancer effect on the breast cancer cell lines in almost all concentrations tested compared to FPVAG. PMID:24737969

S-containing copolymer as cathode material in poly(ethylene oxide)-based all-solid-state Li-S batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gracia, Ismael; Ben Youcef, Hicham; Judez, Xabier; Oteo, Uxue; Zhang, Heng; Li, Chunmei; Rodriguez-Martinez, Lide M.; Armand, Michel

2018-06-01

Inverse vulcanization copolymers (p(S-DVB)) from the radical polymerization of elemental sulfur and divinylbenzene (DVB) have been studied as cathode active materials in poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-based all-solid-state Li-S cells. The Li-S cell comprising the optimized p(S-DVB) cathode (80:20 w/w S/DVB ratio) and lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide/PEO (LiFSI/PEO) electrolyte shows high specific capacity (ca. 800 mAh g-1) and high Coulombic efficiency for 50 cycles. Most importantly, polysulfide (PS) shuttle is highly mitigated due to the strong interactions of PS species with polymer backbone in p(S-DVB). This is demonstrated by the stable cycling of the p(S-DVB)-based cell using lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI)/PEO electrolyte, where successful charging cannot be achieved even at the first cycle with plain elemental S-based cathode material due to the severe PS shuttle phenomenon. These results suggest that inverse vulcanization copolymers are promising alternatives to elemental sulfur for enhancing the electrochemical performance of PEO-based all-solid-state Li-S cells.

Detection of Nisin and Fibrinogen Adsorption on Poly(ethylene Oxide) Coated Polyurethane Surfaces by Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (TOF-SIMS)

PubMed Central

Schilke, Karl F.; McGuire, Joseph

2011-01-01

Stable, pendant polyethylene oxide (PEO) layers were formed on medical-grade Pellethane® and Tygon® polyurethane surfaces, by adsorption and gamma-irradiation of PEO-polybutadiene-PEO triblock surfactants. Coated and uncoated polyurethanes were challenged individually or sequentially with nisin (a small polypeptide with antimicrobial activity) and/or fibrinogen, and then analyzed with time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS). Data reduction by robust principal components analysis (PCA) allowed detection of outliers, and distinguished adsorbed nisin and fibrinogen. Fibrinogen-contacted surfaces, with or without nisin, were very similar on uncoated polymer surfaces, consistent with nearly complete displacement or coverage of previously-adsorbed nisin by fibrinogen. In contrast, nisin-loaded PEO layers remained essentially unchanged upon challenge with fibrinogen, suggesting that the adsorbed nisin is stabilized within the pendant PEO layer, while the peptide-loaded PEO layer retains its ability to repel large proteins. Coatings of PEO loaded with therapeutic polypeptides on medical polymers have the potential to be used to produce anti-fouling and biofunctional surfaces for implantable or blood-contacting devices. PMID:21440897

Preparation of protein- and cell-resistant surfaces by hyperthermal hydrogen induced cross-linking of poly(ethylene oxide).

PubMed

Bonduelle, Colin V; Lau, Woon M; Gillies, Elizabeth R

2011-05-01

The functionalization of surfaces with poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) is an effective means of imparting resistance to the adsorption of proteins and the attachment and growth of cells, properties that are critical for many biomedical applications. In this work, a new hyperthermal hydrogen induced cross-linking (HHIC) method was explored as a simple one-step approach for attaching PEO to surfaces through the selective cleavage of C-H bonds and subsequent cross-linking of the resulting carbon radicals. In order to study the effects of the process on the polymer, PEO-coated silicon wafers were prepared and the effects of different treatment times were investigated. Subsequently, using an optimized treatment time and a modified butyl polymer with increased affinity for PEO, the technique was applied to butyl rubber surfaces. All of the treated surfaces exhibited significantly reduced protein adsorption and cell growth relative to control surfaces and compared favorably with surfaces that were functionalized with PEO using conventional chemical methods. Thus HHIC is a simple and effective means of attaching PEO to non-functional polymer surfaces.

Influence of iron solubility and charged surface-active compounds on lipid oxidation in fatty acid ethyl esters containing association colloids.

PubMed

Homma, Rika; Johnson, David R; McClements, D Julian; Decker, Eric A

2016-05-15

The impact of iron compounds with different solubilities on lipid oxidation was studied in the presence and absence of association colloids. Iron (III) sulfate only accelerated lipid oxidation in the presence of association colloids while iron (III) oleate accelerated oxidation in the presence and absence of association colloids. Further, iron (III) oxide retarded lipid oxidation both with and without association colloids. The impact of charged association colloids on lipid oxidation in ethyl oleate was also investigated. Association colloids consisting of the anionic surface-active compound dodecyl sulphosuccinate sodium salt (AOT), cationic surface-active compound hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and nonionic surface-active compound 4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenyl-polyethylene glycol (Triton X-100) retarded, promoted, and had no effect on lipid oxidation rates, respectively. These results indicate that the polarity of metal compounds and the charge of association colloids play a big role in lipid oxidation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Characterization and assessment of a novel poly(ethylene oxide)/polyurethane composite hydrogel (Aquavene) as a ureteral stent biomaterial.

PubMed

Gorman, S P; Tunney, M M; Keane, P F; Van Bladel, K; Bley, B

1998-03-15

The effective long-term use of indwelling ureteral stents is often hindered by the formation of encrusting deposits which may cause obstruction and blockage of the stent. Development of improved ureteral stent biomaterials capable of preventing or reducing encrustation is therefore particularly desirable. In this study, the suitability as a ureteral stent biomaterial of Aquavene, a novel poly(ethylene oxide)/polyurethane composite hydrogel was compared with that of silicone and polyurethane, two materials widely employed in ureteral stent manufacture. Examination of Aquavene in dry and hydrated states by confocal laser scanning microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy showed the presence of numerous channels within a cellular matrix structure. The channel size increased considerably to as much as 10 microm in diameter in the hydrated state. Aquavene provided superior resistance to encrustation and intraluminal blockage over a 24-week period in a simulated urine flow model. Unobstructed urine flow continued with Aquavene at 24 weeks, whereas silicone and polyurethane stents became blocked with encrustation at 8 and 10 weeks, respectively. Weight loss within Aquavene on the order of 9% (w/w) over the 24-week flow period indicates that extraction of the noncrosslinked poly(ethylene oxide) hydrogel may be responsible for the prevention of encrustation blockage of this biomaterial. In the dry state, Aquavene was significantly harder than either silicone or polyurethane, as shown by Young's modulus, and rapidly became soft on hydration. These additional properties of Aquavene would facilitate ease of stent insertion in the dry state past obstructions in the ureter and provide improved patient comfort on subsequent biomaterial hydration in situ. Aquavene is a promising candidate for use in the urinary tract, as it is probable that effective long-term urine drainage would be maintained in vivo. Further evaluation of this novel biomaterial is therefore warranted.

Polyethylene glycol modified, cross-linked starch-coated iron oxide nanoparticles for enhanced magnetic tumor targeting.

PubMed

Cole, Adam J; David, Allan E; Wang, Jianxin; Galbán, Craig J; Hill, Hannah L; Yang, Victor C

2011-03-01

While successful magnetic tumor targeting of iron oxide nanoparticles has been achieved in a number of models, the rapid blood clearance of magnetically suitable particles by the reticuloendothelial system (RES) limits their availability for targeting. This work aimed to develop a long-circulating magnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (MNP) platform capable of sustained tumor exposure via the circulation and, thus, potentially enhanced magnetic tumor targeting. Aminated, cross-linked starch (DN) and aminosilane (A) coated MNPs were successfully modified with 5 kDa (A5, D5) or 20 kDa (A20, D20) polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains using simple N-Hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) chemistry and characterized. Identical PEG-weight analogues between platforms (A5 & D5, A20 & D20) were similar in size (140-190 nm) and relative PEG labeling (1.5% of surface amines - A5/D5, 0.4% - A20/D20), with all PEG-MNPs possessing magnetization properties suitable for magnetic targeting. Candidate PEG-MNPs were studied in RES simulations in vitro to predict long-circulating character. D5 and D20 performed best showing sustained size stability in cell culture medium at 37 °C and 7 (D20) to 10 (D5) fold less uptake in RAW264.7 macrophages when compared to previously targeted, unmodified starch MNPs (D). Observations in vitro were validated in vivo, with D5 (7.29 h) and D20 (11.75 h) showing much longer half-lives than D (0.12 h). Improved plasma stability enhanced tumor MNP exposure 100 (D5) to 150 (D20) fold as measured by plasma AUC(0-∞). Sustained tumor exposure over 24 h was visually confirmed in a 9L-glioma rat model (12 mg Fe/kg) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Findings indicate that a polyethylene glycol modified, cross-linked starch-coated MNP is a promising platform for enhanced magnetic tumor targeting, warranting further study in tumor models. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biodegradation of Degradable Plastic Polyethylene by Phanerochaete and Streptomyces Species †

PubMed Central

Lee, Byungtae; Pometto, Anthony L.; Fratzke, Alfred; Bailey, Theodore B.

1991-01-01

The ability of lignin-degrading microorganisms to attack degradable plastics was investigated in pure shake flask culture studies. The degradable plastic used in this study was produced commercially by using the Archer-Daniels-Midland POLYCLEAN masterbatch and contained pro-oxidant and 6% starch. The known lignin-degrading bacteria Streptomyces viridosporus T7A, S. badius 252, and S. setonii 75Vi2 and fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium were used. Pro-oxidant activity was accelerated by placing a sheet of plastic into a drying oven at 70°C under atmospheric pressure and air for 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, or 20 days. The effect of 2-, 4-, and 8-week longwave UV irradiation at 365 nm on plastic biodegradability was also investigated. For shake flask cultures, plastics were chemically disinfected and incubated-shaken at 125 rpm at 37°C in 0.6% yeast extract medium (pH 7.1) for Streptomyces spp. and at 30°C for the fungus in 3% malt extract medium (pH 4.5) for 4 weeks along with an uninoculated control for each treatment. Weight loss data were inconclusive because of cell mass accumulation. For almost every 70°C heat-treated film, the Streptomyces spp. demonstrated a further reduction in percent elongation and polyethylene molecular weight average when compared with the corresponding uninoculated control. Significant (P < 0.05) reductions were demonstrated for the 4- and 8-day heat-treated films by all three bacteria. Heat-treated films incubated with P. chrysosporium consistently demonstrated higher percent elongation and molecular weight average than the corresponding uninoculated controls, but were lower than the corresponding zero controls (heat-treated films without 4-week incubation). The 2- and 4-week UV-treated films showed the greatest biodegradation by all three bacteria. Virtually no degradation by the fungus was observed. To our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating bacterial degradation of these oxidized polyethylenes in pure culture. PMID:16348434

Biodegradation of degradable plastic polyethylene by phanerochaete and streptomyces species.

PubMed

Lee, B; Pometto, A L; Fratzke, A; Bailey, T B

1991-03-01

The ability of lignin-degrading microorganisms to attack degradable plastics was investigated in pure shake flask culture studies. The degradable plastic used in this study was produced commercially by using the Archer-Daniels-Midland POLYCLEAN masterbatch and contained pro-oxidant and 6% starch. The known lignin-degrading bacteria Streptomyces viridosporus T7A, S. badius 252, and S. setonii 75Vi2 and fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium were used. Pro-oxidant activity was accelerated by placing a sheet of plastic into a drying oven at 70 degrees C under atmospheric pressure and air for 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, or 20 days. The effect of 2-, 4-, and 8-week longwave UV irradiation at 365 nm on plastic biodegradability was also investigated. For shake flask cultures, plastics were chemically disinfected and incubated-shaken at 125 rpm at 37 degrees C in 0.6% yeast extract medium (pH 7.1) for Streptomyces spp. and at 30 degrees C for the fungus in 3% malt extract medium (pH 4.5) for 4 weeks along with an uninoculated control for each treatment. Weight loss data were inconclusive because of cell mass accumulation. For almost every 70 degrees C heat-treated film, the Streptomyces spp. demonstrated a further reduction in percent elongation and polyethylene molecular weight average when compared with the corresponding uninoculated control. Significant (P < 0.05) reductions were demonstrated for the 4- and 8-day heat-treated films by all three bacteria. Heat-treated films incubated with P. chrysosporium consistently demonstrated higher percent elongation and molecular weight average than the corresponding uninoculated controls, but were lower than the corresponding zero controls (heat-treated films without 4-week incubation). The 2- and 4-week UV-treated films showed the greatest biodegradation by all three bacteria. Virtually no degradation by the fungus was observed. To our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating bacterial degradation of these oxidized polyethylenes in pure culture.

Micro- and Nanoscale Hydrogel Systems for Drug Delivery and Tissue Engineering

PubMed Central

Schwall, Christine T.; Banerjee, Ipsita A.

2009-01-01

The pursuit for targeted drug delivery systems has led to the development of highly improved biomaterials with enhanced biocompatibility and biodegradability properties. Micro- and nanoscale components of hydrogels prepared from both natural and artificial components have been gaining significant importance due to their potential uses in cell based therapies, tissue engineering, liquid micro-lenses, cancer therapy, and drug delivery. In this review some of the recent methodologies used in the preparation of a number of synthetic hydrogels such as poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAm), poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), polyvinyl alcohol methylacrylate co-polymers (PVA-MA) and polylactic acid (PLA), as well as some of the natural hydrogels and their applications have been discussed in detail.

On the Interfacial Properties of Polymers/Functionalized Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ansari, R.; Rouhi, S.; Ajori, S.

2016-06-01

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations is used to study the adsorption of polyethylene (PE) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) on the functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). The effects of functionalization factor weight percent on the interaction energies of polymer chains with nanotubes are studied. Besides, the influences of different functionalization factors on the SWCNT/polymer interactions are investigated. It is shown that for both types of polymer chains, the largest interaction energies associates with the random O functionalized nanotubes. Besides, increasing temperature results in increasing the nanotube/polymer interaction energy. Considering the final shapes of adsorbed polymer chains on the SWCNTs, it is observed that the adsorbed conformations of PE chains are more contracted than those of PEO chains.

The effect of real-time aging on the oxidation and wear of highly cross-linked UHMWPE acetabular liners.

PubMed

Wannomae, Keith K; Christensen, Steven D; Freiberg, Andrew A; Bhattacharyya, Shayan; Harris, William H; Muratoglu, Orhun Kamil

2006-03-01

Irradiation decreases the wear of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) but generates residual free radicals, precursors to long-term oxidation. Melting or annealing is used in quenching free radicals. We hypothesized that irradiated and once-annealed UHMWPE would oxidize while irradiated and melted UHMWPE would not, and that the oxidation in the former would increase wear. Acetabular liners were real-time aged by immersion in an aqueous environment that closely mimicked the temperature and oxygen concentration of synovial fluid. After 95 weeks of real-time aging, once-annealed components were oxidized; the melted components were not. The wear rate of the real-time aged irradiated and once-annealed components was higher than the literature reported values of other contemporary highly cross-linked UHMWPEs. Single annealing after irradiation used with terminal gamma sterilization may adversely affect the long-term oxidative stability of UHMWPE components.

Synthesis and Properties of Highly Dispersed Ionic Silica–Poly(ethylene oxide) Nanohybrids

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

We report an ionic hybrid based on silica nanoparticles as the anion and amine-terminated poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) as a cation. The charge on the nanoparticle anion is carried by the surface hydroxyls. SAXS and TEM reveal an exceptional degree of dispersion of the silica in the polymer and high degree of order in both thin film and bulk forms. In addition to better dispersion, the ionic hybrid shows improved flow characteristics compared to silica/PEO mixtures in which the ionic interactions are absent. PMID:23351113

Influence of bismuth oxide concentration on the pH level and biocompatibility of white Portland cement.

PubMed

Marciano, Marina Angélica; Garcia, Roberto Brandão; Cavenago, Bruno Cavalini; Minotti, Paloma Gagliardi; Midena, Raquel Zanin; Guimarães, Bruno Martini; Ordinola-Zapata, Ronald; Duarte, Marco Antonio Hungaro

2014-01-01

To investigate if there is a relation between the increase of bismuth oxide and the decrease of pH levels and an intensification of toxicity in the Portland cement. White Portland cement (WPC) was mixed with 0, 15, 20, 30 and 50% bismuth oxide, in weight. For the pH level test, polyethylene tubes were filled with the cements and immersed in Milli-Q water for 15, 30 and 60 days. After each period, the increase of the pH level was assessed. For the biocompatibility, two polyethylene tubes filled with the cements were implanted in ninety albino rats (n=6). The analysis of the intensity of the inflammatory infiltrate was performed after 15, 30 and 60 days. The statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn and Friedman tests for the pH level and the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests for the biological analysis (p<0.05). The results showed an increase of the pH level after 15 days, followed by a slight increase after 30 days and a decrease after 60 days. There were no significant statistical differences among the groups (p>0.05). For the inflammatory infiltrates, no significant statistical differences were found among the groups in each period (p>0.05). The 15% WPC showed a significant decrease of the inflammatory infiltrate from 15 to 30 and 60 days (p<0.05). The addition of bismuth oxide into Portland cement did not affect the pH level and the biological response. The concentration of 15% of bismuth oxide resulted in significant reduction in inflammatory response in comparison with the other concentrations evaluated.

A comparison of the efficacy of various antioxidants on the oxidative stability of irradiated polyethylene.

PubMed

Hope, Natalie; Bellare, Anuj

2015-03-01

Ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is subjected to radiation crosslinking to form highly crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE), which has improved wear resistance. First-generation HXLPE was subjected to thermal treatment to reduce or quench free radicals that can induce long-term oxidative degeneration. Most recently, antioxidants have been added to HXLPE to induce oxidative resistance rather than by thermal treatment. However, antioxidants can interfere with the efficiency of radiation crosslinking. We sought to identify (1) which antioxidant from among those tested (vitamin E, β-carotene, butylated hydroxytoluene, or pentaerythritol tetrakis [methylene-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) propionate]) causes the least reduction of crosslinking; (2) which promotes the greatest oxidative stability; and (3) which had the lowest ratio of oxidation index to crosslink density. Medical-grade polyethylene (PE) resin was blended with 0.1 weight % of the following stabilizers: alpha tocopherol (vitamin E), β-carotene, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and pentaerythritol tetrakis [methylene-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) propionate] (a hindered phenol antioxidant [HPAO]). These blends were compression-molded into sheets and subjected to electron beam irradiation to a dose of 100 kGy. Equilibrium swelling experiments were conducted to calculate crosslink density. Each PE was subjected to accelerated aging for a period of 2 weeks and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to measure the maximum oxidation. Statistical analysis was conducted using analysis of variance with Fisher's protected least significant difference in which a p value of < 0.05 was used to define a significant difference. The least reduction of crosslinking in antioxidant-containing HXLPE was observed with HPAO, which had a crosslink density (n = 6) of 0.167 (effect size [ES] = 0.87; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.162-0.173) mol/dm(3) compared with 0.139 (ES = 1.57; 95% CI, 0.132-0.146) mol/dm(3) (p = 0.020) for BHT, 0.131 (ES = 1.77; 95% CI, 0.123-0.139) mol/dm(3) (p = 0.004) for β-carotene, and 0.130 (ES = 1.79; 95% CI, 0.124-0.136) mol/dm(3) (p = 0.003) for vitamin E, whereas pure HXLPE had a crosslink density of 0.203 (95% CI, 0.170-0.235) mol/dm(3) (p = 0.005). BHT-PE had an oxidation index of 0.21 (ES = 13.14; 95% CI, 0.19-0.22) followed by HPAO-PE, vitamin E-PE and β-carotene-PE, which had oxidation indices of 0.28 (ES = 9.68; 95% CI, 0.28-0.29), 0.29 (ES = 9.59; 95% CI, 0.27-0.30), and 0.35 (ES = 6.68; 95% CI, 0.34-0.37), respectively (p < 0.001 for all groups). BHT-PE had the lowest ratio of oxidation index to crosslink density of the materials tested (1.49, ES = 1.94; 95% CI, 1.32-1.66) followed by HPAO-PE (1.70, ES = 1.52; 95% CI, 1.61-1.80), vitamin E-PE (2.21, ES = 0.52; 95% CI, 2.05-2.38), and β-carotene-PE (2.69, ES = -0.43; 95% CI, 2.46-2.93) compared with control PE (2.47, 95% CI, 2.07-2.88) with β-carotene (p = 0.208) and vitamin E (p = 0.129) not being different from the control. BHT-modified HXLPE was found in this study to have the lowest oxidation index as well as the lowest ratio of oxidation index to crosslink density compared with vitamin E, HPAO, and β-carotene-modified HXLPEs. More comprehensive studies are required such as wear testing using joint simulators as well as biocompatibility studies before BHT-modified HXLPE can be considered for clinical use. BHT is a synthetic antioxidant commonly used in the polymer industry to prevent long-term oxidative degradation and has been approved by the FDA for use in cosmetics and foodstuffs. It may be an attractive potential stabilizer for HXLPE in total joint replacements.

Does high-carbohydrate intake lead to increased risk of obesity? A systematic review and meta-analysis

PubMed Central

Sartorius, Kurt; Sartorius, Benn; Madiba, Thandinkosi E; Stefan, Cristina

2018-01-01

Objectives The present study aimed to test the association between high and low carbohydrate diets and obesity, and second, to test the link between total carbohydrate intake (as a percentage of total energy intake) and obesity. Setting, participants and outcome measures We sought MEDLINE, PubMed and Google Scholar for observation studies published between January 1990 and December 2016 assessing an association between obesity and high-carbohydrate intake. Two independent reviewers selected candidate studies, extracted data and assessed study quality. Results The study identified 22 articles that fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria and quantified an association between carbohydrate intake and obesity. The first pooled strata (high-carbohydrate versus low-carbohydrate intake) suggested a weak increased risk of obesity. The second pooled strata (increasing percentage of total carbohydrate intake in daily diet) showed a weak decreased risk of obesity. Both these pooled strata estimates were, however, not statistically significant. Conclusions On the basis of the current study, it cannot be concluded that a high-carbohydrate diet or increased percentage of total energy intake in the form of carbohydrates increases the odds of obesity. A central limitation of the study was the non-standard classification of dietary intake across the studies, as well as confounders like total energy intake, activity levels, age and gender. Further studies are needed that specifically classify refined versus unrefined carbohydrate intake, as well as studies that investigate the relationship between high fat, high unrefined carbohydrate–sugar diets. PROSPERO registration number CRD42015023257. PMID:29439068

Performance assessment of femoral knee components made from cobalt-chromium alloy and oxidized zirconium.

PubMed

Brandt, J-M; Guenther, L; O'Brien, S; Vecherya, A; Turgeon, T R; Bohm, E R

2013-12-01

The surface characteristics of the femoral component affect polyethylene wear in modular total knee replacements. In the present retrieval study, the surface characteristics of cobalt-chromium (CoCr) alloy and oxidized zirconium (OxZr) femoral components were assessed and compared. Twenty-six retrieved CoCr alloy femoral components were matched with twenty-six retrieved OxZr femoral components for implantation period, body-mass index, patient gender, implant type, and polyethylene insert thickness. The surface damage on the retrieved femoral components was evaluated using a semi-quantitative assessment method, scanning electron microscopy, and contact profilometry. The retrieved CoCr alloy femoral components showed less posterior surface gouging than OxZr femoral components; however, at a higher magnification, the grooving damage features on the retrieved CoCr alloy femoral components confirmed an abrasive wear mechanism. The surface roughness values Rp, Rpm, and Rpk for the retrieved CoCr alloy femoral components were found to be significantly higher than those of the retrieved OxZr femoral components (p≤0.031). The surface roughness values were higher on the medial condyles than on the lateral condyles of the retrieved CoCr alloy femoral components; such a difference was not observed on the retrieved OxZr femoral components. The surface roughness of CoCr alloy femoral components increased while the surface roughness of the OxZr femoral components remained unchanged after in vivo service. Therefore, the OxZr femoral components' resistance to abrasive wear may enable lower polyethylene wear and ensure long-term durability in vivo. Level IV. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of zirconium oxide nanofiller and dibutyl phthalate plasticizer on ionic conductivity and optical properties of solid polymer electrolyte.

PubMed

Yasin, Siti Mariah Mohd; Ibrahim, Suriani; Johan, Mohd Rafie

2014-01-01

New solid polymer electrolytes (SPE) based on poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) doped with lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate (LiCF3SO3), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) plasticizer, and zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles were prepared by solution-casting technique. The conductivity was enhanced by addition of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) plasticizer and ZrO2 nanofiller with maximum conductivity (1.38 × 10(-4) Scm(-1)). The absorption edge and band gap values showed decreases upon addition of LiSO3CF3, DBP, and ZrO2 due to the formation of localized states in the SPE and the degree of disorder in the films increased.

Preparation of Diatomite Supported Nano Zinc Oxide Composite Photocatalytic Material and Study on its Formaldehyde Degradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Liguang; Pang, Bo

2017-09-01

This experiment used zinc nitrate as precursor, ethanol as solvent and polyethylene glycol as dispersant, diatomite as carrier, diatomite loaded nano Zinc Oxide was prepared by sol-gel method, in addition, the formaldehyde degradation was studied by two kinds of experimental methods: preparation and loading, preparation and post loading, The samples were characterized by SEM, XRD, BET and IR. Experimental results showed that: Diatomite based nano Zinc Oxide had a continuous adsorption and degradation of formaldehyde, formaldehyde gas with initial concentration was 0.7mg/m3, after 36h degradation, the concentration reached 0.238mg/m3, the degradation rate reached to 66%.

Effect of Zirconium Oxide Nanofiller and Dibutyl Phthalate Plasticizer on Ionic Conductivity and Optical Properties of Solid Polymer Electrolyte

PubMed Central

Yasin, Siti Mariah Mohd; Ibrahim, Suriani

2014-01-01

New solid polymer electrolytes (SPE) based on poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) doped with lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate (LiCF3SO3), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) plasticizer, and zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles were prepared by solution-casting technique. The conductivity was enhanced by addition of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) plasticizer and ZrO2 nanofiller with maximum conductivity (1.38 × 10−4 Scm−1). The absorption edge and band gap values showed decreases upon addition of LiSO3CF3, DBP, and ZrO2 due to the formation of localized states in the SPE and the degree of disorder in the films increased. PMID:25133244

Replacement Packing for 37MM Antitank Gun Recoil

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-04-01

Parts Per Hundred Rubber (PPHR) NBR -07-GRS-01 Paracril AJ Nitrile Rubber 100.00 Zinc Oxide 5.00 Stearic Acid 1.00 AC) 617 Polyethylene 2.00 (DQ...3 Figure 4. Nitrile rubber compound being produced on rolling mill. ..............................................5 Figure 5. The two...9 List of Tables Table 1. Composition and properties of Nitrile rubber ...................................................................4

Microfluidics Meets Dilute Solution Viscometry: An Undergraduate Laboratory to Determine Polymer Molecular Weight Using a Microviscometer

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pety, Stephen J.; Lu, Hang; Thio, Yonathan S.

2011-01-01

This paper describes a student laboratory experiment to determine the molecular weight of a polymer sample by measuring the viscosity of dilute polymer solutions in a PDMS microfluidic viscometer. Sample data are given for aqueous solutions of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO). A demonstration of shear thinning behavior using the microviscometer is…

Rheological Study Of The Mixture Of Acetaminophen And Polyethylene Oxide For Hot-Melt Extrusion Application (PREPRINT)

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-01

kinetics does not affect the solubility data obtained. As a result, a long testing period is required, which may cause the thermal degradation ...Acetaminophen, with a commercial name of paracetamol , was supplied by Spectrum Quality Products, Inc. (Gardena, CA 90428). It has a formula of C8H9O2

Electrode property of single-walled carbon nanotubes in all-solid-state lithium ion battery using polymer electrolyte

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sakamoto, Y.; Ishii, Y.; Kawasaki, S., E-mail: kawasaki.shinji@nitech.ac.jp

2016-07-06

Electrode properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in an all-solid-state lithium ion battery were investigated using poly-ethylene oxide (PEO) solid electrolyte. Charge-discharge curves of SWCNTs in the solid electrolyte cell were successfully observed. It was found that PEO electrolyte decomposes on the surface of SWCNTs.

Low-cost flexible supercapacitors based on laser reduced graphene oxide supported on polyethylene terephthalate substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghoniem, Engy; Mori, Shinsuke; Abdel-Moniem, Ahmed

2016-08-01

A controlled high powered CO2 laser system is used to reduce and pattern graphene oxide (GO) film supported onto a flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. The laser reduced graphene oxide (rGO) film is characterized and evaluated electrochemically in the absence and presence of an overlying anodicaly deposited thin film of pseuodcapactive MnO2 as electrodes for supercapacitor applications using aqueous electrolyte. The laser treatment of the GO film leads to an overlapped structure of defective multi-layer rGO sheets with an electrical conductivity of 273 S m-1. The rGO and MnO2/rGO electrodes exhibit specific capacitance in the range of 82-107 and 172-368 Fg-1 at applied current range of 0.1-1.0 mA cm-2 and retain 98 and 95% of their initial capacitances after 2000 cycles at a current density of 1.0 mA cm-2, respectively. Also, the rGO is assigned as an electrode material for flexible conventionally stacked and interdigitated in-plane supercapacitor structures using gel electrolyte. Three electrode architectures of 2, 4, and 6 sub-electrodes are studied for the interdigital in-plane design. The device with interdigital 6 sub-electrodes architecture I-PS(6) delivers power density of 537.1 Wcm-3 and an energy density of 0.45 mWh cm-3.

Experimental study of combustion in hydrogen peroxide hybrid rockets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wernimont, Eric John

Combustion behavior in a hydrogen peroxide oxidized hybrid rocket motor is investigated with a series of experiments. Hybrid chemical rocket propulsion is presently of interest due to reduced system complexity compared to classical chemical propulsion systems. Reduced system complexity, by use of a storable oxidizer and a hybrid configuration, is expected to reduce propulsive costs. The fuel in this study is polyethylene which has the potential of continuous manufacture leading to further reduced system costs. The study investigated parameters of interest for nominal design of a full scale hydrogen peroxide oxidized hybrid rocket. Amongst these parameters is the influence of chamber pressure, mass flux, fuel molecular weight and fuel density on fuel regression rate. Effects of chamber pressure and aft combustion length on combustion efficiency and non-acoustic combustion oscillations are also examined. The fuel regression behavior is found to be strongly influenced by both chamber pressure and mass flux. Combustion efficiencies in the upper 90% range are attained by simple changes to the aft combustion chamber length as well as increased combustion pressure. Fuel burning surface is found to be influenced by the density of the polyethylene polymer as well as molecular weight. The combustion is observed to be exceptionally smooth (oscillations less than 5% zero-to-peak of mean) in all motors tested in this program. Tests using both a single port fuel gain and a novel radial flow hybrid are also performed.

Photophysical and photochemical effects of UV and VUV photo-oxidation and photolysis on PET and PEN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morgan, Andrew

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a widely used polymer in the bottling, packaging, and clothing industry. In recent years an increasing global demand for PET has taken place due to the Solar Disinfection (SODIS) process. SODIS is a method of sterilizing fresh water into drinkable water. The PET bottles are used in the process to contain the water during solar irradiation due to its highly transparent optical property. Alongside PET, polyethylene 2,6-napthalate (PEN) is used in bottling and flexible electronic applications. The surface of PEN would need to be modified to control the hydrophilicity and the interaction it exudes as a substrate. The UV light absorption properties of PET and PEN are of great importance for many applications, and thus needs to be studied along with its photochemical resistance. The optical and chemical nature of PET was studied as it was treated by UV photo-oxidation, photo-ozonation, and photolysis under atmospheric pressure. Another investigation was also used to study PEN and PET as they are treated by vacuum UV (VUV) photo-oxidation, VUV photolysis, and remote oxygen reactions. The extent of the photoreactions' effect into the depth of the polymers is examined as treatment conditions are changed. The different experimental methods established the rate of several competing photoreactions on PET and PEN during irradiance, and their effect on the optical quality of the polymers.

Polyethylene glycol rinse solution: An effective way to prevent ischemia-reperfusion injury

PubMed Central

Zaouali, Mohamed Amine; Bejaoui, Mohamed; Calvo, Maria; Folch-Puy, Emma; Pantazi, Eirini; Pasut, Gianfranco; Rimola, Antoni; Ben Abdennebi, Hassen; Adam, René; Roselló-Catafau, Joan

2014-01-01

AIM: To test whether a new rinse solution containing polyethylene glycol 35 (PEG-35) could prevent ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) in liver grafts. METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rat livers were stored in University of Wisconsin preservation solution and then washed with different rinse solutions (Ringer’s lactate solution and a new rinse solution enriched with PEG-35 at either 1 or 5 g/L) before ex vivo perfusion with Krebs-Heinseleit buffer solution. We assessed the following: liver injury (transaminase levels), mitochondrial damage (glutamate dehydrogenase activity), liver function (bile output and vascular resistance), oxidative stress (malondialdehyde), nitric oxide, liver autophagy (Beclin-1 and LCB3) and cytoskeleton integrity (filament and globular actin fraction); as well as levels of metalloproteinases (MMP2 and MMP9), adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1). RESULTS: When we used the PEG-35 rinse solution, reduced hepatic injury and improved liver function were noted after reperfusion. The PEG-35 rinse solution prevented oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, and liver autophagy. Further, it increased the expression of cytoprotective heat shock proteins such as HO-1 and HSP70, activated AMPK, and contributed to the restoration of cytoskeleton integrity after IRI. CONCLUSION: Using the rinse solution containing PEG-35 was effective for decreasing liver graft vulnerability to IRI. PMID:25473175

Insights into the use of polyethylene oxide in energy storage/conversion devices: a critical review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arya, Anil; Sharma, A. L.

2017-11-01

In this review, the latest updates in poly (ethylene oxide) based electrolytes are summarized. The ultimate goal of researchers globally is towards the development of free-standing solid polymeric separators for energy storage devices. This single free-standing solid polymeric separator may replace the liquid and separator (organic/inorganic) used in existing efficient/smart energy technology. As an example, polyethylene oxide (PEO) consists of an electron donor-rich group which provides coordinating sites to the cation for migration. Owing to this exclusive structure, PEO exhibits some remarkable properties, such as a low glass transition temperature, excellent flexibility, and the ability to make complexation with various metal salts which are unattainable by another polymer host. Hence, the PEO is an emerging candidate that has been most examined or is currently under consideration for application in energy storage devices. This review article first provides a detailed study of the PEO properties, characteristics of the constituents of the polymer electrolyte, and suitable approaches for the modification of polymer electrolytes. Then, the synthesization and characterizations techniques are outlined. The structures, characteristics, and performance during charge-discharge of four types of electrolyte/separators (liquid, plasticized, and dispersed and intercalated electrolyte) are highlighted. The suitable ion transport mechanism proposed by researchers in different renowned groups have been discussed for the better understanding of the ion dynamics in such systems.

Preparation and evaluation of APTES-PEG coated iron oxide nanoparticles conjugated to rhenium-188 labeled rituximab.

PubMed

Azadbakht, Bakhtiar; Afarideh, Hossein; Ghannadi-Maragheh, Mohammad; Bahrami-Samani, Ali; Asgari, Mehdi

2017-05-01

Radioimmuno-conjugated (Rhenium-188 labeled Rituximab), 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)-polyethylene glycol (PEG) coated iron oxide nanoparticles were synthesized and then characterized. Therapeutic effect and targeting efficacy of complex were evaluated in CD20 express B cell lines and tumor bearing Balb/c mice respectively. To reach these purposes, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) were synthesized using coprecipitation method and then their surface was treated with APTES for increasing retention time of SPIONs in blood circulation and amine group creation. In the next step, N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) ester of polyethylene glycol maleimide (NHS-PEG-Mal) was conjugated to the APTES-treated SPIONs. After radiolabeling of Rituximab antibody with Rhenium-188 (T 1/2 =16.9h) using synthesized N 2 S 4 chelator, it was attached to the APTES-PEG-MAL-SPIONs surface through thiol-maleimide coupling reaction. In vitro evaluation of the 188 ReN 2 S 4 -Rituximab-SPION-complex thus obtained revealed that at 24 and 48h post-treatment effective cancer cell killing had been achieved. Bio-distribution study in tumor bearing mice showed capability of this complex for targeted cancer therapy. Active and passive tumor targeting strategies were applied through incorporated anti-CD20 (Rituximab) antibody and also enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect of solid tumors for nanoparticles respectively. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mars Aqueous Processing System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berggren, Mark; Wilson, Cherie; Carrera, Stacy; Rose, Heather; Muscatello, Anthony; Kilgore, James; Zubrin, Robert

2012-01-01

The goal of the Mars Aqueous Processing System (MAPS) is to establish a flexible process that generates multiple products that are useful for human habitation. Selectively extracting useful components into an aqueous solution, and then sequentially recovering individual constituents, can obtain a suite of refined or semi-refined products. Similarities in the bulk composition (although not necessarily of the mineralogy) of Martian and Lunar soils potentially make MAPS widely applicable. Similar process steps can be conducted on both Mars and Lunar soils while tailoring the reaction extents and recoveries to the specifics of each location. The MAPS closed-loop process selectively extracts, and then recovers, constituents from soils using acids and bases. The emphasis on Mars involves the production of useful materials such as iron, silica, alumina, magnesia, and concrete with recovery of oxygen as a byproduct. On the Moon, similar chemistry is applied with emphasis on oxygen production. This innovation has been demonstrated to produce high-grade materials, such as metallic iron, aluminum oxide, magnesium oxide, and calcium oxide, from lunar and Martian soil simulants. Most of the target products exhibited purities of 80 to 90 percent or more, allowing direct use for many potential applications. Up to one-fourth of the feed soil mass was converted to metal, metal oxide, and oxygen products. The soil residue contained elevated silica content, allowing for potential additional refining and extraction for recovery of materials needed for photovoltaic, semiconductor, and glass applications. A high-grade iron oxide concentrate derived from lunar soil simulant was used to produce a metallic iron component using a novel, combined hydrogen reduction/metal sintering technique. The part was subsequently machined and found to be structurally sound. The behavior of the lunar-simulant-derived iron product was very similar to that produced using the same methods on a Michigan iron ore concentrate, which demonstrates that lunar-derived material can be used in a manner similar to conventional terrestrial iron. Metallic iron was also produced from the Mars soil simulant. The aluminum and magnesium oxide products produced by MAPS from lunar and Mars soil simulants exhibited excellent thermal stability, and were shown to be capable of use for refractory oxide structural materials, or insulation at temperatures far in excess of what could be achieved using unrefined soils. These materials exhibited the refractory characteristics needed to support iron casting and forming operations, as well as other thermal processing needs. Extraction residue samples contained up to 79 percent silica. Such samples were successfully fused into a glass that exhibited high light transmittance.

Polyethyleneglycol/silver functionalized reduced graphene oxide aerogel for environmental application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumari, G. Vanitha; Asha, S.; Ananth, A. Nimrodh; Rajan, M. A. Jothi; Mathavan, T.

2018-04-01

Polyethylene glycol (PEG)/Silver (Ag) functionalized reduced graphene oxide aerogel (RGOA) was synthesized. PEG/Ag decorated reduced graphene oxide aerogel was characterized using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The surface morphology of PEG/Ag/RGOA was analyzed using scanning electron microscope. The non-covalent interaction between reduced graphene oxide layers and the interaction between PEG and Ag on RGOA were studied by FT-IR spectra. It was observed that the interaction between Ag and PEG could enhance the properties of RGOA. Methyl Orange (MO) dye degradation was observed from UV-Vis Spectra. The process was studied by monitoring the simultaneous decrease in the height of UV-Vis absorption peak of dye solution. The results show that PEG/RGOA and PEG/Ag/RGOA are an efficient catalyst for dye degradation.

Thermoresponsive complex amphiphilic block copolymer micelles investigated by laser light scattering.

PubMed

Zhao, Fang; Xie, Dinghai; Zhang, Guangzhao; Pispas, Stergios

2008-05-22

Poly(isoprene)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (PI-b-PEO) diblock copolymers form micelles in water. The introduction of poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(propylene oxide)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO) triblock copolymer leads to the formation of mixed micelles through hydrophobic interaction. The dimension of the mixed micelles varies with the weight ratio (r) of PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO to PI-b-PEO. By use of laser light scattering, we have investigated the temperature dependence of the structural evolution of the micelles at different r. At r<10, the size of the mixed micelles decreases with temperature. At r>10, due to the excessive PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO chains in solution, as temperature increases, the mixed micelles aggregate into larger micelle clusters.

Irradiation ageing of CSPE/EPR control command electric cables. Correlation between mechanical properties and oxidation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calmet, J. F.; Carlin, F.; Nguyen, T. M.; Bousquet, S.; Quinot, P.

2002-03-01

In this paper, correlations between the elongation at break and the oxidation of chlorosulfonated polyethylene and ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) polymers in instrumentation and control cables irradiated at different dose rates are brought to evidence. During irradiation, the following phenomena are observed: an increase of oxygen consumption, a degradation of the mechanical properties and a reduction of the oxidation induction time (OIT) measured for EPR. A correlation between the mechanical properties and the OIT of the EPR has only been established in the case of irradiation at low dose rate. This reveals a difference in the oxidative degradation process at low and high dose rates. This study shows the possibility to assess the ageing of electric cables installed inside nuclear power plants by OIT measurements.

Stability of color in Spanish-style green table olives pasteurized and stored in plastic containers.

PubMed

Sánchez, Antonio Higinio; López-López, Antonio; Beato, Víctor Manuel; de Castro, Antonio; Montaño, Alfredo

2017-08-01

There is an increasing interest in the use of pasteurizable plastic packaging by the olive industry. In order to investigate the change from traditional glass or varnished can containers to plastic packaging, the proper plastic material that is compatible with fermented olives while maintaining color quality during pasteurization treatment and storage must be selected. This work is focused on color stability in two distinct pasteurizable plastic containers with different oxygen permeability. In PET + MDPE/EVOH (polyethylene terephthalate + medium-density polyethylene/ethylene vinyl alcohol) pouches, pasteurization provoked severe browning which drastically decreased their color shelf life (<6 weeks). However, this browning did not occur in the unpasteurized product without preservatives owing to the presence of microorganisms. In AlOx-coated PET + MDPE (aluminum oxide coating on polyethylene terephthalate + medium-density polyethylene) pouches, color changes were small or negligible throughout storage, especially if ascorbic acid was added to the packing solution (shelf life > 6.5 months). The plastic material had a significant effect on the retention of color of the pasteurized product. The use of AlOx-coated PET + MDPE pouches could be an alternative to traditional packaging for the pasteurization and storage of Spanish-style green olives from a color quality standpoint. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Fabrication, characterization and gamma rays shielding properties of nano and micro lead oxide-dispersed-high density polyethylene composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahmoud, Mohamed E.; El-Khatib, Ahmed M.; Badawi, Mohamed S.; Rashad, Amal R.; El-Sharkawy, Rehab M.; Thabet, Abouzeid A.

2018-04-01

Polymer composites of high-density polyethylene (HD-PE) filled with powdered lead oxide nanoparticles (PbO NPs) and bulk lead oxide (PbO Blk) were prepared with filler weight fraction [10% and 50%]. These polymer composites were investigated for radiation-shielding of gamma-rays emitted from radioactive point sources [241Am, 133Ba, 137Cs, and 60Co]. The polymer was found to decrease the heaviness of the shielding material and increase the flexibility while the metal oxide fillers acted as principle radiation attenuators in the polymer composite. The prepared composites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area (BET) and field emission transmission electron microscope (FE-TEM). The morphological analysis of the assembled composites showed that, PbO NPs and PbO Blk materials exhibited homogenous dispersion in the polymer-matrix. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) demonstrated that the thermal-stability of HD-PE was enhanced in the presence of both PbO Blk and PbO NPs. The results declared that, the density of polymer composites was increase with the percentage of filler contents. The highest density value was identified as 1.652 g cm-3 for 50 wt% of PbO NPs. Linear attenuation coefficients (μ) have been estimated from the use of XCOM code and measured results. Reasonable agreement was attended between theoretical and experimental results. These composites were also found to display excellent percentage of heaviness with respect to other conventional materials.

Chemical properties and colors of fermenting materials in salmon fish sauce production.

PubMed

Nakano, Mitsutoshi; Sagane, Yoshimasa; Koizumi, Ryosuke; Nakazawa, Yozo; Yamazaki, Masao; Watanabe, Toshihiro; Takano, Katsumi; Sato, Hiroaki

2018-02-01

This data article reports the chemical properties (moisture, pH, salinity, and soluble solid content) and colors of fermenting materials in salmon fish sauce products. The fish sauce was produced by mixing salt with differing proportions of raw salmon materials and fermenting for three months; the salmon materials comprised flesh, viscera, an inedible portion, and soft roe. Chemical properties and colors of the unrefined fish sauce ( moromi ), and the refined fish sauce, were analyzed at one, two, and three months following the start of fermentation. Data determined for all products are provided in table format.

Radiation Hard Active Media R&D for CMS Hadron Endcap Calorimetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tiras, Emrah; CMS-HCAL Collaboration

2015-04-01

The High Luminosity LHC era imposes unprecedented radiation conditions on the CMS detectors targeting a factor of 5-10 higher than the LHC design luminosity. The CMS detectors will need to be upgraded in order to withstand these conditions yet maintain/improve the physics measurement capabilities. One of the upgrade options is reconstructing the CMS Endcap Calorimeters with a shashlik design electromagnetic section and replacing active media of the hadronic section with radiation-hard scintillation materials. In this context, we have studied various radiation-hard materials such as Polyethylene Naphthalate (PEN), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), HEM and quartz plates coated with various organic materials such as p-Terphenyl (pTp), Gallium doped Zinc Oxide (ZnO:Ga) and Anthracene. Here we discuss the related test beam activities, laboratory measurements and recent developments.

Catechol-grafted poly(ethylene glycol) for PEGylation on versatile substrates.

PubMed

Lee, Hyukjin; Lee, Kang Dae; Pyo, Kyung Bo; Park, Sung Young; Lee, Haeshin

2010-03-16

We report on catechol-grafted poly(ethylene) glycol (PEG-g-catechol) for the preparation of nonfouling surfaces on versatile substrates including adhesion-resistant PTFE. PEG-g-catechol was prepared by the step-growth polymerization of PEO to which dopamine, a mussel-derived adhesive molecule, was conjugated. The immersion of substrates into an aqueous solution of PEG-g-catechol resulted in robust PEGylation on versatile surfaces of noble metals, oxides, and synthetic polymers. Surface PEGylation was unambiguously confirmed by various surface analytical tools such as ellipsometry, goniometry, infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Contrary to existing PEG derivatives that are difficult-to-modify synthetic polymer surfaces, PEG-g-catechol can be considered to be a new class of PEGs for the facile surface PEGylation of various types of surfaces.

Synthesis and Characterization of Hydrophilic-Hydrophobic Poly(Arylene Ether Sulfone) Random and Segmented Copolymers for Membrane Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nebipasagil, Ali

Poly(arylene ether sulfone)s are high-performance engineering thermoplastics that have been investigated extensively over the past several decades due to their outstanding mechanical properties, high glass transition temperatures (Tg), solvent resistance and exceptional thermal, oxidative and hydrolytic stability. Their thermal and mechanical properties are highly suited to a variety of applications including membrane applications such as reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, and gas separation. This dissertation covers structure-property-performance relationships of poly(arylene ether sulfone) and poly(ethylene oxide)-containing random and segmented copolymers for reverse osmosis and gas separation membranes. The second chapter of this dissertation describes synthesis of disulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone) random copolymers with oligomeric molecular weights that contain hydrophilic and hydrophobic segments for thin film composite (TFC) reverse osmosis membranes. These copolymers were synthesized and chemically modified to obtain novel crosslinkable poly(arylene ether sulfone) oligomers with acrylamide groups on both ends. The acrylamideterminated oligomers were crosslinked with UV radiation in the presence of a multifunctional acrylate and a UV initiator. Transparent, dense films were obtained with high gel fractions. Mechanically robust TFC membranes were prepared from either aqueous or water-methanol solutions cast onto a commercial UDELRTM foam support. This was the first example that utilized a water or alcohol solvent system and UV radiation to obtain reverse osmosis TFC membranes. The membranes were characterized with regard to composition, surface properties, and water uptake. Water and salt transport properties were elucidated at the department of chemical engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. The gas separation membranes presented in chapter three were poly(arylene ether sulfone) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-containing polyurethanes. Poly(arylene ether sulfone) copolymers with controlled molecular weights were synthesized and chemically modified to obtain poly(arylene ether sulfone) polyols with aliphatic hydroxyethyl terminal functionality. The hydroxyethyl-terminated oligomers and a,u-hydroxy-terminated PEO were chain extended with a diisocyanate to obtain polyurethanes. Compositions with high poly(arylene ether sulfone) content relative to the hydrophilic PEO blocks were of interest due to their mechanical integrity. The membranes were characterized to analyze their compositions, thermal and mechanical properties, water uptake, and molecular weights. These membranes were also evaluated by collaborators at the University of Texas at Austin to explore single gas transport properties. The results showed that both polymer and transport properties closely related to PEO-content. The CO2/CH4 gas selectivity of our membranes were improved from 25 to 34 and the CO2/N2 gas selectivity nearly doubled from 25 to 46 by increasing PEO-content from 0 to 30 wt.% in polyurethanes. Chapter four also focuses on polymers for gas separation membranes. Disulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone) and poly(ethylene oxide)-containing polyurethanes were synthesized for potential applications as gas separation membranes. Disulfonated polyols containing 20 and 40 mole percent of disulfonated repeat units with controlled molecular weights were synthesized. Poly(arylene ether sulfone) polyols and alpha,o-hydroxy-terminated poly(ethylene oxide) were subsequently chain extended with a diisocyanate to obtain polyurethanes. Thermal and mechanical characterization revealed that the polyurethanes had a phase-mixed complex morphology.

Development of biodegradable metaloxide/polymer nanocomposite films based on poly-ε-caprolactone and terephthalic acid.

PubMed

Varaprasad, Kokkarachedu; Pariguana, Manuel; Raghavendra, Gownolla Malegowd; Jayaramudu, Tippabattini; Sadiku, Emmanuel Rotimi

2017-01-01

The present investigation describes the development of metal-oxide polymer nanocomposite films from biodegradable poly-ε-caprolactone, disposed poly(ethylene terephthalate) oil bottles monomer and zinc oxide-copper oxide nanoparticles. The terephthalic acid and zinc oxide-copper oxide nanoparticles were synthesized by using a temperature-dependent precipitation technique and double precipitation method, respectively. The terephthalic acid synthesized was confirmed by FTIR analysis and furthermore, it was characterized by thermal analysis. The as-prepared CuO-ZnO nanoparticles structure was confirmed by XRD analysis and its morphology was analyzed by SEM/EDS and TEM. Furthermore, the metal-oxide polymer nanocomposite films have excellent mechanical properties, with tensile strength and modulus better than pure films. The metal-oxide polymer nanocomposite films that were successfully developed show a relatively brighter colour when compared to CuO film. These new metal-oxide polymer nanocomposite films can replace many non-degradable plastics. The new metal-oxide polymer nanocomposite films developed are envisaged to be suitable for use in industrial and domestic packaging applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of Boron and Phosphate compounds on Thermal and Fire Properties of wood/HDPE composites

Treesearch

Turgay Akbulut; Nadir Ayrilmis; Turker Dundar; Ali Durmus; Robert H. White; Murat Teker

2011-01-01

Melting and non-isothermal crystallization behaviors, oxidative induction time, and fire performance of the injection-molded wood flour-high density polyethylene (HDPE) composites (WPCs) incorporated with different levels (4, 8, or 12 wt %) of boron compounds [borax/boric acid (BX/BA) (0.5:0.5 wt %), zinc borate (ZB)] and phosphorus compounds [mono- and di-ammonium...

[Hemodynamic and rheological effects of polyetox in rats with crush syndrome].

PubMed

Plotnikov, M B; Chernyshova, G A; Smol'iakova, V I; Aliev, O I; Sutormina, T G

2004-01-01

Polyetox, a medicinal form of high-molecular-weight poly(ethylene oxide) (HMWPEO) improved peripheral blood supply, normalized the overall oxygen consumption, decreased erythrocyte aggregation, and reduced blood viscosity at low shear rate, and restored the antiturbulent properties (hydrodynamic index) of blood in the experiments on rats with crush syndrome. In rats with low resistance, polyetox increased the cardiac output.

Generation of a mesoporous silica MSU shell onto solid core silica nanoparticles using a simple two-step sol-gel process.

PubMed

Allouche, Joachim; Dupin, Jean-Charles; Gonbeau, Danielle

2011-07-14

Silica core-shell nanoparticles with a MSU shell have been synthesized using several non-ionic poly(ethylene oxide) based surfactants via a two step sol-gel method. The materials exhibit a typical worm-hole pore structure and tunable pore diameters between 2.4 nm and 5.8 nm.

Antimicrobial Wound Dressing. Phase 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-06-11

12 a. Antimicrobial Sensitivity Tests 12 b. Anin.il Model 13 5. Preparatiua of Microcapsules 14 B. Results 15 1. AIn Vit Diffusion 15 a. PVA... Microcapsules 35 Table 5 Tetracycline Hydrochloride Cellulose 36 Triacetate Microcapsules Table 6 Polyethylene Oxide Hydrogels 37 Table 7 Swelling of...Water and Crosslinking Effect Figure 24 In Vi trq Chlorhexidine Release 70 Polyacrylamide Hydrogel - Microcapsules Figure 25 In _Vitro Tetracycline

21 CFR 178.3750 - Polyethylene glycol (mean molecular weight 200-9,500).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... conditions: (a) The additive is an addition polymer of ethylene oxide and water with a mean molecular weight of 200 to 9,500. (b) It contains no more than 0.2 percent total by weight of ethylene and diethylene... ethylene and diethylene glycols if its mean molecular weight is below 350, when tested by the analytical...

21 CFR 172.820 - Polyethylene glycol (mean molecular weight 200-9,500).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... ethylene oxide and water with a mean molecular weight of 200 to 9,500. (2) It contains no more than 0.2..., or equivalent) 12 percent in H2O by weight on 60-80 mesh nonacid washed diatomaceous earth... in cylinder equipped with reducing regulator to provide 50 p.s.i.g. to the gas chromatograph...

21 CFR 172.820 - Polyethylene glycol (mean molecular weight 200-9,500).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... ethylene oxide and water with a mean molecular weight of 200 to 9,500. (2) It contains no more than 0.2..., or equivalent) 12 percent in H2O by weight on 60-80 mesh nonacid washed diatomaceous earth... in cylinder equipped with reducing regulator to provide 50 p.s.i.g. to the gas chromatograph...

A novel chitosan-polyethylene oxide nanofibrous mat designed for controlled co-release of hydrocortisone and imipenem/cilastatin drugs.

PubMed

Fazli, Yousef; Shariatinia, Zahra; Kohsari, Iraj; Azadmehr, Amirreza; Pourmortazavi, Seied Mahdi

2016-11-20

Antimicrobial chitosan-polyethylene oxide (CS-PEO) nanofibrous mats containing ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) and hydrocortisone-imipenem/cilastatin-loaded ZnO NPs were produced by electrospinning technique. The FE-SEM images displayed that the spherical ZnO NPs were ∼70-200nm in size and the CS-PEO nanofibers were very uniform and free of any beads which had average diameters within the range of ∼20-130nm. For all of the nanofibrous mats, the water uptakes were the highest in acidic medium but they were decreased in the buffer and the least swellings were obtained in the alkaline environment. The drug incorporated mat preserved its bactericidal activity even after it was utilized in the release experiment for 8days in the PBS buffer. The hydrocortisone release was increased to 82% within first 12h while the release rate of imipenem/cilastatin was very much slower so that 20% of the drug was released during this period of time suggesting this nanofibrous mat is very suitable to inhibit inflammation (by hydrocortisone) and infection (using imipenem/cilastatin antibiotic and ZnO NPs) principally for the wound dressing purposes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Simulation of synaptic short-term plasticity using Ba(CF3SO3)2-doped polyethylene oxide electrolyte film.

PubMed

Chang, C T; Zeng, F; Li, X J; Dong, W S; Lu, S H; Gao, S; Pan, F

2016-01-07

The simulation of synaptic plasticity using new materials is critical in the study of brain-inspired computing. Devices composed of Ba(CF3SO3)2-doped polyethylene oxide (PEO) electrolyte film were fabricated and with pulse responses found to resemble the synaptic short-term plasticity (STP) of both short-term depression (STD) and short-term facilitation (STF) synapses. The values of the charge and discharge peaks of the pulse responses did not vary with input number when the pulse frequency was sufficiently low(~1 Hz). However, when the frequency was increased, the charge and discharge peaks decreased and increased, respectively, in gradual trends and approached stable values with respect to the input number. These stable values varied with the input frequency, which resulted in the depressed and potentiated weight modifications of the charge and discharge peaks, respectively. These electrical properties simulated the high and low band-pass filtering effects of STD and STF, respectively. The simulations were consistent with biological results and the corresponding biological parameters were successfully extracted. The study verified the feasibility of using organic electrolytes to mimic STP.

Wearable supercapacitors on polyethylene terephthalate fabrics with good wash fastness and high flexibility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Guixia; Babaahmadi, Vahid; He, Nanfei; Liu, Yixin; Pan, Qin; Montazer, Majid; Gao, Wei

2017-11-01

All solid-state micro-supercapacitors (MSC) have emerged as attractive energy-storage units for portable and wearable electronics. Here, we describe a textile-based solid-state MSC via laser scribing of graphene oxide (GO) coatings on a flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric. The laser-scribed graphene oxide layers (LGO) possess three-dimensionally porous structure suitable for electrochemical-double-layer formation. To improve the wash fastness and the flexibility of the as-prepared MSCs, glutaraldehyde (GA) was employed to crosslink the GO layers and PVA-gel electrolyte onto the PET fabric. The resultant all solid-state MSCs exhibited excellent flexibility, high areal specific capacitance (756 μF·cm-2 at 20 mV·s-1), and good rate capability when subject to bending and laundering. Furthermore, the MSC device showed a high power density of about 1.4 W·cm-3 and an energy density of 5.3 × 10-5 Wh·cm-3, and retained 98.3% of its initial capacitance after 1000 cycles at a current density of 0.5 mA·cm-2. This work is the first demonstration of in-plane MSCs on PET fabric surfaces with enhanced durability and flexibility.

New release cell for NMR microimaging of tablets. Swelling and erosion of poly(ethylene oxide).

PubMed

Abrahmsén-Alami, Susanna; Körner, Anna; Nilsson, Ingvar; Larsson, Anette

2007-09-05

A small release cell, in the form of a rotating disc, has been constructed to fit into the MRI equipment. The present work show that both qualitative and quantitative information of the swelling and erosion behavior of hydrophilic extended release (ER) matrix tablets may be obtained using this release cell and non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies at different time-points during matrix dissolution. The tablet size, core size and the gel layer thickness of ER matrix formulations based on poly(ethylene oxide) have been determined. The dimensional changes as a function of time were found to correspond well to observations made with texture analysis (TA) methodology. Most importantly, the results of the present study show that both the erosion (displacement of the gel-dissolution media interface) and the swelling (decrease of dry tablet core size) proceed with a faster rate in radial than in axial direction using the rotating disk set-up. This behavior was attributed to the higher shear forces experienced in the radial direction. The results also indicate that front synchronization (constant gel layer thickness) is associated with the formation of an almost constant polymer concentration profile through the gel layer at different time-points.

Insights on Li-TFSI diffusion in polyethylene oxide for battery applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molinari, Nicola; Mailoa, Jonathan; Kozinsky, Boris; Robert Bosch LLC Collaboration

Improving the energy density, safety and efficiency of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries is crucial for the future of energy storage and applications such as electric cars. A key step in the research of next-generation solid polymeric electrolyte materials is understanding the diffusion mechanism of Li-ion in polyethylene oxide (PEO) in order to guide the design of electrolytes materials with high Li-ion diffusion while, ideally, suppress counter-anion movement. In this work we use computer simulations to investigate this long-standing problem at a fundamental level. The system under study has Li-TFSI concentration and PEO chain length that are representative of practical application specifications; the interactions of the molecular model are described via the PCFF+ all-atom force-field. Validation of the model is performed by comparing trends against experiments for diffusivity and conductivity as a function of salt concentration. The analysis of Li-TFSI molecular dynamics trajectories reveals that 1. for high Li-TFSI concentration a significant fraction of Li-ion is coordinated by only TFSI and consistently move less than PEO-coordinated Li-ion, 2. PEO chain motion is key in enabling Li-ion movement. Robert Bosch LLC.

Comparison of Surfactants Used to Prepare Aqueous Perfluoropentane Emulsions for Pharmaceutical Applications

PubMed Central

Kandadai, Madhuvanthi A.; Mohan, Praveena; Lin, Genyao; Butterfield, Anthony; Skliar, Mikhail; Magda, Jules J.

2010-01-01

Perfluoropentane (PFP), a highly hydrophobic, non-toxic, non-carcinogenic fluoroalkane, has generated much interest in biomedical applications, including occlusion therapy and controlled drug delivery. For most of these applications, the dispersion within aqueous media of a large quantity of PFP droplets of the proper size is critically important. Surprisingly, the interfacial tension of PFP against water in the presence of surfactants used to stabilize the emulsion has rarely, if ever, been measured. In this study, we report the interfacial tension of PFP in the presence of surfactants used in previous studies to produce emulsions for biomedical applications: polyethylene oxide-co-polylactic acid (PEO-PLA, and polyethylene oxide-co-poly-ε-caprolactone (PEO-PCL). Since both of these surfactants are uncharged diblock copolymers that rely on the mechanism of steric stabilization, we also investigate for comparison’s sake use of the small molecule cationic surfactant cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB), and the much larger protein surfactant bovine serum albumin (BSA). The results presented here complement previous reports of the PFP droplet size distribution, and will be useful for determining to what extent the interfacial tension value can be used to control the mean PFP droplet size. PMID:20218695

Enhanced lithium battery with polyethylene oxide-based electrolyte containing silane-Al2 O3 ceramic filler.

PubMed

Zewde, Berhanu W; Admassie, Shimelis; Zimmermann, Jutta; Isfort, Christian Schulze; Scrosati, Bruno; Hassoun, Jusef

2013-08-01

A solid polymer electrolyte prepared by using a solvent-free, scalable technique is reported. The membrane is formed by low-energy ball milling followed by hot-pressing of dry powdered polyethylene oxide polymer, LiCF3 SO3 salt, and silane-treated Al2 O3 (Al2 O3 -ST) ceramic filler. The effects of the ceramic fillers on the properties of the ionically conducting solid electrolyte membrane are characterized by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, XRD, differential scanning calorimeter, SEM, and galvanostatic cycling in lithium cells with a LiFePO4 cathode. We demonstrate that the membrane containing Al2 O3 -ST ceramic filler performs well in terms of ionic conductivity, thermal properties, and lithium transference number. Furthermore, we show that the lithium cells, which use the new electrolyte together with the LiFePO4 electrode, operate within 65 and 90 °C with high efficiency and long cycle life. Hence, the Al2 O3 -ST ceramic can be efficiently used as a ceramic filler to enhance the performance of solid polymer electrolytes in lithium batteries. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Simulation of synaptic short-term plasticity using Ba(CF3SO3)2-doped polyethylene oxide electrolyte film

PubMed Central

Chang, C. T.; Zeng, F.; Li, X. J.; Dong, W. S.; Lu, S. H.; Gao, S.; Pan, F.

2016-01-01

The simulation of synaptic plasticity using new materials is critical in the study of brain-inspired computing. Devices composed of Ba(CF3SO3)2-doped polyethylene oxide (PEO) electrolyte film were fabricated and with pulse responses found to resemble the synaptic short-term plasticity (STP) of both short-term depression (STD) and short-term facilitation (STF) synapses. The values of the charge and discharge peaks of the pulse responses did not vary with input number when the pulse frequency was sufficiently low(~1 Hz). However, when the frequency was increased, the charge and discharge peaks decreased and increased, respectively, in gradual trends and approached stable values with respect to the input number. These stable values varied with the input frequency, which resulted in the depressed and potentiated weight modifications of the charge and discharge peaks, respectively. These electrical properties simulated the high and low band-pass filtering effects of STD and STF, respectively. The simulations were consistent with biological results and the corresponding biological parameters were successfully extracted. The study verified the feasibility of using organic electrolytes to mimic STP. PMID:26739613

Conformational sensitivity of conjugated poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(amidoamine) molecules to cations adducted upon electrospray ionization - a mass spectrometry, ion mobility and molecular modeling study.

PubMed

Tintaru, Aura; Chendo, Christophe; Wang, Qi; Viel, Stéphane; Quéléver, Gilles; Peng, Ling; Posocco, Paola; Pricl, Sabrina; Charles, Laurence

2014-01-15

Tandem mass spectrometry and ion mobility spectrometry experiments were performed on multiply charged molecules formed upon conjugation of a poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimer with a poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) linear polymer to evidence any conformational modification as a function of their charge state (2+ to 4+) and of the adducted cation (H(+)vs Li(+)). Experimental findings were rationalized by molecular dynamics simulations. The G0 PAMAM head-group could accommodate up to three protons, with protonated terminal amine group enclosed in a pseudo 18-crown-6 ring formed by the PEO segment. This particular conformation enabled a hydrogen bond network which allowed long-range proton transfer to occur during collisionally activated dissociation. In contrast, lithium adduction was found to mainly occur onto oxygen atoms of the polyether, each Li(+) cation being coordinated by a 12-crown-4 pseudo structure. As a result, for the studied polymeric segment (Mn=1500gmol(-1)), PEO-PAMAM hybrid molecules exhibited a more expanded shape when adducted to lithium as compared to proton. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dependence of Ion Dynamics on the Polymer Chain Length in Poly(ethylene oxide)-Based Polymer Electrolytes.

PubMed

Chattoraj, Joyjit; Knappe, Marisa; Heuer, Andreas

2015-06-04

It is known from experiments that in the polymer electrolyte system, which contains poly(ethylene oxide) chains (PEO), lithium-cations (Li(+)), and bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide-anions (TFSI(-)), the cation and the anion diffusion and the ionic conductivity exhibit a similar chain-length dependence: with increasing chain length, they start dropping steadily, and later, they saturate to constant values. These results are surprising because Li-cations are strongly correlated with the polymer chains, whereas TFSI-anions do not have such bonding. To understand this phenomenon, we perform molecular dynamics simulations of this system for four different polymer chain lengths. The diffusion results obtained from our simulations display excellent agreement with the experimental data. The cation transport model based on the Rouse dynamics can successfully quantify the Li-diffusion results, which correlates Li diffusion with the polymer center-of-mass motion and the polymer segmental motion. The ionic conductivity as a function of the chain length is then estimated based on the chain-length-dependent ion diffusion, which shows a temperature-dependent deviation for short chain lengths. We argue that in the first regime, counterion correlations modify the conductivity, whereas for the long chains, the system behaves as a strong electrolyte.

Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Strain-Induced Phase Transition of Poly(ethylene oxide) in Water.

PubMed

Donets, Sergii; Sommer, Jens-Uwe

2018-01-11

We study the dilute aqueous solutions of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) oligomers that are subject to an elongating force dipole acting on both chain ends using atomistic molecular dynamics. By increasing the force, liquid-liquid demixing can be observed at room temperature far below the lower critical solution temperature. For forces above 35 pN, fibrillar nanostructures are spontaneously formed related to a decrease in hydrogen bonding between PEO and water. Most notable is a rapid decrease in the bifurcated hydrogen bonds during stretching, which can also be observed for isolated single chains. The phase-segregated structures display signs of chain ordering, but a clear signature of the crystalline order is not obtained during the simulation time, indicating a liquid-liquid phase transition induced by chain stretching. Our results indicate that the solvent quality of the aqueous solution of PEO depends on the conformational state of the chains, which is most likely related to the specific hydrogen-bond-induced solvation of PEO in water. The strain-induced demixing of PEO opens the possibility to obtain polymer fibers with low energy costs because crystallization starts via the strain-induced demixing in the extended state only.

Simulation of synaptic short-term plasticity using Ba(CF3SO3)2-doped polyethylene oxide electrolyte film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, C. T.; Zeng, F.; Li, X. J.; Dong, W. S.; Lu, S. H.; Gao, S.; Pan, F.

2016-01-01

The simulation of synaptic plasticity using new materials is critical in the study of brain-inspired computing. Devices composed of Ba(CF3SO3)2-doped polyethylene oxide (PEO) electrolyte film were fabricated and with pulse responses found to resemble the synaptic short-term plasticity (STP) of both short-term depression (STD) and short-term facilitation (STF) synapses. The values of the charge and discharge peaks of the pulse responses did not vary with input number when the pulse frequency was sufficiently low(~1 Hz). However, when the frequency was increased, the charge and discharge peaks decreased and increased, respectively, in gradual trends and approached stable values with respect to the input number. These stable values varied with the input frequency, which resulted in the depressed and potentiated weight modifications of the charge and discharge peaks, respectively. These electrical properties simulated the high and low band-pass filtering effects of STD and STF, respectively. The simulations were consistent with biological results and the corresponding biological parameters were successfully extracted. The study verified the feasibility of using organic electrolytes to mimic STP.

Solid dispersion of acetaminophen and poly(ethylene oxide) prepared by hot-melt mixing.

PubMed

Yang, Min; Wang, Peng; Huang, Chien-Yueh; Ku, M Sherry; Liu, Huiju; Gogos, Costas

2010-08-16

In this study, a model drug, acetaminophen (APAP), was melt mixed with poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) using a Brabender mixer. APAP was found to recrystallize upon cooling to room temperature for all the drug loadings investigated. Higher drug loading leads to faster recrystallization rate. However, the morphology of the recrystallized drug crystals is identical in samples with different drug loadings and does not change with the storage time. To adjust the drug's dissolution rate, nanoclay Cloisite 15A and 30B were added into the binary mixture. The presence of either of the nanoclay dramatically accelerates the drug's recrystallization rate and slows down the drug's releasing rate. The drop of the releasing rate is mainly due to the decrease of wettability, as supported by the contact angle data. Data analysis of the dissolution results suggests that the addition of nanoclays changes the drug's release mechanism from erosion dominant to diffusion dominant. This study suggests that nanoclays may be utilized to tailor the drug's releasing rate and to improve the dosage form's stability by dramatically shortening the lengthy recrystallization process. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Chemically specific coarse-grained models to investigate the structure of biomimetic membranes

DOE PAGES

Kowalik, Ma?gorzata; Schantz, Allen B.; Naqi, Abdullah; ...

2017-11-29

Biomimetic polymer/protein membranes are promising materials for DNA sequencing, sensors, drug delivery and water purification. These self-assembled structures are made from low molecular weight amphiphilic block copolymers (N hydrophobic < 40 for a diblock copolymer), including poly(ethylene oxide)–1,2-polybutadiene (EO–1,2-BD) and poly(ethylene oxide)–poly(ethyl ethylene) (EO–EE). To examine these membranes' nanoscale structure, we developed a coarse-grained molecular dynamics (CG MD) model for EO–1,2-BD and assembled a CG MD model for EO–EE using parameters from two published force fields. We observe that the polymers' hydrophobic core blocks are slightly stretched compared to the random coil configuration seen at higher molecular weights. We alsomore » observe an increase in the interdigitation of the hydrophobic leaflets with increasing molecular weight (consistent with literature). The hydration level of the EO corona (which may influence protein incorporation) is higher for membranes with a larger area/chain, regardless of whether EE or 1,2-BD forms the hydrophobic block. Our results provide a molecular-scale view of membrane packing and hydrophobicity, two important properties for creating polymer–protein biomimetic membranes.« less

Chemically specific coarse-grained models to investigate the structure of biomimetic membranes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kowalik, Ma?gorzata; Schantz, Allen B.; Naqi, Abdullah

Biomimetic polymer/protein membranes are promising materials for DNA sequencing, sensors, drug delivery and water purification. These self-assembled structures are made from low molecular weight amphiphilic block copolymers (N hydrophobic < 40 for a diblock copolymer), including poly(ethylene oxide)–1,2-polybutadiene (EO–1,2-BD) and poly(ethylene oxide)–poly(ethyl ethylene) (EO–EE). To examine these membranes' nanoscale structure, we developed a coarse-grained molecular dynamics (CG MD) model for EO–1,2-BD and assembled a CG MD model for EO–EE using parameters from two published force fields. We observe that the polymers' hydrophobic core blocks are slightly stretched compared to the random coil configuration seen at higher molecular weights. We alsomore » observe an increase in the interdigitation of the hydrophobic leaflets with increasing molecular weight (consistent with literature). The hydration level of the EO corona (which may influence protein incorporation) is higher for membranes with a larger area/chain, regardless of whether EE or 1,2-BD forms the hydrophobic block. Our results provide a molecular-scale view of membrane packing and hydrophobicity, two important properties for creating polymer–protein biomimetic membranes.« less

Preparation, properties and biological application of pH-sensitive poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) hydrogels grafted with acrylic acid(AAc) using gamma-ray irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nho, Young Chang; Mook Lim, Youn; Moo Lee, Young

2004-09-01

pH-sensitive hydrogels were studied as a drug carrier for the protection of insulin from the acidic environment of the stomach before releasing it in the small intestine. In this study, hydrogels based on poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) networks grafted with acrylic acid (AAc) were prepared via a two-step process. PEO hydrogels were prepared by γ-ray irradiation, and then grafting by AAc monomer onto the PEO hydrogels with the subsequent irradiation (radiation dose: 5-20 kGy, dose rate: 2.15 kGy/h). These grafted hydrogels showed a pH-sensitive swelling behavior. The grafted hydrogels were used as a carrier for the drug delivery systems for the controlled release of insulin. The in vitro drug release behaviors of these hydrogels were examined by quantification analysis with a UV/VIS spectrophotometer. Insulin was loaded into freeze-dried hydrogels (7 mm×3 mm×2.5 mm) and administrated orally to healthy and diabetic Wistar rats. The oral administration of insulin-loaded hydrogels to Wistar rats decreased the blood glucose levels obviously for at least 4 h due to the absorption of insulin in the gastrointestinal tract.

Influence of the nanotube oxidation on the rheological and electrical properties of CNT/HDPE composites

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nobile, Maria Rossella, E-mail: mrnobile@unisa.it; Somma, Elvira; Valentino, Olga

Rheological and electrical properties of nanocomposites based on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) and high density polyethylene (HDPE), prepared by melt mixing in a micro-twin screw extruder, have been investigated. The effect of MWNT concentration (0.5 and 2.5 wt %) and nanotube surface treatment (oxidative treatment in a tubular furnace at 500°C for 1 hr in a 95% nitrogen, 5% oxygen atmosphere) has been analyzed. It has been found that the sample conductivity with oxidation of the nanotubes decreases more than 2 orders of magnitude. Scanning electron microscopy showed good adhesion and dispersion of nanotubes in the matrix, independently of themore » surface treatment. Electrical and rheological measurements revealed that the oxidative treatment, causing some reduction of the MWNT quality, decreases the efficiency of the nanotube matrix interaction.« less

Medical implants and methods of making medical implants

DOEpatents

Shaw, Wendy J; Yonker, Clement R; Fulton, John L; Tarasevich, Barbara J; McClain, James B; Taylor, Doug

2014-09-16

A medical implant device having a substrate with an oxidized surface and a silane derivative coating covalently bonded to the oxidized surface. A bioactive agent is covalently bonded to the silane derivative coating. An implantable stent device including a stent core having an oxidized surface with a layer of silane derivative covalently bonded thereto. A spacer layer comprising polyethylene glycol (PEG) is covalently bonded to the layer of silane derivative and a protein is covalently bonded to the PEG. A method of making a medical implant device including providing a substrate having a surface, oxidizing the surface and reacting with derivitized silane to form a silane coating covalently bonded to the surface. A bioactive agent is then covalently bonded to the silane coating. In particular instances, an additional coating of bio-absorbable polymer and/or pharmaceutical agent is deposited over the bioactive agent.

Molecular Dynamics Studies of Polyethylene Oxide and Polyethylene Glycol: Hydrodynamic Radius and Shape Anisotropy

PubMed Central

Lee, Hwankyu; Venable, Richard M.; MacKerell, Alexander D.; Pastor, Richard W.

2008-01-01

A revision (C35r) to the CHARMM ether force field is shown to reproduce experimentally observed conformational populations of dimethoxyethane. Molecular dynamics simulations of 9, 18, 27, and 36-mers of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and 27-mers of polyethylene glycol (PEG) in water based on C35r yield a persistence length λ = 3.7 Å, in quantitative agreement with experimentally obtained values of 3.7 Å for PEO and 3.8 Å for PEG; agreement with experimental values for hydrodynamic radii of comparably sized PEG is also excellent. The exponent υ relating the radius of gyration and molecular weight (\\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}R_{{\\mathrm{g}}}{\\propto}M_{{\\mathrm{w}}}^{{\\upsilon}}\\end{equation*}\\end{document}) of PEO from the simulations equals 0.515 ± 0.023, consistent with experimental observations that low molecular weight PEG behaves as an ideal chain. The shape anisotropy of hydrated PEO is 2.59:1.44:1.00. The dimension of the middle length for each of the polymers nearly equals the hydrodynamic radius \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}R_{{\\mathrm{h}}}\\end{equation*}\\end{document}obtained from diffusion measurements in solution. This explains the correspondence of \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}R_{{\\mathrm{h}}}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} and \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}R_{{\\mathrm{p}}},\\end{equation*}\\end{document} the pore radius of membrane channels: a polymer such as PEG diffuses with its long axis parallel to the membrane channel, and passes through the channel without substantial distortion. PMID:18456821

Experimental Study on the Efficacy of Site-Specific PEGylated Human Serum Albumins in Resuscitation From Hemorrhagic Shock.

PubMed

Song, Xinlei; Zhang, Shu; Cheng, Yanna; Zhao, Ting; Lian, Qianqian; Lu, Lu; Wang, Fengshan

2016-11-01

To evaluate the resuscitative efficacy and the effect on reperfusion injury of two site-specific PEGylated human serum albumins modified with linear or branched PEG20kDa, compared with saline, 8% human serum albumin and 25% human serum albumin, in a hemorrhagic shock model. Laboratory. Male Wistar rats. Prospective study. Rats were bled to hemorrhagic hypovolemic shock and resuscitated with different resuscitation fluids. The mean arterial pressure and blood gas variables were measured. Hemorheology analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of resuscitation on RBCs and blood viscosity. The microvascular state was indirectly characterized in terms of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase that related to shear stress and vasodilation, respectively. The levels of inflammation-related factors and apoptosis-related proteins were used to evaluate the reperfusion injury in lungs. The results showed that PEGylated human serum albumin could improve the level of mean arterial pressure and blood gas variables more effectively at the end of resuscitation. poly(ethylene glycol) modification was able to increase the viscosity of human serum albumin to the level of effectively enhancing the expression of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase, which could promote microvascular perfusion. The hyperosmotic resuscitative agents including both 25% human serum albumin and PEGylated human serum albumins could greatly attenuate lung injury. No significant therapeutic advantages but some disadvantages were found for Y shaped poly(ethylene glycol) modification over linear poly(ethylene glycol) modification, such as causing the decrease of erythrocyte deformability. Linear high molecular weight site-specific PEGylated human serum albumin is recommended to be used as a hyperosmotic resuscitative agent.

Does vitamin E-blended polyethylene reduce wear in primary total hip arthroplasty: a blinded randomised clinical trial.

PubMed

Scemama, Caroline; Anract, Philippe; Dumaine, Valérie; Babinet, Antoine; Courpied, Jean Pierre; Hamadouche, Moussa

2017-06-01

Some data indicate that first-generation highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) can oxidise in vivo and is associated with reduced mechanical properties. To overcome these limitations, a natural anti-oxidant vitamin E has been added to HXLPE to preserve the mechanical properties and decrease oxidative degradation whilst conserving high wear resistance. We hypothesised that after a minimal three years of follow-up the use of vitamin E-blended HXLPE would result in lower radiographic wear when compared with ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). One hundred patients were randomised to receive hybrid total hip arthroplasty (THA) using a monoblock cementless acetabular component made either of UHMWPE or vitamin E-blended HXLPE. All other parameters were identical in both groups. Complete follow-up was available for 74 of these patients. Femoral head penetration was measured using a validated computer-assisted method. The median creep measured 0.111 mm (range, -0.576 - +0.444 mm) in the vitamin E-blended group versus 0.170 mm (range, -0.861 - +0.884 mm) in the UHMWPE group (difference of medians, 0.059; p = 0.046). The median steady state penetration rate was -0.008 mm/year (range, -0.88 - +0.64 mm/year) in the vitamin E-blended group versus 0.133 mm/year (range, -0.84 - +0.85 mm/year) in the UHMWPE group (difference of medians 0.141, p = 0.043). This study demonstrated that femoral head penetration was lower when using vitamin E-blended HXLPE when compared with UHMWPE, with a steady-state penetration rate far below the osteolysis threshold. Longer-term follow-up is needed to warrant whether wear reduction will generate less occurrence of osteolysis and aseptic loosening.

Time series changes in radiocaesium distribution in tea plants (Camellia sinensis (L.)) after the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident.

PubMed

Hirono, Yuhei; Nonaka, Kunihiko

2016-02-01

Radiocaesium ((134)Cs and (137)Cs) release following the accident at the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant, belonging to the Tokyo Electric Power Company caused severe contamination of new tea plant (Camellia sinensis (L.)) shoots by radiocaesium in many prefectures in eastern Japan. Because tea plants are perennial crops, there is the fear that the contamination might last for a long time. The objectives of this study were to reveal time series changes in the distribution of radiocaesium in tea plants after radioactive fallout and to evaluate the effect of pruning on reduction of radiocaesium concentrations in new shoots growing next year. The experimental tea field was located in Shizuoka, Japan, approximately 400 km away from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant in a southwest direction. Time series changes in radiocaesium concentrations in unrefined tea, a tea product primarily produced for making Japanese green tea, from May 2011 to June 2013 and distribution of radiocaesium in tea plants from May 2011 to May 2012 were monitored. The radiocaesium concentrations in unrefined tea exponentially decreased; the effective half-lives for (134)Cs and (137)Cs were 0.30 and 0.36 y during the first 2 y after the accident, respectively. With time, the highest concentrations of (137)Cs moved from the upper to the lower parts of plants. Medium pruning 2-3 months after the accident reduced the concentration of (137)Cs in new shoots harvested in the first crop season of the following year by 56% compared with unpruned tea plants; thus, pruning is an effective measure for reducing radiocaesium concentration in tea. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Unrefined humic substances as a potential low-cost amendment for the management of acidic groundwater contamination.

PubMed

Gonzalez-Raymat, Hansell; Anagnostopoulos, Vasileios; Denham, Miles; Cai, Yong; Katsenovich, Yelena P

2018-04-15

The present study explores a novel application of Huma-K, a commercially available, unrefined humic substance, as a promising low-cost source of organic matter for in situ remediation of contaminated acidic groundwater plumes. This can be achieved by creating a humic-rich coating on the surface of minerals which can enhance the sorption of contaminants from groundwater. Huma-K was characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared analysis, and potentiometric titrations. Batch experiments were performed to investigate the sorption-desorption behavior of Huma-K and to evaluate what conditions (pH, contact time, and initial Huma-K concentration) affect these processes upon injection into aquifer sediments. As evidenced by potentiometric titrations, Huma-K possesses functional groups that have an acidic nature, with pK values in the range of 4-6 (carboxylic) and 9-10 (phenolic). Sorption, homogeneous precipitation, and surface-induced precipitation seem to be favored in the presence of sediment at pH 4, where there is less deprotonation of acidic functional groups. As the pH is increased, functional groups become negatively charged, leading to electrostatic repulsion and dissolution of Huma-K from sediment. Kinetic experiments indicate that Huma-K sorption is a slow-rate process, most likely governed by film diffusion. The enhanced sorption of Huma-K in acidic conditions suggests that it may be used to create a subsurface treatment zone in acidic aquifers for the sequestration of contaminants such as uranium. The treatment zone will persist as long as the pH does not increase sufficiently to cause soil-bound Huma-K to be released, remobilizing aqueous contaminants. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Functionalized graphene oxide for clinical glucose biosensing in urine and serum samples

PubMed Central

Veerapandian, Murugan; Seo, Yeong-Tai; Shin, Hyunkyung; Yun, Kyusik; Lee, Min-Ho

2012-01-01

A novel clinical glucose biosensor fabricated using functionalized metalloid-polymer (silver-silica coated with polyethylene glycol) hybrid nanoparticles on the surface of a graphene oxide nanosheet is reported. The cyclic voltammetric response of glucose oxidase modification on the surface of a functionalized graphene oxide electrode showed a surface-confined reaction and an effective redox potential near zero volts, with a wide linearity of 0.1–20 mM and a sensitivity of 7.66 μA mM−1 cm−2. The functionalized graphene oxide electrode showed a better electrocatalytic response toward oxidation of H2O2 and reduction of oxygen. The practical applicability of the functionalized graphene oxide electrode was demonstrated by measuring the peak current against multiple urine and serum samples from diabetic patients. This new hybrid nanoarchitecture combining a three-dimensional metalloid-polymer hybrid and two-dimensional graphene oxide provided a thin solid laminate on the electrode surface. The easy fabrication process and retention of bioactive immobilized enzymes on the functionalized graphene oxide electrode could potentially be extended to detection of other biomolecules, and have broad applications in electrochemical biosensing. PMID:23269871

Functionalized graphene oxide for clinical glucose biosensing in urine and serum samples.

PubMed

Veerapandian, Murugan; Seo, Yeong-Tai; Shin, Hyunkyung; Yun, Kyusik; Lee, Min-Ho

2012-01-01

A novel clinical glucose biosensor fabricated using functionalized metalloid-polymer (silver-silica coated with polyethylene glycol) hybrid nanoparticles on the surface of a graphene oxide nanosheet is reported. The cyclic voltammetric response of glucose oxidase modification on the surface of a functionalized graphene oxide electrode showed a surface-confined reaction and an effective redox potential near zero volts, with a wide linearity of 0.1-20 mM and a sensitivity of 7.66 μA mM(-1) cm(-2). The functionalized graphene oxide electrode showed a better electrocatalytic response toward oxidation of H(2)O(2) and reduction of oxygen. The practical applicability of the functionalized graphene oxide electrode was demonstrated by measuring the peak current against multiple urine and serum samples from diabetic patients. This new hybrid nanoarchitecture combining a three-dimensional metalloid-polymer hybrid and two-dimensional graphene oxide provided a thin solid laminate on the electrode surface. The easy fabrication process and retention of bioactive immobilized enzymes on the functionalized graphene oxide electrode could potentially be extended to detection of other biomolecules, and have broad applications in electrochemical biosensing.

D, L-Sulforaphane Loaded Fe3O4@ Gold Core Shell Nanoparticles: A Potential Sulforaphane Delivery System.

PubMed

Kheiri Manjili, Hamidreza; Ma'mani, Leila; Tavaddod, Sharareh; Mashhadikhan, Maedeh; Shafiee, Abbas; Naderi-Manesh, Hossein

2016-01-01

A novel design of gold-coated iron oxide nanoparticles was fabricated as a potential delivery system to improve the efficiency and stability of d, l-sulforaphane as an anticancer drug. To this purpose, the surface of gold-coated iron oxide nanoparticles was modified for sulforaphane delivery via furnishing its surface with thiolated polyethylene glycol-folic acid and thiolated polyethylene glycol-FITC. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by different techniques such as FTIR, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The average diameters of the synthesized nanoparticles before and after sulforaphane loading were obtained ∼ 33 nm and ∼ 38 nm, respectively, when ∼ 2.8 mmol/g of sulforaphane was loaded. The result of cell viability assay which was confirmed by apoptosis assay on the human breast cancer cells (MCF-7 line) as a model of in vitro-cancerous cells, proved that the bare nanoparticles showed little inherent cytotoxicity, whereas the sulforaphane-loaded nanoparticles were cytotoxic. The expression rate of the anti-apoptotic genes (bcl-2 and bcl-xL), and the pro-apoptotic genes (bax and bak) were quantified, and it was found that the expression rate of bcl-2 and bcl-xL genes significantly were decreased when MCF-7 cells were incubated by sulforaphane-loaded nanoparticles. The sulforaphane-loaded into the designed gold-coated iron oxide nanoparticles, acceptably induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells.

Layering, melting, and recrystallization of a close-packed micellar crystal under steady and large-amplitude oscillatory shear flows

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

López-Barrón, Carlos R., E-mail: carlos.r.lopez-barron@exxonmobil.com; Wagner, Norman J.; Porcar, Lionel

2015-05-15

The rheology and three-dimensional microstructure of a concentrated viscoelastic solution of the triblock copolymer poly(ethylene oxide){sub 106}-poly(propylene oxide){sub 68}-poly(ethylene oxide){sub 106} (Pluronic F127) in the protic ionic liquid ethylammonium nitrate are measured by small angle neutron scattering (SANS) under flow in three orthogonal planes. This solution's shear-thinning viscosity is due to the formation of two-dimensional hexagonal close-packed (HCP) sliding layer structure. Shear-melting of the crystalline structure is observed without disruption of the self-assembled micelles, resulting in a change in flow properties. Spatially resolved measurements in the 1–2 plane reveal that both shear-melting and sliding are not uniform across the Couettemore » gap. Melting and recrystallization of the HCP layers occur cyclically during a single large amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS) cycle, in agreement with the “stick-slip” flow mechanism proposed by Hamley et al. [Phys. Rev. E 58, 7620–7628 (1998)]. Analysis of 3D “structural” Lissajous curves show that the cyclic melting and sliding are direct functions of the strain rate amplitude and show perfect correlation with the cyclic stress response during LAOS. Both viscosity and structural order obey the Delaware–Rutgers rule. Combining rheology with in situ spatiotemporally resolved SANS is demonstrated to elucidate the structural origins of the nonlinear rheology of complex fluids.« less

Surface pre-treatment for barrier coatings on polyethylene terephthalate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bahre, H.; Bahroun, K.; Behm, H.; Steves, S.; Awakowicz, P.; Böke, M.; Hopmann, Ch; Winter, J.

2013-02-01

Polymers have favourable properties such as light weight, flexibility and transparency. Consequently, this makes them suitable for food packaging, organic light-emitting diodes and flexible solar cells. Nonetheless, raw plastics do not possess sufficient barrier functionality against oxygen and water vapour, which is of paramount importance for most applications. A widespread solution is to deposit thin silicon oxide layers using plasma processes. However, silicon oxide layers do not always fulfil the requirements concerning adhesion and barrier performance when deposited on films. Thus, plasma pre-treatment is often necessary. To analyse the influence of a plasma-based pre-treatment on barrier performance, different plasma pre-treatments on three reactor setups were applied to a very smooth polyethylene terephthalate film before depositing a silicon oxide barrier layer. In this paper, the influence of oxygen and argon plasma pre-treatments towards the barrier performance is discussed examining the chemical and topological change of the film. It was observed that a short one-to-ten-second plasma treatment can reduce the oxygen transmission rate by a factor of five. The surface chemistry and the surface topography change significantly for these short treatment times, leading to an increased surface energy. The surface roughness rises slowly due to the development of small spots in the nanometre range. For very long treatment times, surface roughness of the order of the barrier layer's thickness results in a complete loss of barrier properties. During plasma pre-treatment, the trade-off between surface activation and roughening of the surface has to be carefully considered.

The influence of poly(ethylene oxide) and illumination on the copper electrodeposition process onto n-Si(100).

PubMed

Muñoz, Eduardo C; Schrebler, Ricardo S; Cury, Paula K; Suarez, Claudio A; Córdova, Ricardo A; Gómez, Carlos H; Marotti, Ricardo E; Dalchiele, Enrique A

2006-10-26

In this study, we examined the influence of illumination and the presence of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) as an additive for the copper electrodeposition process onto n-Si(100). The study was carried out by means of cyclic voltammetry (CV) and the potential steps method, from which the corresponding nucleation and growth mechanism (NGM) were determined. Likewise, a morphologic analysis of the deposits obtained at different potential values by means of atomic force microscopy (AFM) was carried out. In a first stage, Mott-Schottky measurements so as to characterize the energetics of the semiconductor/electrolyte interface were made. Also, parallel capacity measurements were carried out in order to determine the surface state density of the substrate. It was found that when PEO concentration is increased, the number of these surface states decreases. The CV results indicated that the presence of PEO inhibits the photoelectrochemical reaction of oxide formation on the surface of the semiconductor. This allows a decrease in the overpotential associated with the electrodeposition process. The analysis of the j/t transients shows that the NGM corresponds to progressive three-dimensional (3D) diffusional controlled (PN3D(Diff)), which was confirmed by the AFM technique. Neither illumination nor the presence of PEO changes the mechanisms. Their influence is in that they diminish the size of the nuclei and the speed with which these are formed, which produces a more homogeneous electrodeposit.

Examination of the suitability of alpha-tocopherol as a stabilizer for ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene used for articulating surfaces in joint endoprostheses.

PubMed

Wolf, C; Krivec, T; Blassnig, J; Lederer, K; Schneider, W

2002-02-01

The lifetime of articulating surfaces in joint endoprostheses made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE), especially of UHMW-PE-cups of hip-endoprostheses, is usually limited to 10-15 years due to material failure as a result of oxidation of the UHMW-PE in vivo. In this study the suitability of the natural antioxidant alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) as a stabilizer for UHMW-PE in these applications was investigated. Specimens with 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.8% w/w alpha-tocopherol as well as unstabilized samples were sintered and sterilized with gamma-rays at 25 kGy in accordance with standard processing methods of cups for total hip-endoprostheses. These specimens were aged in pure oxygen at 70 degrees C and 5 bar as well as in aqueous H2O2 at 50 degrees C. The degree of oxidation was observed by means of FTIR-spectroscopy, DSC analysis and mechanical testing. The FTIR-measurements showed that alpha-tocopherol can prolong the lifetime of UHMW-PE in an oxidative environment by a factor of more than 2.5. In the mechanical tests no embrittlement could be observed with the stabilized samples. A comparison with the standard antioxidant system Irganox 1010/Irgafos 168 (Ciba-Geigy, Switzerland) was carried out and revealed that alpha-tocopherol can even exceed the stabilization effect of this widely-used antioxidant system.

Field Effect Transistor Behavior in Electrospun Polyaniline/Polyethylene Oxide Demonstrated

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mueller, Carl H.; Theofylaktos, Onoufrios; Robinson, Daryl C.; Miranda, Felix A.

2004-01-01

Novel transistors and logic devices based on nanotechnology concepts are under intense development. The potential for ultra-low-power circuitry makes nanotechnology attractive for applications such as digital electronics and sensors. For NASA applications, nanotechnology offers tremendous opportunities for increased onboard data processing, and thus autonomous decisionmaking ability, and novel sensors that detect and respond to environmental stimuli with little oversight requirements. Polyaniline/polyethylene oxide (PANi/PEO) nanofibers are of interest because they have electrical conductivities that can be changed from insulating to metallic by varying the doping levels and conformations of the polymer chain. At the NASA Glenn Research Center, we have observed field effect transistor (FET) behavior in electrospun PANi/PEO nanofibers doped with camphorsulfonic acid. The nanofibers were deposited onto Au electrodes, which had been prepatterned onto oxidized silicon substrates. The preceding scanning electron image shows the device used in the transistor measurements. Saturation channel currents are observed at surprisingly low source/drain voltages (see the following graph). The hole mobility in the depletion regime is 1.4x10(exp -4)sq cm/V sec, whereas the one-dimensional charge density (at zero gate bias) is calculated to be approximately 1 hole per 50 two-ring repeat units of polyaniline, consistent with the rather high channel conductivity (approx.10(exp -3) S/cm). Reducing or eliminating the PEO content in the fiber is expected to enhance device parameters. Electrospinning is thus proposed as a simple method of fabricating one-dimensional polymer FET's.

In-situ preparation of poly(ethylene oxide)/Li3PS4 hybrid polymer electrolyte with good nanofiller distribution for rechargeable solid-state lithium batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Shaojie; Wang, Junye; Zhang, Zhihua; Wu, Linbin; Yao, Lili; Wei, Zhenyao; Deng, Yonghong; Xie, Dongjiu; Yao, Xiayin; Xu, Xiaoxiong

2018-05-01

Nano-sized fillers in a polymer matrix with good distribution can play a positive role in improving polymer electrolytes in the aspects of ionic conductivity, mechanical property and electrochemical performance of Li-ion cells. Herein, polyethylene oxide (PEO)/Li3PS4 hybrid polymer electrolyte is prepared via a new in-situ approach. The ionic conductivities of the novel hybrid electrolytes with variable proportions are measured, and the optimal electrolyte of PEO-2%vol Li3PS4 presents a considerable ionic conductivity of 8.01 × 10-4 S cm-1 at 60 °C and an electrochemical window up to 5.1 V. The tests of DSC and EDXS reveal that the Li3PS4 nanoparticles with better distribution, as active fillers scattering in the PEO, exhibit a positive effect on the transference of lithium ion and electrochemical interfacial stabilities. Finally, the assembled solid-state LiFePO4/Li battery presents a decent cycling performance (80.9% retention rate after 325 cycles at 60 °C) and excellent rate capacities with 153, 143, 139 and 127 mAh g-1 at the discharging rate of 0.1 C, 0.2 C, 0.5 C and 1 C at 60 °C. It is fully proved that it is an advanced strategy to preparing the new organic/inorganic hybrid electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries applications.

Molecular dynamics simulation study of solvent effects on conformation and dynamics of polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide chains in water and in common organic solvents.

PubMed

Hezaveh, Samira; Samanta, Susruta; Milano, Giuseppe; Roccatano, Danilo

2012-03-28

In this paper, the conformation and dynamics properties of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polypropylene oxide (PPO) polymer chains at 298 K have been studied in the melt and at infinite dilution condition in water, methanol, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, and n-heptane using molecular dynamics simulations. The calculated density of PEO melt with chain lengths of n = 2, 3, 4, 5 and, for PPO, n = 7 are in good agreement with the available experimental data. The conformational properties of PEO and PPO show an increasing gauche preference for the O-C-C-O dihedral in the following order water>methanol>chloroform>carbon tetrachloride = n-heptane. On the contrary, the preference for trans conformation has a maximum in carbon tetrachloride and n-heptane followed in the order by chloroform, methanol, and water. The PEO conformational preferences are in qualitative agreement with results of NMR studies. PEO chains formed different types of hydrogen bonds with polar solvent molecules. In particular, the occurrence of bifurcated hydrogen bonding in chloroform was also observed. Radii of gyration of PEO chains of length larger than n = 9 monomers showed a good agreement with light scattering data in water and in methanol. For the shorter chains the observed deviations are probably due to the enhanced hydrophobic effects caused by the terminal methyl groups. For PEO the fitting of end-to-end distance distributions with the semi-flexible chain model at 298 K provided persistence lengths of 0.375 and 0.387 nm in water and methanol, respectively. Finally, the radius of gyration of Pluronic P85 turned out to be 2.25 ± 0.4 nm at 293 K in water in agreement with experimental data.

Molecular dynamics simulation study of solvent effects on conformation and dynamics of polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide chains in water and in common organic solvents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hezaveh, Samira; Samanta, Susruta; Milano, Giuseppe; Roccatano, Danilo

2012-03-01

In this paper, the conformation and dynamics properties of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polypropylene oxide (PPO) polymer chains at 298 K have been studied in the melt and at infinite dilution condition in water, methanol, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, and n-heptane using molecular dynamics simulations. The calculated density of PEO melt with chain lengths of n = 2, 3, 4, 5 and, for PPO, n = 7 are in good agreement with the available experimental data. The conformational properties of PEO and PPO show an increasing gauche preference for the O-C-C-O dihedral in the following order water>methanol>chloroform>carbon tetrachloride = n-heptane. On the contrary, the preference for trans conformation has a maximum in carbon tetrachloride and n-heptane followed in the order by chloroform, methanol, and water. The PEO conformational preferences are in qualitative agreement with results of NMR studies. PEO chains formed different types of hydrogen bonds with polar solvent molecules. In particular, the occurrence of bifurcated hydrogen bonding in chloroform was also observed. Radii of gyration of PEO chains of length larger than n = 9 monomers showed a good agreement with light scattering data in water and in methanol. For the shorter chains the observed deviations are probably due to the enhanced hydrophobic effects caused by the terminal methyl groups. For PEO the fitting of end-to-end distance distributions with the semi-flexible chain model at 298 K provided persistence lengths of 0.375 and 0.387 nm in water and methanol, respectively. Finally, the radius of gyration of Pluronic P85 turned out to be 2.25 ± 0.4 nm at 293 K in water in agreement with experimental data.

Durability of a fin-tube latent heat storage using high density polyethylene as PCM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zauner, Christoph; Hengstberger, Florian; Etzel, Mark; Lager, Daniel; Hofmann, Rene; Walter, Heimo

2017-10-01

Polymers have rarely been used as storage materials in latent heat storages up to now. Thus, we systematically screened all polymers available on a large-scale, selected promising ones based on their theoretical properties and experimentally tested more than 50 candidates. We found that polyethylene, polyoxymethylene and polyamides are promising even as recycled material. Especially high density polyethylene (HDPE) turned out to be suitable as was shown by detailed thermophysical characterization including more than 1000 heating and cooling cycles for INEOS Rigidex HD6070EA. We built a storage with 170 kg HDPE and a total mass of 600 kg based on a fin-tube heat exchanger and characterized its energy capacity, power characteristics and temperature profiles using a thermal oil test rig. In total we performed 30 melting and crystallization cycles where the whole storage was above 100 °C for more than 140 hours. After usage we examined the interior of the storage by cutting it into various pieces. A thin layer of degradation was observed on the surfaces of the PCM which is most likely related to thermo-oxidative degeneration of HDPE. However, the bulk of the PCM is still intact as well as the heat exchanger itself.

Synthetic polymers and biomembranes. How do they interact? Atomistic molecular dynamics simulation study of PEO in contact with a DMPC lipid bilayer.

PubMed

Pal, Sandeep; Milano, Giuseppe; Roccatano, Danilo

2006-12-28

The understanding of interactions of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) or poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) with biological interfaces has important technological application in industry and in medicine. In this paper, structural and dynamical properties of PEO at the dimyristoylphospatidylcholine (DMPC) bilayer/water interface have been investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) and steered molecular dynamics (SMD) simulations. The structural properties of a PEO chain in bulk water, at the water/vacuum interface, and in the presence of the membrane were compared with available experimental data. The presence of a barrier for the PEO penetration into the DMPC bilayer has been found. A qualitative estimation of the barrier provided a value equal to approximately 19 kJ/mol, that is, 7 times the value of kT at 310 K.

Functional electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries

DOEpatents

Zhang, Lu; Zhang, Zhengcheng; Amine, Khalil

2015-04-14

Functional electrolyte solvents include compounds having at least one aromatic ring with 2, 3, 4 or 5 substituents, at least one of which is a substituted or unsubstituted methoxy group, at least one of which is a tert-butyl group and at least one of which is a substituted or unsubstituted polyether or poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) group bonded through oxygen to the aromatic ring, are provided.

Water is a poor solvent for densely grafted poly(ethylene oxide) chains: a conclusion drawn from a self-consistent field theory-based analysis of neutron reflectivity and surface pressure-area isotherm data.

PubMed

Lee, Hoyoung; Kim, Dae Hwan; Witte, Kevin N; Ohn, Kimberly; Choi, Je; Akgun, Bulent; Satija, Sushil; Won, You-Yeon

2012-06-21

By use of a combined experimental and theoretical approach, a model poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) brush system, prepared by spreading a poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PEO-PnBA) amphiphilic diblock copolymer onto an air-water interface, was investigated. The polymer segment density profiles of the PEO brush in the direction normal to the air-water interface under various grafting density conditions were determined by using the neutron reflectivity (NR) measurement technique. To achieve a theoretically sound analysis of the reflectivity data, we used a data analysis method that utilizes the self-consistent field (SCF) theoretical modeling as a tool for predicting expected reflectivity results for comparison with the experimental data. Using this data analysis technique, we discovered that the effective Flory-Huggins interaction parameter of the PEO brush chains is significantly greater than that corresponding to the θ condition in Flory-Huggins solutions (i.e., χ(PEO-water)(brush chains)/χ(PEO-water)(θ condition) ≈ 1.2), suggesting that contrary to what is more commonly observed for PEO in normal situations (χ(PEO-water)(free chains)/χ(PEO-water)(θ condition) ≈ 0.92), the PEO chains are actually not "hydrophilic" when they exist as polymer brush chains, because of the many body interactions that are forced to be effective in the brush situation. This result is further supported by the fact that the surface pressures of the PEO brush calculated on the basis of the measured χ(PEO-water) value are in close agreement with the experimental surface pressure-area isotherm data. The SCF theoretical analysis of the surface pressure behavior of the PEO brush also suggests that even though the grafted PEO chains experience a poor solvent environment, the PEO brush layer exhibits positive surface pressures, because the hydrophobicity of the PEO brush chains (which favors compression) is insufficient to overcome the opposing effect of the chain conformational entropy (which resists compression).

Molecular dynamics simulations of polyamidoamine dendrimers and their complexes with linear poly(ethylene oxide) at different pH conditions: static properties and hydrogen bonding.

PubMed

Tanis, I; Karatasos, K

2009-11-21

Models consisting of an amine-terminated poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimer with and without the presence of a linear poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) chain were studied in aqueous solutions by means of fully atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. Dendrimers of two generations, 3rd and 4th and at different pH conditions were examined, in order to address issues associated with characteristics pertinent to the shape of the dendrimers in the presence or absence of PEO as well as to the volume fraction of the penetrating solvent molecules and counterions as compared to recent experimental studies. In addition, hydrogen-bonding characteristics such as the intensity and the longevity of intra- and intermolecular hydrogen-bonded pairs are examined for the first time in these systems. It was found that the volume fraction of the penetrating solvent molecules increased upon decrease of pH, but no dependence on the size of the molecules was observed. The density of the solvent within the dendritic interior did not exceed that of the bulk, while the corresponding number of counterions entering the dendrimer boundaries exhibited a marked increase between the 3rd and the 4th generation of the dendrimers. Intramolecular hydrogen bonding was favored at high pH conditions, while intermolecular hydrogen bonding between PAMAM and the solvent or the PEO was significantly enhanced upon protonation of the dendrimer's amines. The presence of PEO imparted appreciable changes in the dendrimer's shape particularly in the physiological pH conditions. In addition, it incurred a decrease in intramolecular hydrogen bonding and acted antagonistically to the formation of water/dendrimer hydrogen bonds. The higher degree of hydrogen bonding between PAMAM and PEO was observed at low pH levels, indicating that under these conditions the formed complexes are expected to be more stable. The findings of the present study were found to be in good agreement with the relevant experimental findings where available, thus assessing the role of several structural and conformational details in the manifested behavior and providing further insight of the effects of non-covalent complexation of PAMAM dendrimers with linear poly(ethylene oxide).

Adsorption of Poly(ethylene oxide)-Poly(lactide) Copolymers. Effects of Composition and Degradation.

PubMed

Muller, Dries; Carlsson, Fredrik; Malmsten, Martin

2001-04-01

The effect of chemical degradation of two diblock copolymers of poly(ethylene oxide) (E) and poly(lactide) (L), E(39)L(5) and E(39)L(20), on their adsorption at silica and methylated silica was investigated with in situ ellipsometry. Steric stablization of polystyrene dispersions was investigated in relation to degradation. Hydrolysis of the poly(lactide) block of the copolymers was followed at different temperatures and pH by using HPLC to measure the occurrence of lactic acid in solution. The block copolymers were quite stable in pH-unadjusted solution at low temperature, whereas degradation was facilitated by increasing temperature or lowering of the pH. Lower degradation rates of E(39)L(20) where observed at low temperature in comparison with those of E(39)L(5), whereas the degradation rates of the copolymers were quantitatively similar at high temperature. The adsorption of the copolymers at methylated silica substrates decreased with increasing degree of degradation due to the reduction in the ability of hydrophobic block to anchor the copolymer layer at the surface. At silica the adsorption initially increased with increasing degradation, particularly for E(39)L(20) due to deposition of aggregates onto the surface. After extensive degradation the adsorption of the copolymers at both silica and methylated silica resembled that of the corresponding poly(ethylene oxide) homopolymer. Overall, it was found that the eventual reduction in adsorption occurred at a lower degree of degradation for E(39)L(5) than for E(39)L(20). Mean-field calculations showed a reduced anchoring for the block copolymers with decreasing poly(lactide) block length at hydrophobic surfaces. In accordance with this finding, it was observed that polystyrene dispersions were stabilized by E(39)L(20) or E(39)L(5) in a way that depended on both the lactide block length and the degree of degradation. Upon degradation of the hydrophobic block, stabilization of the polystyrene dispersions was maintained initially, but eventually degradation resulted in destabilization. The average residual copolymer concentration required for stabilization of the polystyrene dispersions was much higher than the corresponding concentration of intact copolymer required for stabilization. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

Severe impingement of lumbar disc replacements increases the functional biological activity of polyethylene wear debris.

PubMed

Baxter, Ryan M; Macdonald, Daniel W; Kurtz, Steven M; Steinbeck, Marla J

2013-06-05

Wear, oxidation, and particularly rim impingement damage of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene total disc replacement components have been observed following surgical revision. However, neither in vitro testing nor retrieval-based evidence has shown the effect(s) of impingement on the characteristics of polyethylene wear debris. Thus, we sought to determine (1) differences in polyethylene particle size, shape, number, or biological activity that correspond to mild or severe rim impingement and (2) in an analysis of all total disc replacements, regardless of impingement classification, whether there are correlations between the extent of regional damage and the characteristics of polyethylene wear debris. The extent of dome and rim damage was characterized for eleven retrieved polyethylene cores obtained at revision surgery after an average duration of implantation of 9.7 years (range, 4.6 to 16.1 years). Polyethylene wear debris was isolated from periprosthetic tissues with use of nitric acid and was imaged with use of environmental scanning electron microscopy. Subsequently, particle size, shape, number, biological activity, and chronic inflammation scores were determined. Grouping of particles by size ranges that represented high biological relevance (<0.1 to 1-μm particles), intermediate biological relevance (1 to 10-μm particles), and low biological relevance (>10-μm particles) revealed an increased volume fraction of particles in the <0.1 to 1-μm and 1 to 10-μm size ranges in the mild-impingement cohort as compared with the severe-impingement cohort. The increased volume fractions resulted in a higher specific biological activity per unit particle volume in the mild-impingement cohort than in the severe-impingement cohort. However, functional biological activity, which is normalized by particle volume (mm3/g of tissue), was significantly higher in the severe-impingement cohort. This increase was due to a larger volume of particles in all three size ranges. In both cohorts, the functional biological activity correlated with the chronic inflammatory response, and the extent of rim penetration positively correlated with increasing particle size, number, and functional biological activity. The results of this study suggest that severe rim impingement increases the production of biologically relevant particles from motion-preserving lumbar total disc replacement components. Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Severe Impingement of Lumbar Disc Replacements Increases the Functional Biological Activity of Polyethylene Wear Debris

PubMed Central

Baxter, Ryan M.; MacDonald, Daniel W.; Kurtz, Steven M.; Steinbeck, Marla J.

2013-01-01

Background: Wear, oxidation, and particularly rim impingement damage of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene total disc replacement components have been observed following surgical revision. However, neither in vitro testing nor retrieval-based evidence has shown the effect(s) of impingement on the characteristics of polyethylene wear debris. Thus, we sought to determine (1) differences in polyethylene particle size, shape, number, or biological activity that correspond to mild or severe rim impingement and (2) in an analysis of all total disc replacements, regardless of impingement classification, whether there are correlations between the extent of regional damage and the characteristics of polyethylene wear debris. Methods: The extent of dome and rim damage was characterized for eleven retrieved polyethylene cores obtained at revision surgery after an average duration of implantation of 9.7 years (range, 4.6 to 16.1 years). Polyethylene wear debris was isolated from periprosthetic tissues with use of nitric acid and was imaged with use of environmental scanning electron microscopy. Subsequently, particle size, shape, number, biological activity, and chronic inflammation scores were determined. Results: Grouping of particles by size ranges that represented high biological relevance (<0.1 to 1-μm particles), intermediate biological relevance (1 to 10-μm particles), and low biological relevance (>10-μm particles) revealed an increased volume fraction of particles in the <0.1 to 1-μm and 1 to 10-μm size ranges in the mild-impingement cohort as compared with the severe-impingement cohort. The increased volume fractions resulted in a higher specific biological activity per unit particle volume in the mild-impingement cohort than in the severe-impingement cohort. However, functional biological activity, which is normalized by particle volume (mm3/g of tissue), was significantly higher in the severe-impingement cohort. This increase was due to a larger volume of particles in all three size ranges. In both cohorts, the functional biological activity correlated with the chronic inflammatory response, and the extent of rim penetration positively correlated with increasing particle size, number, and functional biological activity. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that severe rim impingement increases the production of biologically relevant particles from motion-preserving lumbar total disc replacement components. Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. PMID:23780545

Fueling the vegetarian (vegan) athlete.

PubMed

Fuhrman, Joel; Ferreri, Deana M

2010-01-01

Vegetarian diets are associated with several health benefits, but whether a vegetarian or vegan diet is beneficial for athletic performance has not yet been defined. Based on the evidence in the literature that diets high in unrefined plant foods are associated with beneficial effects on overall health, lifespan, immune function, and cardiovascular health, such diets likely would promote improved athletic performance as well. In this article, we review the state of the literature on vegetarian diets and athletic performance, discuss prevention of potential micronutrient deficiencies that may occur in the vegan athlete, and provide strategies on meeting the enhanced caloric and protein needs of an athlete with a plant-based diet.

A Novel Method to Assess Wear Rates of Retrieved Tibial Inserts Following in-vivo Use

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paniogue, Tanille J.

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) on cobalt chrome is the bearing couple of choice for total knee arthroplasty. The number of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty has been steadily growing and is projected to continue increasing rapidly in the near future. Many of these patients are younger and more active and therefore need a longer lasting device. However, many of these devices fail prematurely and often the primary reason for failure and ultimately revision is due to wear related issues. Therefore, examining how wear rates of the UHMWPE tibial insert change during in-vivo use can help elucidate the mechanisms of accelerated wear and hopefully aid in finding solutions to combat wear related failures. Different crosslinking treatments have been employed by manufacturers to improve wear resistance of the polyethylene. While this has been shown to be an effective way to reduce wear, crosslinking has led to other issues such as oxidative instability and a decline in mechanical properties. The purpose of this body of work is to examine how changes in oxidation, after in-vivo use, affect wear resistance. A novel testing method was developed to test the native articular surface from retrieved tibial inserts in a laboratory Pin-on-Disk (POD) simulator. The method was validated using short-duration implant articular surfaces and non-articular control pins. In the absence of high surface oxidation or severe surface damage, the articular surface pins had comparable steady state wear rates to their bulk counterparts. Tests of devices with longer in-vivo service show chemical changes consistent with a free-radical mediated oxidation mechanism. Tribological assessment of the articular surfaces shows increasing wear rates as a function of oxidation. While this relationship has been hypothesized in the literature, these experiments represent the first physical demonstration of the phenomenon. The wear mechanism is further explored through infrared spectroscopy, assessment of the wear scar, and documentation of evolution of the contact surfaces in the articulation.

Macrophage Response to UHMWPE Submitted to Accelerated Ageing in Hydrogen Peroxide

PubMed Central

Rocha, Magda F.G.; Mansur, Alexandra A.P.; Martins, Camila P.S.; Barbosa-Stancioli, Edel F.; Mansur, Herman S.

2010-01-01

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been the most commonly used bearing material in total joint arthroplasty. Wear and oxidation fatigue resistance of UHMWPE are regarded as two important properties to extend the longevity of knee prostheses. The present study investigated the accelerated ageing of UHMWPE in hydrogen peroxide highly oxidative chemical environment. The sliced samples of UHMWPE were oxidized in a hydrogen peroxide solution for 120 days with their total level of oxidation (Iox) characterized by Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The potential inflammatory response, cell viability and biocompatibility of such oxidized UHMWPE systems were assessed by a novel biological in vitro assay based on the secretion of nitric oxide (NO) by activated murine macrophages with gamma interferon (IFN-γ) cytokine and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Furthermore, macrophage morphologies in contact with UHMWPE oxidized surfaces were analyzed by cell spreading-adhesion procedure using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results have given significant evidence that the longer the period of accelerated aging of UHMWPE the higher was the macrophage inflammatory equivalent response based on NO secretion analysis. PMID:20721321

X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopic Characterization of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radu, T.; Iacovita, C.; Benea, D.; Turcu, R.

2017-05-01

We report X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results on iron oxide magnetic nanoparticle (Fe3O4) synthesized using solvothermal reduction in the presence of polyethylene glycol. The magnetite obtained was employed as precursor for the synthesis of γ-Fe2O3 (by oxygen dissociation) which in turn was transformed into α-Fe2O3. We confirmed the magnetite, maghemite and hematite structure by Fourier Transformed Spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The analysis of the XPS core level and valence band (VB) photoemission spectra for all investigated samples is discussed in terms of the degree of iron oxidation. This is of fundamental importance to better understand the electronic structure of the obtained iron oxide nanoparticles in order to control and improve their quality for specific biomedical applications. Moreover, theoretical band structure calculations are performed for magnetite and the separate contributions of Fe in tetragonal and octahedral environment are shown.

Highly sensitive detection for proteins using graphene oxide-aptamer based sensors.

PubMed

Gao, Li; Li, Qin; Li, Raoqi; Yan, Lirong; Zhou, Yang; Chen, Keping; Shi, Haixia

2015-07-07

In recent years, the detection of proteins by using bare graphene oxide (GO) to quench the fluorescence of fluorescein-labeled aptamers has been reported. However, the proteins can be adsorbed on the surface of bare GO to prevent the sensitivity from further being improved. In order to solve this problem, polyethylene glycol (PEG)-protected GO was used to prevent the proteins using thrombin as an example from nonspecific binding. The detection limit was improved compared to bare GO under the optimized ratio of GO to PEG concentration. The results show that our method is a promising technique for the detection of proteins.

Graphene-wrapped sulfur particles as a rechargeable lithium-sulfur battery cathode material with high capacity and cycling stability.

PubMed

Wang, Hailiang; Yang, Yuan; Liang, Yongye; Robinson, Joshua Tucker; Li, Yanguang; Jackson, Ariel; Cui, Yi; Dai, Hongjie

2011-07-13

We report the synthesis of a graphene-sulfur composite material by wrapping poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) coated submicrometer sulfur particles with mildly oxidized graphene oxide sheets decorated by carbon black nanoparticles. The PEG and graphene coating layers are important to accommodating volume expansion of the coated sulfur particles during discharge, trapping soluble polysulfide intermediates, and rendering the sulfur particles electrically conducting. The resulting graphene-sulfur composite showed high and stable specific capacities up to ∼600 mAh/g over more than 100 cycles, representing a promising cathode material for rechargeable lithium batteries with high energy density.

Several factors influencing the fabrication of rigid foam-film solar concentrators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ubaidullaev, A. K.; Kagan, M. B.; Ataullaev, O. Kh.; Sobirov, O. Iu.; Rabbimov, R. T.

The strength of adhesion between the reflecting film base of an expanded-sheet concentrator and a fixative coating (epoxy resin or polyurethane foam) is studied. According to experiments on the separation of the reflecting surface of a metallized polyethylene terephthalate film from a rigid polymer coating, the stressed state of the inflated reflecting film base before the application of the coating is one cause of adhesion loss. Other important factors identified were the thermal expansion coefficients of the aluminum substrate and polymer coating, as well as the contact temperature. Increased adhesion was obtained with additions of 10-12 percent chromium oxide or 12-18 percent aluminum oxide.

Comparison of stabilization by Vitamin E and 2,6-di-tert-butylphenols during polyethylene radio-thermal-oxidation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richaud, Emmanuel

2014-10-01

This paper reports a compilation of data for PE+Vitamin E and 2,6-di-tert-butylphenols oxidation in radio-thermal ageing. Data unambiguously show that Vitamin E reacts with Prad and POOrad whereas 2,6-di-tert-butyl phenols only react with POOrad. Kinetic parameters of the stabilization reactions for both kinds of antioxidants were tentatively extracted from phenol depletion curves, and discussed regarding the structure of the stabilizer. They were also used for completing an existing kinetic model used for predicting the stabilization by antioxidants. This one permits to compare the efficiency of stabilizer with dose rate or sample thickness.

Modified release from lipid bilayer coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles using PEO–PPO–PEO triblock copolymers [Modified release from lipid bilayer coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles using PEO PPO PEO triblock copolymers

DOE PAGES

Rahman, Masoud; Yu, Erick; Forman, Evan; ...

2014-08-20

Triblock copolymers comprised of poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO, or trade name Pluronic) interact with lipid bilayers to increase their permeability. Here we demonstrate a novel application of Pluronic L61 and L64 as modification agents in tailoring the release rate of a molecular indicator species from 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC) bilayer-coated superparamagnetic Fe 3O 4/mesoporous silica coreshell nanoparticles. Lastly, we show there is a direct relationship between Pluronic concentration and the indicator molecule release, suggesting Pluronic may be useful for the controlled release of drugs from lipid bilayer-coated carriers.

Elongational viscosity of photo-oxidated LDPE

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rolón-Garrido, Víctor H., E-mail: victor.h.rolongarrido@tu-berlin.de, E-mail: manfred.wagner@tu-berlin.de; Wagner, Manfred H., E-mail: victor.h.rolongarrido@tu-berlin.de, E-mail: manfred.wagner@tu-berlin.de

2014-05-15

Sheets of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) were photo-oxidatively treated at room temperature, and subsequently characterized rheologically in the melt state by shear and uniaxial extensional experiments. For photo-oxidation, a xenon lamp was used to irradiate the samples for times between 1 day and 6 weeks. Linear-viscoelastic characterization was performed in a temperature range of 130 to 220°C to obtain the master curve at 170°C, the reference temperature at which the elongational viscosities were measured. Linear viscoelasticity is increasingly affected by increasing photo-oxidation due to crosslinking of LDPE, as corroborated by an increasing gel fraction as determined by a solvent extraction method.more » The elongational measurements reveal a strong enhancement of strain hardening until a saturation level is achieved. The elongational data are analyzed in the frame work of two constitutive equations, the rubber-like liquid and the molecular stress function models. Within the experimental window, timedeformation separability is confirmed for all samples, independent of the degree of photo-oxidation.« less

Photo-oxidation of LDPE: Effects on elongational viscosity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rolón-Garrido, Víctor H.; Wagner, Manfred H.

2013-04-01

Sheets of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) were photo-oxidatively treated at room temperature, and subsequently characterized rheologically in the melt state by shear and uniaxial extensional experiments. For photo-oxidation, a xenon lamp was used to irradiate the samples for times between 1 day and 6 weeks. Linear-viscoelastic characterization was performed in a temperature range of 130 to 220°C to obtain the master curve at 170°C, the reference temperature at which the elongational viscosities were measured. Linear viscoelasticity is increasingly affected by increasing photo-oxidation due to crosslinking of LDPE, as corroborated by an increasing gel fraction as determined by a solvent extraction method. The elongational measurements reveal a strong enhancement of strain hardening until a saturation level is achieved. The elongational data are analyzed in the frame work of two constitutive equations, the rubber-like liquid and the molecular stress function models. Within the experimental window, time-deformation separability is confirmed for all samples, independent of the degree of photo-oxidation.

Elongational viscosity of photo-oxidated LDPE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rolón-Garrido, Víctor H.; Wagner, Manfred H.

2014-05-01

Sheets of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) were photo-oxidatively treated at room temperature, and subsequently characterized rheologically in the melt state by shear and uniaxial extensional experiments. For photo-oxidation, a xenon lamp was used to irradiate the samples for times between 1 day and 6 weeks. Linear-viscoelastic characterization was performed in a temperature range of 130 to 220°C to obtain the master curve at 170°C, the reference temperature at which the elongational viscosities were measured. Linear viscoelasticity is increasingly affected by increasing photo-oxidation due to crosslinking of LDPE, as corroborated by an increasing gel fraction as determined by a solvent extraction method. The elongational measurements reveal a strong enhancement of strain hardening until a saturation level is achieved. The elongational data are analyzed in the frame work of two constitutive equations, the rubber-like liquid and the molecular stress function models. Within the experimental window, timedeformation separability is confirmed for all samples, independent of the degree of photo-oxidation.

Photoinduced Cross-Linking of Dynamic Poly(disulfide) Films via Thiol Oxidative Coupling.

PubMed

Feillée, Noémi; Chemtob, Abraham; Ley, Christian; Croutxé-Barghorn, Céline; Allonas, Xavier; Ponche, Arnaud; Le Nouen, Didier; Majjad, Hicham; Jacomine, Léandro

2016-01-01

Initially developed as an elastomer with an excellent record of barrier and chemical resistance properties, poly(disulfide) has experienced a revival linked to the dynamic nature of the S-S covalent bond. A novel photobase-catalyzed oxidative polymerization of multifunctional thiols to poly(disulfide) network is reported. Based solely on air oxidation, the single-step process is triggered by the photodecarboxylation of a xanthone acetic acid liberating a strong bicyclic guanidine base. Starting with a 1 μm thick film based on trithiol poly(ethylene oxide) oligomer, the UV-mediated oxidation of thiols to disulfides occurs in a matter of minutes both selectively, i.e., without overoxidation, and quantitatively as assessed by a range of spectroscopic techniques. Thiolate formation and film thickness determine the reaction rates and yield. Spatial control of the photopolymerization serves to generate robust micropatterns, while the reductive cleavage of S-S bridges allows the recycling of 40% of the initial thiol groups. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

77 FR 66437 - Antidumping or Countervailing Duty Order, Finding, or Suspended Investigation; Opportunity To...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-05

.../31/12 Refined Brown Aluminum Oxide, A-570-882 11/1/11-10/31/12 Seamless Carbon and Alloy Steel..., C-570-921 1/1/11 -12/31/11 Seamless Carbon and Alloy Steel Standard, Line, 1/1/11-12/31/11 and... Circular Welded Non-Alloy Steel Pipe, A- 11/1/11-10/31/12 351-809 Polyethylene Terephthalate Film, Sheet...

Preparation and Conductivity Measurements of Thin Film (PEO)nZnCl2 Electrolyte System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salehuddin, N.; Mohamad, A. A.; Alias, Y.

2010-03-01

We report zinc ion conducting thin film polymer based on non-volatile room temperature ionic liquid, with a zinc chloride dissolved in a water and blend with poly(ethylene) oxide in different ratio of salt. The resultant films are free standing, translucent, flexible and elastic. The conductivity measurement of the films was carried out at room temperature to find the highest conductivity films.

Secondary Li battery incorporating 12-Crown-4 ether

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nagasubramanian, Ganesan (Inventor); Distefano, Salvador (Inventor)

1992-01-01

A rechargeable lithium battery which utilizes a polyethylene oxide (PEO) solid polymeric electrolyte complexed with a lithium salt is disclosed. The conductivity is increased an order of magnitude and interfacial charge transfer resistance is substantially decreased by incorporating a minor amount of 12-Crown-4 ether in the PEO-lithium salt solid electrolyte film. Batteries containing the improved electrolyte permit operation at a lower temperature with improved efficiency.

Characterization of compressibility and compactibility of poly(ethylene oxide) polymers for modified release application by compaction simulator.

PubMed

Yang, L; Venkatesh, G; Fassihi, R

1996-10-01

Poly(ethylene oxide) polymers (PEO) appear to have great potential for controlled release applications. These polymers are hydrophilic with good water solubility, low toxicity, and high swelling capacity. As part of formulation optimization for a large-scale solid dosage form production, physicomechanical characterization of PEO was undertaken using a compaction simulator. Heckel plots for all PEOs were constructed, and yield pressures (Py) at different punch velocities were calculated from the linear portion of the plots. Low Py values, increase of Py with increasing punch speed, upward curvature of the plot, and strain rate sensitivity values indicate that the densification process and consolidation mechanism for PEOs of various molecular weights (0.2 x 10(6) to 7 x 10(6)) are identical and follow plastic deformation. PEOs have a high degree of crystallinity (57-85%) and show significant axial recovery (15-25%) upon decompression and ejection. The low Py values (58-78 MPa) and low mean compaction pressures demonstrate that volume reduction (compressibility) under pressure is excellent. However, due to viscoelastic behavior and large axial expansion, tablets of relatively low tensile strength are produced. These observations suggest the need to blend PEO with highly compactible excipients in order to produce tables on a high-speed production press.

Controlled lecithin release from a hierarchical architecture on blood-contacting surface to reduce hemolysis of stored red blood cells.

PubMed

Shi, Qiang; Fan, Qunfu; Ye, Wei; Hou, Jianwen; Wong, Shing-Chung; Xu, Xiaodong; Yin, Jinghua

2014-06-25

Hemolysis of red blood cells (RBCs) caused by implant devices in vivo and nonpolyvinyl chloride containers for RBC preservation in vitro has recently gained much attention. To develop blood-contacting biomaterials with long-term antihemolysis capability, we present a facile method to construct a hydrophilic, 3D hierarchical architecture on the surface of styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene elastomer (SEBS) with poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)/lecithin nano/microfibers. The strategy is based on electrospinning of PEO/lecithin fibers onto the surface of poly [poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate] [P(PEGMEMA)]-modified SEBS, which renders SEBS suitable for RBC storage in vitro. We demonstrate that the constructed 3D architecture is composed of hydrophilic micro- and nanofibers, which transforms to hydrogel networks immediately in blood; the controlled release of lecithin is achieved by gradual dissolution of PEO/lecithin hydrogels, and the interaction of lecithin with RBCs maintains the membrane flexibility and normal RBC shape. Thus, the blood-contacting surface reduces both mechanical and oxidative damage to RBC membranes, resulting in low hemolysis of preserved RBCs. This work not only paves new way to fabricate high hemocompatible biomaterials for RBC storage in vitro, but provides basic principles to design and develop antihemolysis biomaterials for implantation in vivo.

Polyethylene imine/graphene oxide layer-by-layer surface functionalization for significantly improved limit of detection and binding kinetics of immunoassays on acrylate surfaces.

PubMed

Miyazaki, Celina M; Mishra, Rohit; Kinahan, David J; Ferreira, Marystela; Ducrée, Jens

2017-10-01

Antibody immobilization on polymeric substrates is a key manufacturing step for microfluidic devices that implement sample-to-answer automation of immunoassays. In this work, a simple and versatile method to bio-functionalize poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA), a common material of such "Lab-on-a-Chip" systems, is proposed; using the Layer-by-Layer (LbL) technique, we assemble nanostructured thin films of poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) and graphene oxide (GO). The wettability of PMMA surfaces was significantly augmented by the surface treatment with (PEI/GO) 5 film, with an 81% reduction of the contact angle, while the surface roughness increased by 600%, thus clearly enhancing wettability and antibody binding capacity. When applied to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), the limit of detection of PMMA surface was notably improved from 340pgmL -1 on commercial grade polystyrene (PS) and 230pgmL -1 on plain PMMA surfaces to 130pgmL -1 on (PEI/GO) 5 treated PMMA. Furthermore, the accelerated antibody adsorption kinetics on the LbL films of GO allowed to substantially shorten incubation times, e.g. for anti-rat IgG adsorption from 2h down to 15min on conventional and treated surfaces, respectively. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

High efficiency solid state dye sensitized solar cells with graphene-polyethylene oxide composite electrolytes.

PubMed

Akhtar, M Shaheer; Kwon, Soonji; Stadler, Florian J; Yang, O Bong

2013-06-21

Novel and highly effective composite electrolytes were prepared by combining the two dimensional graphene (Gra) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) for the solid electrolyte of dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Gra sheets were uniformly coated by the polymer layer through the ester carboxylate bonding between oxygenated species on Gra sheets and PEO. The Gra-PEO composite electrolyte showed the large scale generation of iodide ions in a redox couple. From rheological analysis, the decrease in viscosity after the addition of LiI and I2 in the Gra-PEO electrolyte might be explained by the dipolar interactions being severely disrupted by the ionic interactions of Li(+), I(-), and I3(-) ions. A composite electrolyte with 0.5 wt% Gra presented a higher ionic conductivity (3.32 mS cm(-1)) than those of PEO and other composite electrolytes at room temperature. A high overall conversion efficiency (∼5.23%) with a very high short circuit current (JSC) of 18.32 mA cm(-2), open circuit voltage (VOC) of 0.592 V and fill factor (FF) of 0.48 was achieved in DSSCs fabricated with the 0.5 wt% Gra-PEO composite electrolyte. This enhanced photovoltaic performance might be attributed to the large scale formation of iodide ions in the redox electrolyte and the relatively high ionic conductivity.

The effect of microgeometry, implant thickness and polyurethane chemistry on the foreign body response to subcutaneous implants.

PubMed

Ward, W Kenneth; Slobodzian, Emily P; Tiekotter, Kenneth L; Wood, Michael D

2002-11-01

We addressed the effect of implant thickness, implant porosity, and polyurethane (PU) chemistry on angiogenesis and on the foreign body response in rats. The following materials were implanted subcutaneously for 7 weeks then excised for histologic analysis: a solid PU; a solid polyurethane with silicone and polyethylene oxide (PU-S-PEO); porous expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE); and porous polyvinyl alcohol sponge (PVA). Two thicknesses of PU-S-PEO were compared: 300 microns (thin) and 2000 microns (thick). Foreign body capsule (FBC) thickness was much less in PU-S-PEO implants than in PU implants. In addition, FBC were thinner in thin implants than in thick implants. FBC was much more dense in solid implants than in porous implants. As compared with solid implants, porous implants (PVA and ePTFE) led to a marked increase in the number of microvessels that developed adjacent to the implant, as observed both with hematoxylin/eosin staining and with an immunohistochemical anti-endothelial stain. We conclude that the polyethylene oxide and silicone moieties in PU reduce the thickness of the subsequent FBC. In addition, thin implants lead to a thin FBC. Porous implants (PVA and ePTFE) cause more angiogenesis than solid implants. These results may have implications for the measurement of blood-derived analytes by biosensors.

Nuclear magnetic resonance investigation of dynamics in poly(ethylene oxide)-based lithium polyether-ester-sulfonate ionomers

DOE PAGES

Roach, David J.; Dou, Shichen; Colby, Ralph H.; ...

2012-01-06

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy has been utilized to investigate the dynamics of poly(ethylene oxide)-based lithium sulfonate ionomer samples that have low glass transition temperatures. 1H and 7Li spin-lattice relaxation times (T 1) of the bulk polymer and lithium ions, respectively, were measured and analyzed in samples with a range of ion contents. The temperature dependence of T 1 values along with the presence of minima in T 1 as a function of temperature enabled correlation times and activation energies to be obtained for both the segmental motion of the polymer backbone and the hopping motion of lithium cations. Similarmore » activation energies for motion of both the polymer and lithium ions in the samples with lower ion content indicate that the polymer segmental motion and lithium ion hopping motion are correlated in these samples, even though their respective correlation times differ significantly. A divergent trend is observed for correlation times and activation energies of the highest ion content sample with 100% lithium sulfonation due to the presence of ionic aggregation. Details of the polymer and cation dynamics on the nanosecond timescale are discussed and complement the findings of X-ray scattering and Quasi Elastic Neutron Scattering experiments.« less

β-NMR measurements of molecular-scale lithium-ion dynamics in poly(ethylene oxide)-lithium-salt thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McKenzie, Iain; Cortie, David L.; Harada, Masashi; Kiefl, Robert F.; Levy, C. D. Philip; MacFarlane, W. Andrew; McFadden, Ryan M. L.; Morris, Gerald D.; Ogata, Shin-Ichi; Pearson, Matthew R.; Sugiyama, Jun

2017-06-01

β -detected NMR (β -NMR) has been used to study the molecular-scale dynamics of lithium ions in thin films of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) containing either lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) or lithium trifluoroacetate (LiTFA) salts at monomer-to-salt ratios (EO/Li) of 8.3. The results are compared with previous β -NMR measurements on pure PEO and PEO with lithium triflate (LiOTf) at the same loading [McKenzie et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 136, 7833 (2014)]. Activated hopping of 8Li+ was observed in all of the films above ˜250 K, with the hopping parameters strongly correlated with the ionicity of the lithium salt rather than the polymer glass transition temperature. The pre-exponential factor increases exponentially with ionicity, while the activation energy for hopping increases approximately linearly, going from 6.3 ±0.2 kJ mol-1 in PEO:LiTFA to 17.8 ±0.2 kJ mol-1 in PEO:LiTFSI. The more rapid increase in the pre-exponential factor outweighs the effect of the larger activation energy and results in 8Li+ hopping being fastest in PEO followed by PEO:LiTFSI, PEO:LiOTf, and PEO:LiTFA.

Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Poly(ethylene oxide) Grafted onto Silica Immersed in Melt of Homopolymers.

PubMed

Benková, Zuzana; Cordeiro, M Natália D S

2015-09-22

Tuning of surface properties plays an important role in applications ranging from material engineering to biomedicine/chemistry. The interactions of chains grafted to a solid support and exposed to a matrix of chemically identical chains represent an intriguing issue. In this work, the behavior of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) chains grafted irreversibly onto an amorphous silica and immersed in the matrix of free PEO chains of different polymerization degree is studied using molecular dynamics simulations. The density distributions of grafted and free PEO chains, the height of the grafted layer, overlap parameters, and orientation order parameters depend not only on the grafting density but also on the length of free chains which confirm the entropic nature of the interactions between the grafted and free chains. In order to achieve a complete expulsion of the free chains from the grafted layer, a grafting density as high as 3.5 nm(-2) is necessary. Free PEO chains of 9 monomers leave the grafted layer at lower grafting densities than the longer PEO chains of 18 monomers in contrast with the theoretical predictions. The height of the grafted layer evolves with the grafting density in the presence of free chains in qualitative agreement with the theoretical phase diagram.

Nanoscale confinement effects on the relaxation dynamics in networks of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A and low-molecular-weight poly(ethylene oxide).

PubMed

Kalogeras, Ioannis M; Stathopoulos, Andreas; Vassilikou-Dova, Aglaia; Brostow, Witold

2007-03-22

Thermoplastic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) (Mw(PEO) approximately 4000) has been used to prepare thermosetting nanocomposites incorporating diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) epoxy oligomer. Blends with various PEO/DGEBA weight ratios were cured using stoichiometric portions of 4,4'-diaminodiphenylmethane. The resulting semi-interpenetrating polymer networks were studied by several techniques. Nanoscale confinement effects, thermal (glass transition, melting and crystallization temperatures) and structural features of our materials are similar to those for networks with much higher Mw(PEO) and different curing agents; however, the polyether crystallization onset occurs in our case at a lower PEO concentration; shorter PEO chains organize themselves more easily into crystalline domains. Very low estimates of the k parameter of the Gordon-Taylor equation, used to fit the compositional dependences of the dielectric and calorimetric glass transition temperatures, and a strong plasticization of the motion of the glyceryl segments (beta-relaxation) in the epoxy resin were observed. These illustrate an intensified weakening in the strength of the intermolecular interactions in the modified networks, as compared to the high strength of the self-association of hydroxyls in the neat resin. The significance of hydrogen-bonding interactions between the components for obtaining structurally homogeneous thermoset-i-thermoplastic networks is discussed.

β-NMR measurements of molecular-scale lithium-ion dynamics in poly(ethylene oxide)-lithium-salt thin films.

PubMed

McKenzie, Iain; Cortie, David L; Harada, Masashi; Kiefl, Robert F; Levy, C D Philip; MacFarlane, W Andrew; McFadden, Ryan M L; Morris, Gerald D; Ogata, Shin-Ichi; Pearson, Matthew R; Sugiyama, Jun

2017-06-28

β-detected NMR (β-NMR) has been used to study the molecular-scale dynamics of lithium ions in thin films of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) containing either lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) or lithium trifluoroacetate (LiTFA) salts at monomer-to-salt ratios (EO/Li) of 8.3. The results are compared with previous β-NMR measurements on pure PEO and PEO with lithium triflate (LiOTf) at the same loading [McKenzie et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 136, 7833 (2014)]. Activated hopping of 8 Li + was observed in all of the films above ∼250 K, with the hopping parameters strongly correlated with the ionicity of the lithium salt rather than the polymer glass transition temperature. The pre-exponential factor increases exponentially with ionicity, while the activation energy for hopping increases approximately linearly, going from 6.3±0.2 kJ mol -1 in PEO:LiTFA to 17.8±0.2 kJ mol -1 in PEO:LiTFSI. The more rapid increase in the pre-exponential factor outweighs the effect of the larger activation energy and results in 8 Li + hopping being fastest in PEO followed by PEO:LiTFSI, PEO:LiOTf, and PEO:LiTFA.

A noncovalent compatibilization approach to improve the filler dispersion and properties of polyethylene/graphene composites.

PubMed

Vasileiou, Alexandros A; Kontopoulou, Marianna; Docoslis, Aristides

2014-02-12

Graphene was prepared by low temperature vacuum-assisted thermal exfoliation of graphite oxide. The resulting thermally reduced graphene oxide (TRGO) had a specific surface area of 586 m(2)/g and consisted of a mixture of single-layered and multilayered graphene. The TRGO was added to maleated linear low-density polyethylene LLDPE and to its derivatives with pyridine aromatic groups by melt compounding. The LLDPE/TRGO composites exhibited very low electrical percolation thresholds, between 0.5 and 0.9 vol %, depending on the matrix viscosity and the type of functional groups. The dispersion of the TRGO in the compatibilized composites was improved significantly, due to enhanced noncovalent interactions between the aromatic moieties grafted onto the polymer matrix and the filler. Better dispersion resulted in a slight increase in the rheological and electrical percolation thresholds, and to significant improvements in mechanical properties and thermal conductivity, compared to the noncompatibilized composites. The presence of high surface area nanoplatelets within the polymer also resulted in a substantially improved thermal stability. Compared to their counterparts containing multiwalled carbon nanotubes, LLDPE/TRGO composites had lower percolation thresholds. Therefore, lower amounts of TRGO were sufficient to impart electrical conductivity and modulus improvements, without compromising the ductility of the composites.

Titanate nanotubes for reinforcement of a poly(ethylene oxide)/chitosan polymer matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Porras, R.; Bavykin, D. V.; Zekonyte, J.; Walsh, F. C.; Wood, R. J.

2016-05-01

Soft polyethylene oxide (PEO)/chitosan mixtures, reinforced with hard titanate nanotubes (TiNTs) by co-precipitation from aqueous solution, have been used to produce compact coatings by the ‘drop-cast’ method, using water soluble PEO polymer and stable, aqueous colloidal solutions of TiNTs. The effects of the nanotube concentration and their length on the hardness and modulus of the prepared composite have been studied using nanoindentation and nanoscratch techniques. The uniformity of TiNT dispersion within the polymer matrix has been studied using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A remarkable increase in hardness and reduced Young’s modulus of the composites, compared to pure polymer blends, has been observed at a TiNT concentration of 25 wt %. The short (up to 30 min) ultrasound treatment of aqueous solutions containing polymers and a colloidal TiNT mixture prior to drop casting has resulted in some improvements in both hardness and reduced Young’s modulus of dry composite films, probably due to a better dispersion of ceramic nanotubes within the matrix. However, further (more than 1 h) treatment of the mixture with ultrasound resulted in a deterioration of the mechanical properties of the composite accompanied by a shortening of the nanotubes, as observed by the TEM.

Resistance of poly(ethylene oxide)-silane monolayers to the growth of polyelectrolyte multilayers.

PubMed

Buron, Cédric C; Callegari, Vincent; Nysten, Bernard; Jonas, Alain M

2007-09-11

The ability of poly(ethylene oxide)-silane (PEO-silane) monolayers grafted onto silicon surfaces to resist the growth of polyelectrolyte multilayers under various pH conditions is assessed for different pairs of polyelectrolytes of varying molar mass. For acidic conditions (pH 3), the PEO-silane monolayers exhibit good polyelectrolyte repellency provided the polyelectrolytes bear no moieties that are able to form hydrogen bonds with the ether groups of the PEO chains. At basic pH, PEO-silane monolayers undergo substantial hydrolysis leading to the formation of negatively charged defects in the monolayers, which then play the role of adsorption sites for the polycation. Once the polycation is adsorbed, multilayer growth ensues. Because this is defect-driven growth, the multilayer is not continuous and is made of blobs or an open network of adsorbed strands. For such conditions, the molar mass of the polyelectrolyte plays a key role, with polyelectrolyte chains of larger molar mass adsorbing on a larger number of defects, resulting in stronger anchoring of the polyelectrolyte complex on the surfaces and faster subsequent growth of the multilayer. For polyelectrolytes of sufficiently low molar mass at pH 9, the growth of the multilayer can nevertheless be prevented for as much as five cycles of deposition.

Adhesion mapping of chemically modified and poly(ethylene oxide)-grafted glass surfaces.

PubMed

Jogikalmath, G; Stuart, J K; Pungor, A; Hlady, V

1999-08-01

Two-dimensional mapping of the adhesion pull-off forces was used to study the origin of surface heterogeneity in the grafted poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) layer. The variance of the pull-off forces measured over the μm-sized regions after each chemical step of modifying glass surfaces was taken to be a measure of the surface chemical heterogeneity. The attachment of γ-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxy silane (GPS) to glass decreased the pull-off forces relative to the clean glass and made the surface more uniform. The subsequent hydrolysis of the terminal epoxide groups resulted in a larger surface heterogeneity which was modeled by two populations of the terminal hydroxyl groups, each with its own distribution of adhesion forces and force variance. The activation of the hydroxyls with carbonyldiimmidazole (CDI) healed the surface and lowered its adhesion, however, the force variance remained rather large. Finally, the grafting of the α,ω-diamino poly(ethyleneoxide) chains to the CDI-activated glass largely eliminated adhesion except at a few discrete regions. The adhesion on the PEO grafted layer followed the Poisson distribution of the pull-off forces. With the exception of the glass surface, a correlation between the water contact angles and the mean pull-off forces measured with the Si(3)N(4) tip surfaces was found for all modified glass surfaces.

A graphene oxide based smart drug delivery system for tumor mitochondria-targeting photodynamic therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Yanchun; Zhou, Feifan; Zhang, Da; Chen, Qun; Xing, Da

2016-02-01

Subcellular organelles play critical roles in cell survival. In this work, a novel photodynamic therapy (PDT) drug delivery and phototoxicity on/off nano-system based on graphene oxide (NGO) as the carrier is developed to implement subcellular targeting and attacking. To construct the nanodrug (PPa-NGO-mAb), NGO is modified with the integrin αvβ3 monoclonal antibody (mAb) for tumor targeting. Pyropheophorbide-a (PPa) conjugated with polyethylene-glycol is used to cover the surface of the NGO to induce phototoxicity. Polyethylene-glycol phospholipid is loaded to enhance water solubility. The results show that the phototoxicity of PPa on NGO can be switched on and off in organic and aqueous environments, respectively. The PPa-NGO-mAb assembly is able to effectively target the αvβ3-positive tumor cells with surface ligand and receptor recognition; once endocytosized by the cells, they are observed escaping from lysosomes and subsequently transferring to the mitochondria. In the mitochondria, the `on' state PPa-NGO-mAb performs its effective phototoxicity to kill cells. The biological and physical dual selections and on/off control of PPa-NGO-mAb significantly enhance mitochondria-mediated apoptosis of PDT. This smart system offers a potential alternative to drug delivery systems for cancer therapy.Subcellular organelles play critical roles in cell survival. In this work, a novel photodynamic therapy (PDT) drug delivery and phototoxicity on/off nano-system based on graphene oxide (NGO) as the carrier is developed to implement subcellular targeting and attacking. To construct the nanodrug (PPa-NGO-mAb), NGO is modified with the integrin αvβ3 monoclonal antibody (mAb) for tumor targeting. Pyropheophorbide-a (PPa) conjugated with polyethylene-glycol is used to cover the surface of the NGO to induce phototoxicity. Polyethylene-glycol phospholipid is loaded to enhance water solubility. The results show that the phototoxicity of PPa on NGO can be switched on and off in organic and aqueous environments, respectively. The PPa-NGO-mAb assembly is able to effectively target the αvβ3-positive tumor cells with surface ligand and receptor recognition; once endocytosized by the cells, they are observed escaping from lysosomes and subsequently transferring to the mitochondria. In the mitochondria, the `on' state PPa-NGO-mAb performs its effective phototoxicity to kill cells. The biological and physical dual selections and on/off control of PPa-NGO-mAb significantly enhance mitochondria-mediated apoptosis of PDT. This smart system offers a potential alternative to drug delivery systems for cancer therapy. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr07785k

Precise measurement of the self-diffusion coefficient for poly(ethylene glycol) in aqueous solution using uniform oligomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimada, Kayori; Kato, Haruhisa; Saito, Takeshi; Matsuyama, Shigetomo; Kinugasa, Shinichi

2005-06-01

Uniform poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) oligomers, with a degree of polymerization n =1-40, were separated by preparative supercritical fluid chromatography from commercial monodispersed samples. Diffusion coefficients, D, for separated uniform PEG oligomers were measured in dilute solutions of deuterium oxide (D2O) at 30 ° C, using pulsed-field gradient nuclear magnetic resonance. The measured D for each molecular weight was extrapolated to infinite dilution. Diffusion coefficients obtained at infinite dilution follow the scaling behavior of Zimm-type diffusion, even in the lower molecular weight range. Molecular-dynamics simulations for PEG in H2O also showed this scaling behavior, and reproduced close hydrodynamic interactions between PEG and water. These findings suggest that diffusion of PEG in water is dominated by hydrodynamic interaction over a wide molecular weight range, including at low molecular weights around 1000.

Electrically and Thermally Conductive Low Density Polyethylene-Based Nanocomposites Reinforced by MWCNT or Hybrid MWCNT/Graphene Nanoplatelets with Improved Thermo-Oxidative Stability.

PubMed

Paszkiewicz, Sandra; Szymczyk, Anna; Pawlikowska, Daria; Subocz, Jan; Zenker, Marek; Masztak, Roman

2018-04-22

In this paper, the electrical and thermal conductivity and morphological behavior of low density polyethylene (LDPE)/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) + graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) hybrid nanocomposites (HNCs) have been studied. The distribution of MWCNTs and the hybrid of MWCNTs/GNPs within the polymer matrix has been investigated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the thermal and electrical conductivity of the LDPE-based nanocomposites increased along with the increasing content of carbon nanofillers. However, one could observe greater improvement in the thermal and electrical conductivity when only MWCNTs have been incorporated. Moreover, the improvement in tensile properties and thermal stability has been observed when carbon nanofillers have been mixed with LDPE. At the same time, the increasing content of MWCNTs and MWCNTs/GNPs caused an increase in the melt viscosity with only little effect on phase transition temperatures.

Electrically and Thermally Conductive Low Density Polyethylene-Based Nanocomposites Reinforced by MWCNT or Hybrid MWCNT/Graphene Nanoplatelets with Improved Thermo-Oxidative Stability

PubMed Central

Pawlikowska, Daria; Subocz, Jan; Zenker, Marek; Masztak, Roman

2018-01-01

In this paper, the electrical and thermal conductivity and morphological behavior of low density polyethylene (LDPE)/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) + graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) hybrid nanocomposites (HNCs) have been studied. The distribution of MWCNTs and the hybrid of MWCNTs/GNPs within the polymer matrix has been investigated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the thermal and electrical conductivity of the LDPE-based nanocomposites increased along with the increasing content of carbon nanofillers. However, one could observe greater improvement in the thermal and electrical conductivity when only MWCNTs have been incorporated. Moreover, the improvement in tensile properties and thermal stability has been observed when carbon nanofillers have been mixed with LDPE. At the same time, the increasing content of MWCNTs and MWCNTs/GNPs caused an increase in the melt viscosity with only little effect on phase transition temperatures. PMID:29690551

The alterations in high density polyethylene properties with gamma irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaki, M. F.; Elshaer, Y. H.; Taha, Doaa. H.

2017-10-01

In the present investigation, high density polyethylene (HDPE) polymer has been used to study the alterations in its properties under gamma-irradiation. Physico-chemical properties have been investigated with different spectroscopy techniques, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), biocompatibility properties, as well as, mechanical properties change. The FT-IR analysis shows the formation of new band at 1716 cm-1 that is attributed to the oxidation of irradiated polymer chains, which is due to the formation of carbonyl groups (C˭O). XRD patterns show that a decrease in the crystallite size and increase in the Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM). This means that the crystallinity of irradiated samples is decreased with increase in gamma dose. The contact angle measurements show an increase in the surface free energy as the gamma irradiation increases. The measurements of mechanical properties of irradiated HDPE samples were discussed.

Extraction processes and solvents for recovery of cesium, strontium, rare earth elements, technetium and actinides from liquid radioactive waste

DOEpatents

Zaitsev, Boris N.; Esimantovskiy, Vyacheslav M.; Lazarev, Leonard N.; Dzekun, Evgeniy G.; Romanovskiy, Valeriy N.; Todd, Terry A.; Brewer, Ken N.; Herbst, Ronald S.; Law, Jack D.

2001-01-01

Cesium and strontium are extracted from aqueous acidic radioactive waste containing rare earth elements, technetium and actinides, by contacting the waste with a composition of a complex organoboron compound and polyethylene glycol in an organofluorine diluent mixture. In a preferred embodiment the complex organoboron compound is chlorinated cobalt dicarbollide, the polyethylene glycol has the formula RC.sub.6 H.sub.4 (OCH.sub.2 CH.sub.2).sub.n OH, and the organofluorine diluent is a mixture of bis-tetrafluoropropyl ether of diethylene glycol with at least one of bis-tetrafluoropropyl ether of ethylene glycol and bis-tetrafluoropropyl formal. The rare earths, technetium and the actinides (especially uranium, plutonium and americium), are extracted from the aqueous phase using a phosphine oxide in a hydrocarbon diluent, and reextracted from the resulting organic phase into an aqueous phase by using a suitable strip reagent.

Demonstration of pharmaceutical tablet coating process by injection molding technology.

PubMed

Puri, Vibha; Brancazio, David; Harinath, Eranda; Martinez, Alexander R; Desai, Parind M; Jensen, Keith D; Chun, Jung-Hoon; Braatz, Richard D; Myerson, Allan S; Trout, Bernhardt L

2018-01-15

We demonstrate the coating of tablets using an injection molding (IM) process that has advantage of being solvent free and can provide precision coat features. The selected core tablets comprising 10% w/w griseofulvin were prepared by an integrated hot melt extrusion-injection molding (HME-IM) process. Coating trials were conducted on a vertical injection mold machine. Polyethylene glycol and polyethylene oxide based hot melt extruded coat compositions were used. Tablet coating process feasibility was successfully demonstrated using different coating mold designs (with both overlapping and non-overlapping coatings at the weld) and coat thicknesses of 150 and 300 μm. The resultant coated tablets had acceptable appearance, seal at the weld, and immediate drug release profile (with an acceptable lag time). Since IM is a continuous process, this study opens opportunities to develop HME-IM continuous processes for transforming powder to coated tablets. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Biomimetic Oxidation Studies. 11. Alkane Functionalization in Aqueous Solution Utilizing in Situ Formed [Fe(2)O(eta(1)-H(2)O)(eta(1)-OAc)(TPA)(2)](3+), as an MMO Model Precatalyst, Embedded in Surface-Derivatized Silica and Contained in Micelles.

PubMed

Neimann, Karine; Neumann, Ronny; Rabion, Alain; Buchanan, Robert M.; Fish, Richard H.

1999-07-26

The biomimetic, methane monooxygenase enzyme (MMO) precatalyst, [Fe(2)O(eta(1)-H(2)O)(eta(1)-OAc)(TPA)(2)](3+) (TPA = tris[(2-pyridyl)methyl]amine), 1, formed in situ at pH 4.2 from [Fe(2)O(&mgr;-OAc)(TPA)(2)](3+), 2, was embedded in an amorphous silicate surface modified by a combination of hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) and hydrophobic poly(propylene oxide). The resulting catalytic assembly was found to be a biomimetic model for the MMO active site within a hydrophobic macroenvironment, allowing alkane functionalization with tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP)/O(2) in an aqueous reaction medium (pH 4.2). For example, cyclohexane was oxidized to a mixture of cyclohexanone, cyclohexanol, and cyclohexyl-tert-butyl peroxide, in a ratio of approximately 3:1:2. The balance between poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(propylene oxide), tethered on the silica surface, was crucial for maximizing the catalytic activity. The silica-based catalytic assembly showed reactivity somewhat higher in comparison to an aqueous micelle system utilizing the surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium hydrogen sulfate at its critical micelle concentration, in which functionalization of cyclohexane with TBHP/O(2) in the presence of 1 was also studied at pH 4.2 and was found to provide similar products: cyclohexanol, cyclohexanone, and cyclohexyl-tert-butyl peroxide, in a ratio of approximately 2:3:1. Moreover, the mechanism for both the silica-based catalytic assembly and the aqueous micelle system was found to occur via the Haber-Weiss process, in which redox chemistry between 1 and TBHP provides both the t-BuO(*)() and t-BuOO(*)()( )()radicals. The t-BuO(*)()( )()radical initiates the C-H functionalization reaction to form the carbon radical, followed by O(2) trapping, to provide cyclohexyl hydroperoxide, which produces the cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone in the presence of 1, whereas the coupling product emanates from t-BuOO(*)() and cyclohexyl radicals. A discussion concerning both approaches for alkane functionalization in water will be presented.

Bioactivity, cytocompatibility and thermal properties of experimental Bioglass-reinforced composites as potential root-canal filling materials.

PubMed

Alhashimi, Raghad Abdulrazzaq; Mannocci, Francesco; Sauro, Salvatore

2017-05-01

To evaluate the bioactivity and the cytocompatibility of experimental Bioglass-reinforced polyethylene-based root-canal filling materials. The thermal properties of the experimental materials were also evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry, while their radiopacity was assessed using a grey-scale value (GSV) aluminium step wedge and a phosphor plate digital system. Bioglass 45S5 (BAG), polyethylene and Strontium oxide (SrO) were used to create tailored composite fibres. The filler distribution within the composites was assessed using SEM, while their bioactivity was evaluated through infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) after storage in simulated body fluid (SBF). The radiopacity of the composite fibres and their thermal properties were determined using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The cytocompatibility of the experimental composites used in this study was assessed using human osteoblasts and statistically analysed using the Pairwise t-test (p<0.05). Bioglass and SrO fillers were well distributed within the resin matrix and increased both the thermal properties and the radiopacity of the polyethylene matrix. The FTIR showed a clear formation of calcium-phosphates, while, MTT and AlamrBlue tests demonstrated no deleterious effects on the metabolic activity of the osteoblast-like cells. BAG-reinforced polyethylene composites may be suitable as obturation materials for endodontic treatment. Since their low melting temperature, such innovative composites may be easily removed in case of root canal retreatment. Moreover, their biocompatibility and bioactivity may benefit proliferation of human osteoblast cells at the periapical area of the root. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

One-pot synthesis of star-shaped macromolecules containing polyglycidol and poly(ethylene oxide) arms.

PubMed

Lapienis, Grzegorz; Penczek, Stanislaw

2005-01-01

Synthesis of fully hydrophilic star-shaped macromolecules with different kinds of arms (A(x)B(y)C(z)) based on polyglycidol (PGL, A(x)) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO, C(z)) arms and diepoxy compounds (diglycidyl ethers of ethylene glycol (DGEG) or neopentyl glycol (DGNG) in the core, B(y)) forming the core is described. Precursors of arms were prepared by polymerization of glycidol with protected -OH groups. The first-generation stars were formed in the series of consecutive-parallel reactions of arms A(x) with diepoxy compounds (B). These first-generation stars (A(x)B(y)), having approximately O-, Mt+ groups on the cores, were used as multianionic initiators for the second generation of arms (C(z)) built by polymerization of ethylene oxide. The products with M(n) up to 10(5) and having up to approximately 40 arms were obtained. The number of arms (f) was determined by direct measurements of M(n) of the first-generation stars (M(n) of arms A(x) is known), compared with f calculated from the branching index g, determined from R(g) measured with size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) triple detection with TriSEC software. The progress of the star formation was monitored by 1H NMR and SEC. These novel water-soluble stars, having a large number of hydroxyl groups, both at the ends of PEO arms as well as within the PGL arms, can be functionalized and further used for attaching compounds of interest. This approach opens, therefore, a new way of "multiPEGylation".

Synergistic effect of calcium stearate and photo treatment on the rate of biodegradation of low density polyethylene spent saline vials.

PubMed

Carol, D; Karpagam, S; Kingsley, S J; Vincent, S

2012-07-01

The biodegradation of spent saline bottles, a low density polyethylene product (LDPE) by two selected Arthrobacter sp. under in vitro conditions is reported. Chemical and UV pretreatment play a vital role in enhancing the rate of biodegradation. Treated LDPE film exhibits a higher weight loss and density when compared to untreated films. Arthrobacter oxydans and Arthrobacter globiformis grew better in medium containing pretreated film than in medium containing untreated film. The decrease in density and weight loss of LDPE was also more for pretreated film when compared to untreated film indicating the affect of abiotic treatment on mechanical properties of LDPE. The decrease in the absorbance corresponding to carbonyl groups and double bonds that were generated during pretreatment suggest that some of the double bonds were cut by Arthrobacter species. Since Arthrobacter sp. are capable of degrading urea, splitting of urea group were also seen in FTIR spectrum indicating the evidence of biodegradation after microbial incubation. The results indicated that biodegradation rate could be enhanced by exposing LDPE to calcium stearate (a pro-oxidant) which acts as an initiator for the oxidation of the polymers leading to a decrease of molecular weight and formation of hydrophilic group. Therefore, the initial step for biodegradation of many inert polymers depends on a photo-oxidation of those polymers. The application in sufficient details with improved procedures utilizing recombinant microorganism with polymer degradation capacity can lead to a better plastic waste management in biomedical field. The present plastic disposal trend of waste accumulation can be minimized with this promising eco-friendly technique.

Using solvent-free sample preparation to promote protonation of poly(ethylene oxide)s with labile end-groups in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation.

PubMed

Mazarin, Michael; Phan, Trang N T; Charles, Laurence

2008-12-01

Protonation is usually required to observe intact ions during matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) of polymers containing fragile end-groups while cation adduction induces chain-end degradation. These polymers, generally obtained via living free radical polymerization techniques, are terminated with a functionality in which a bond is prone to homolytic cleavage, as required by the polymerization process. A solvent-free sample preparation method was used here to avoid salt contaminant from the solvent traditionally used in the dried-droplet MALDI procedure. Solvent-based and solvent-free sample preparations were compared for a series of three poly(ethylene oxide) polymers functionalized with a labile end-group in a nitroxide-mediated polymerization reaction, using 2,4,6-trihydroxyacetophenone (THAP) as the matrix without any added salt. Intact oligomer ions could only be produced as protonated molecules in solvent-free MALDI while sodium adducts of degraded polymers were formed from the dried-droplet samples. Although MALDI analysis was performed at the laser threshold, fragmentation of protonated macromolecules was still observed to occur. However, in contrast to sodiated molecules, dissociation of protonated oligomers does not involve the labile C--ON bond of the end-group. As the macromolecule size increased, protonation appeared to be less efficient and sodium adduction became the dominant ionization process, although no sodium salt was added in the preparation. Formation of sodiated degraded macromolecules would be dictated by increasing cation affinity as the size of the oligomers increases and would reveal the presence of salts at trace levels in the MALDI samples.

Characterization and Accelerated Ageing of UHMWPE Used in Orthopedic Prosthesis by Peroxide

PubMed Central

Rocha, Magda; Mansur, Alexandra; Mansur, Herman

2009-01-01

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been the most commonly used bearing material in total joint arthroplasty. Wear and oxidation fatigue resistance of UHMWPE are regarded as two important mechanical properties to extend the longevity of knee prostheses. Though accelerated in vitro protocols have been developed to test the relative oxidation resistance of various types of UHMWPE, its mechanism is not accurately understood yet. Thus, in the present study an accelerated ageing of UHMWPE in hydrogen peroxide solution was performed and relative oxidation was extensively characterized by Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy and the morphological changes were analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Different chemical groups of UHMWPE associated with the degradation reaction were monitored for over 120 days in order to evaluate the possible oxidation mechanism(s) which may have occurred. The results have provided strong evidence that the oxidation mechanism is rather complex, and two stages with their own particular first-order kinetics reaction patterns have been clearly identified. Furthermore, hydrogen peroxide has proven to be an efficient oxidative medium to accelerate ageing of UHMWPE.

A study of the effects of solid phase reactions on the thermal degradation and ballistic properties of solid propellants

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schmidt, W. G.

1974-01-01

The thermal stability of perchlorate composite propellants was studied at 135 and 170 C. The experimental efforts were concentrated on determining the importance of heterogeneous oxidizer-fuel reactions in the thermal degradation process. The experimental approach used to elucidate the mechanisms by which the oxidizer fuel composites thermally degrade was divided into two parts: (1) keeping the fuel constant and varying the nature of the oxidizers, and (2) holding the oxidizer constant and varying the fuel components. The fuel component primarily utilized in the first phase was polyethylene. Oxidizers included KClO4, KClO3, NH4ClO4 and NH4ClO4 doped with materials such as chlorate, phosphate and arsenate. In the second phase the oxidizer used was primarily NH4ClO4 while the fuels included saturated and unsaturated polybutadiene prepolymers and a series of bonding agents. Techniques employed in the current study include thermogravimetric measurements, differential thermal analysis, infrared, mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, and appropriate wet chemical analysis.

Adhesion and Growth of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells on Nanostructured and Biofunctionalized Polyethylene

PubMed Central

Novotna, Katarina; Bacakova, Marketa; Kasalkova, Nikola Slepickova; Slepicka, Petr; Lisa, Vera; Svorcik, Vaclav; Bacakova, Lucie

2013-01-01

Cell colonization of synthetic polymers can be regulated by physical and chemical modifications of the polymer surface. High-density and low-density polyethylene (HDPE and LDPE) were therefore activated with Ar+ plasma and grafted with fibronectin (Fn) or bovine serum albumin (BSA). The water drop contact angle usually decreased on the plasma-treated samples, due to the formation of oxidized groups, and this decrease was inversely related to the plasma exposure time (50–300 s). The presence of nitrogen and sulfur on the polymer surface, revealed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and also by immunofluorescence staining, showed that Fn and BSA were bound to this surface, particularly to HDPE. Plasma modification and grafting with Fn and BSA increased the nanoscale surface roughness of the polymer. This was mainly manifested on HDPE. Plasma treatment and grafting with Fn or BSA improved the adhesion and growth of vascular smooth muscle cells in a serum-supplemented medium. The final cell population densities on day 6 after seeding were on an average higher on LDPE than on HDPE. In a serum-free medium, BSA grafted to the polymer surface hampered cell adhesion. Thus, the cell behavior on polyethylene can be modulated by its type, intensity of plasma modification, grafting with biomolecules, and composition of the culture medium. PMID:28809234

Mechanisms for Covalent Immobilization of Horseradish Peroxidase on Ion-Beam-Treated Polyethylene

PubMed Central

Kondyurin, Alexey V.; Naseri, Pourandokht; Tilley, Jennifer M. R.; Nosworthy, Neil J.; Bilek, Marcela M. M.; McKenzie, David R.

2012-01-01

The surface of polyethylene was modified by plasma immersion ion implantation. Structure changes including carbonization and oxidation were observed. High surface energy of the modified polyethylene was attributed to the presence of free radicals on the surface. The surface energy decay with storage time after treatment was explained by a decay of the free radical concentration while the concentration of oxygen-containing groups increased with storage time. Horseradish peroxidase was covalently attached onto the modified surface by the reaction with free radicals. Appropriate blocking agents can block this reaction. All aminoacid residues can take part in the covalent attachment process, providing a universal mechanism of attachment for all proteins. The native conformation of attached protein is retained due to hydrophilic interactions in the interface region. The enzymatic activity of covalently attached protein remained high. The long-term activity of the modified layer to attach protein is explained by stabilisation of unpaired electrons in sp2 carbon structures. A high concentration of free radicals can give multiple covalent bonds to the protein molecule and destroy the native conformation and with it the catalytic activity. The universal mechanism of protein attachment to free radicals could be extended to various methods of radiation damage of polymers. PMID:24278665

Synthesis and luminescence properties of hybrid organic-inorganic transparent titania thin film activated by in- situ formed lanthanide complexes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yige; Wang, Li; Li, Huanrong; Liu, Peng; Qin, Dashan; Liu, Binyuan; Zhang, Wenjun; Deng, Ruiping; Zhang, Hongjie

2008-03-01

Stable transparent titania thin films were fabricated at room temperature by combining thenoyltrifluoroacetone (TTFA)-modified titanium precursors with amphiphilic triblock poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO, P123) copolymers. The obtained transparent titania thin films were systematically investigated by IR spectroscopy, PL emission and excitation spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. IR spectroscopy indicates that TTFA coordinates the titanium center during the process of hydrolysis and condensation. Luminescence spectroscopy confirms the in-situ formation of lanthanide complexes in the transparent titania thin film. TEM image shows that the in-situ formed lanthanide complexes were homogeneously distributed throughout the whole thin film. The quantum yield and the number of water coordinated to lanthanide metal center have been theoretically determined based on the luminescence data.

Mucoadhesive and thermogelling systems for vaginal drug delivery.

PubMed

Caramella, Carla M; Rossi, Silvia; Ferrari, Franca; Bonferoni, Maria Cristina; Sandri, Giuseppina

2015-09-15

This review focuses on two formulation approaches, mucoadhesion and thermogelling, intended for prolonging residence time on vaginal mucosa of medical devices or drug delivery systems, thus improving their efficacy. The review, after a brief description of the vaginal environment and, in particular, of the vaginal secretions that strongly affect in vivo performance of vaginal formulations, deals with the above delivery systems. As for mucoadhesive systems, conventional formulations (gels, tablets, suppositories and emulsions) and novel drug delivery systems (micro-, nano-particles) intended for vaginal administration to achieve either local or systemic effect are reviewed. As for thermogelling systems, poly(ethylene oxide-propylene oxide-ethylene oxide) copolymer-based and chitosan-based formulations are discussed as thermogelling systems. The methods employed for functional characterization of both mucoadhesive and thermogelling drug delivery systems are also briefly described. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Preparation and Characterization of Single Ion Conductors from High Surface Area Fumed Silica

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhang, H.; Maitra, P.; Liu, B.; Wunder, S. L.; Lin, H.-P.; Salomon, M.; Hagedorn, Norman H. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

Anions that can form dissociative salts with Li(+) have been prepared and covalently attached to high surface area fumed silica. When blended with polyethylene oxide (PEO), the functionalized fumed silica suppresses the crystallization of the PEO, provides dimensional stability, and serves as a single ion conductor. Since functionalized fumed silica is easily dispersed in common polar solvents, it can be incorporated in both the polymer electrolyte and the electrodes.

Effect of Pressure on Conductivity in Poly(Ethylene Oxide) Complexed with Alkali Metal Salts.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-05-01

I. ill thii ai lIion o lim ;oPlb - :11 orde e to I i u PIil I I 𔃺. !IO ent, dynawical where lo~ isutll-r:lail coii’,iii:Sililty. Iiif cdl IV. it IC...iacek :,w-:.,i (e n mpr:]v 1)Dr .Janet Ostero ung

Magnetic Nanocomposites and Their Incorporation into Higher Order Biosynthetic Functional Architectures

DOE PAGES

Watt, John; Collins, Aaron M.; Vreeland, Erika C.; ...

2018-01-17

A magnetically active Fe 3O 4/poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(butadiene) (PEO-b-PBD) nanocomposite is formed by the encapsulation of magnetite nanoparticles with a short-chain amphiphilic block copolymer. This material is then incorporated into the self-assembly of higher order polymer architectures, along with an organic pigment, to yield biosynthetic, bifunctional optical and magnetically active Fe 3O 4/bacteriochlorophyll c/PEO-b-PBD polymeric chlorosomes.

Block copolymer libraries: modular versatility of the macromolecular Lego system.

PubMed

Lohmeijer, Bas G G; Wouters, Daan; Yin, Zhihui; Schubert, Ulrich S

2004-12-21

The synthesis and characterization of a new 4 x 4 library of block copolymers based on polystyrene and poly(ethylene oxide) connected by an asymmetrical octahedral bis(terpyridine) ruthenium complex at the block junction are described, while initial studies on the thin film morphology of the components of the library are presented by the use of Atomic Force Microscopy, demonstrating the impact of a library approach to derive structure-property relationships.

Nonaggregating Microspheres Containing Aldehyde Groups

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rembaum, Alan

1989-01-01

Cobalt gamma irradiation of hydrophilic monomers in presence of acrolein yields exceptionally-stable, nonaggregating microspheres. Mixtures of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and acrolein form homogeneous solutions in distilled water containing 0.4 percent polyethylene oxide (PEO). After deaeration with nitrogen, mixtures irradiated at room temperature with gamma rays from cobalt source; total exposure time 4 hours, at rate of 0.2 milliroentgen per hour. Reaction product centrifuged three times for purification and kept in distilled water.

Particulate matter from both heavy fuel oil and diesel fuel shipping emissions show strong biological effects on human lung cells at realistic and comparable in vitro exposure conditions.

PubMed

Oeder, Sebastian; Kanashova, Tamara; Sippula, Olli; Sapcariu, Sean C; Streibel, Thorsten; Arteaga-Salas, Jose Manuel; Passig, Johannes; Dilger, Marco; Paur, Hanns-Rudolf; Schlager, Christoph; Mülhopt, Sonja; Diabaté, Silvia; Weiss, Carsten; Stengel, Benjamin; Rabe, Rom; Harndorf, Horst; Torvela, Tiina; Jokiniemi, Jorma K; Hirvonen, Maija-Riitta; Schmidt-Weber, Carsten; Traidl-Hoffmann, Claudia; BéruBé, Kelly A; Wlodarczyk, Anna J; Prytherch, Zoë; Michalke, Bernhard; Krebs, Tobias; Prévôt, André S H; Kelbg, Michael; Tiggesbäumker, Josef; Karg, Erwin; Jakobi, Gert; Scholtes, Sorana; Schnelle-Kreis, Jürgen; Lintelmann, Jutta; Matuschek, Georg; Sklorz, Martin; Klingbeil, Sophie; Orasche, Jürgen; Richthammer, Patrick; Müller, Laarnie; Elsasser, Michael; Reda, Ahmed; Gröger, Thomas; Weggler, Benedikt; Schwemer, Theo; Czech, Hendryk; Rüger, Christopher P; Abbaszade, Gülcin; Radischat, Christian; Hiller, Karsten; Buters, Jeroen T M; Dittmar, Gunnar; Zimmermann, Ralf

2015-01-01

Ship engine emissions are important with regard to lung and cardiovascular diseases especially in coastal regions worldwide. Known cellular responses to combustion particles include oxidative stress and inflammatory signalling. To provide a molecular link between the chemical and physical characteristics of ship emission particles and the cellular responses they elicit and to identify potentially harmful fractions in shipping emission aerosols. Through an air-liquid interface exposure system, we exposed human lung cells under realistic in vitro conditions to exhaust fumes from a ship engine running on either common heavy fuel oil (HFO) or cleaner-burning diesel fuel (DF). Advanced chemical analyses of the exhaust aerosols were combined with transcriptional, proteomic and metabolomic profiling including isotope labelling methods to characterise the lung cell responses. The HFO emissions contained high concentrations of toxic compounds such as metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, and were higher in particle mass. These compounds were lower in DF emissions, which in turn had higher concentrations of elemental carbon ("soot"). Common cellular reactions included cellular stress responses and endocytosis. Reactions to HFO emissions were dominated by oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, whereas DF emissions induced generally a broader biological response than HFO emissions and affected essential cellular pathways such as energy metabolism, protein synthesis, and chromatin modification. Despite a lower content of known toxic compounds, combustion particles from the clean shipping fuel DF influenced several essential pathways of lung cell metabolism more strongly than particles from the unrefined fuel HFO. This might be attributable to a higher soot content in DF. Thus the role of diesel soot, which is a known carcinogen in acute air pollution-induced health effects should be further investigated. For the use of HFO and DF we recommend a reduction of carbonaceous soot in the ship emissions by implementation of filtration devices.

Particulate Matter from Both Heavy Fuel Oil and Diesel Fuel Shipping Emissions Show Strong Biological Effects on Human Lung Cells at Realistic and Comparable In Vitro Exposure Conditions

PubMed Central

Dilger, Marco; Paur, Hanns-Rudolf; Schlager, Christoph; Mülhopt, Sonja; Diabaté, Silvia; Weiss, Carsten; Stengel, Benjamin; Rabe, Rom; Harndorf, Horst; Torvela, Tiina; Jokiniemi, Jorma K.; Hirvonen, Maija-Riitta; Schmidt-Weber, Carsten; Traidl-Hoffmann, Claudia; BéruBé, Kelly A.; Wlodarczyk, Anna J.; Prytherch, Zoë; Michalke, Bernhard; Krebs, Tobias; Prévôt, André S. H.; Kelbg, Michael; Tiggesbäumker, Josef; Karg, Erwin; Jakobi, Gert; Scholtes, Sorana; Schnelle-Kreis, Jürgen; Lintelmann, Jutta; Matuschek, Georg; Sklorz, Martin; Klingbeil, Sophie; Orasche, Jürgen; Richthammer, Patrick; Müller, Laarnie; Elsasser, Michael; Reda, Ahmed; Gröger, Thomas; Weggler, Benedikt; Schwemer, Theo; Czech, Hendryk; Rüger, Christopher P.; Abbaszade, Gülcin; Radischat, Christian; Hiller, Karsten; Buters, Jeroen T. M.; Dittmar, Gunnar; Zimmermann, Ralf

2015-01-01

Background Ship engine emissions are important with regard to lung and cardiovascular diseases especially in coastal regions worldwide. Known cellular responses to combustion particles include oxidative stress and inflammatory signalling. Objectives To provide a molecular link between the chemical and physical characteristics of ship emission particles and the cellular responses they elicit and to identify potentially harmful fractions in shipping emission aerosols. Methods Through an air-liquid interface exposure system, we exposed human lung cells under realistic in vitro conditions to exhaust fumes from a ship engine running on either common heavy fuel oil (HFO) or cleaner-burning diesel fuel (DF). Advanced chemical analyses of the exhaust aerosols were combined with transcriptional, proteomic and metabolomic profiling including isotope labelling methods to characterise the lung cell responses. Results The HFO emissions contained high concentrations of toxic compounds such as metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, and were higher in particle mass. These compounds were lower in DF emissions, which in turn had higher concentrations of elemental carbon (“soot”). Common cellular reactions included cellular stress responses and endocytosis. Reactions to HFO emissions were dominated by oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, whereas DF emissions induced generally a broader biological response than HFO emissions and affected essential cellular pathways such as energy metabolism, protein synthesis, and chromatin modification. Conclusions Despite a lower content of known toxic compounds, combustion particles from the clean shipping fuel DF influenced several essential pathways of lung cell metabolism more strongly than particles from the unrefined fuel HFO. This might be attributable to a higher soot content in DF. Thus the role of diesel soot, which is a known carcinogen in acute air pollution-induced health effects should be further investigated. For the use of HFO and DF we recommend a reduction of carbonaceous soot in the ship emissions by implementation of filtration devices. PMID:26039251

Optimizing Ionic Electrolytes for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Xiaojuan; Hall, Sarah

2009-03-01

Dye-sensitized solar cells DSSCs provide next generation, low cost, and easy fabrication photovoltaic devices based on organic sensitizing molecules, polymer gel electrolyte, and metal oxide semiconductors. One of the key components is the solvent-free ionic liquid electrolyte that has low volatility and high stability. We report a rapid and low cost method to fabricate ionic polymer electrolyte used in DSSCs. Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) is blended with imidazolinium salt without any chemical solvent to form a gel electrolyte. Uniform and crack-free porous TiO2 thin films are sensitized by porphrine dye covered by the synthesized gel electrolyte. The fabricated DSSCs are more stable and potentially increase the photo-electricity conversion efficiency.

Multidentate oligomeric ligands to enhance the biocompatibility of iron oxide and other metal nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Wentao; Palui, Goutam; Ji, Xin; Aldeek, Fadi; Mattoussi, Hedi

2014-03-01

We prepared a set of multi-coordinating and reactive amphiphilic polymer ligands and used them for surface-functionalizing magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. The amphiphilic oligomers were prepared by coupling (via one step nucleophilic addition) several dopamine anchoring groups, polyethylene glycol moieties and reactive groups onto a poly(isobutylene-alt-maleic anhydride) chain. The availability of several anchoring groups in the same ligand greatly enhances the ligand affinity to the nanoparticle surfaces, via multiplecoordination, while the hydrophilic and reactive groups promote colloidal stability in buffer media and allow subsequent conjugation to target biomolecules. The hydrophilic nanoparticles capped with these polymers maintain compact size and exhibit great long term colloidal stability.

Degradation mechanisms of cable insulation materials during radiation-thermal ageing in radiation environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seguchi, Tadao; Tamura, Kiyotoshi; Ohshima, Takeshi; Shimada, Akihiko; Kudoh, Hisaaki

2011-02-01

Radiation and thermal degradation of ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR) and crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) as cable insulation materials were investigated by evaluating tensile properties, gel-fraction, and swelling ratio, as well as by the infrared (FTIR) analysis. The activation energy of thermal oxidative degradation changed over the range 100-120 °C for both EPR and XLPE. This may be attributed to the fact that the content of an antioxidant used as the stabilizer for polymers decreases by evaporation during thermal ageing at high temperatures. The analysis of antioxidant content and oxidative products in XLPE as a model sample showed that a small amount of antioxidant significantly reduced the extent of thermal oxidation, but was not effective for radiation induced oxidation. The changes in mechanical properties were well reflected by the degree of oxidation. A new model of polymer degradation mechanisms was proposed where the degradation does not take place by chain reaction via peroxy radical and hydro-peroxide. The role of the antioxidant in the polymer is the reduction of free radical formation in the initiation step in thermal oxidation, and it could not stop radical reactions for either radiation or thermal oxidation.

Simultaneous improvement in ionic conductivity and flexibility of solid polymer electrolytes for thin film lithium ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Jianying

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) provide advantages over liquid electrolytes in terms of safety, reliability, less temperature sensitive, and simplicity of design. With the use of a SPE in lithium batteries, high specific energy and specific power, safe operation, flexibility in packaging, and low cost of fabrication can be expected. However, after 30 years, SPEs have rarely found commercial success due to the low ionic conductivity and/or insufficient mechanical properties, both of which are related to the movement of the polymer chains. Many physical/chemical methods have been exploited to simultaneously create enhancement in ionic conductivity and mechanical properties, and some suggested ways have shown promise. However, the complex strategies have always introduced other challenge issues and incurred extra costs for manufacturing. In such a context, the development of dry solid state electrolytes is the central challenge to be faced worldwide. This thesis deals with the approaches to improving ionic conductivity and mechanical properties simultaneously. The method is to apply two kinds of controllable organic fillers: copolymer and protein. Our work revealed that the commercial available copolymer, poly (ethylene oxide)- block-polyethylene (PEO-b-PE), possesses a capability for enhancing the multiple performances of poly(ethylene oxide)(PEO)-based polymer electrolyte. And the effects of composition and molecular weight of the copolymers on performance of the resulting SPEs were examined. It was found that increasing the PE block percentage in the copolymer resulted in a significant increase in both ionic conductivity and mechanical properties, while increasing the molecular weight of the copolymer resulted in better mechanical properties, and an identical ionic conductivity. A rubber-like, soy protein-based SPE (s-SPE)was obtained by employing soy protein isolate (SPI), a soy product usually used as rigid fillers for enhancing mechanical properties of polymers, blended with poly(ethylene oxide)(PEO). The results indicated that the s-SPE with 55 wt% of SPI possesses a fully amorphous uniform structure having low Tg, in contrast with crystalline PEO-based SPE having discernable Tg and Tm. The conductivity and elasticity are both significantly improved with SPI involvement. Remarkably, this film has been elongated up to 100% without loss of ionic conductivity and 700% without mechanical damage.

Experimental analysis of SiC-based refractory concrete in hybrid rocket nozzles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Elia, Raffaele; Bernhart, Gérard; Hijlkema, Jouke; Cutard, Thierry

2016-09-01

Hybrid propulsion represents a good alternative to the more widely used liquid and solid systems. This technology combines some important specifications of the latters, as the possibility of re-ignition, thrust modulation, a higher specific impulse than solid systems, a greater simplicity and a lower cost than liquid systems. Nevertheless the highly oxidizing environment represents a major problem as regards the thermo-oxidation and ablative behavior of nozzle materials. The main goal of this research is to characterize a silicon carbide based micro-concrete with a maximum aggregates size of 800 μm, in a hybrid propulsion environment. The nozzle throat has to resist to a highly oxidizing polyethylene/nitrous oxide hybrid environment, under temperatures up to 2900 K. Three tests were performed on concrete-based nozzles in HERA Hybrid Rocket Motor (HRM) test bench at ONERA. Pressure chamber evolution and observations before and after tests are used to investigate the ablated surface at nozzle throat. Ablation behavior and crack generation are discussed and some improvements are proposed.

Influence of some packaging materials and of natural tocopherols on the sensory properties of breakfast cereals.

PubMed

Paradiso, Vito M; Caponio, Francesco; Summo, Carmine; Gomes, Tommaso

2014-04-01

The combined effect of natural antioxidants and packaging materials on the quality decay of breakfast cereals during storage was evaluated. Corn flakes were produced on industrial scale, using different packages and adding natural tocopherols to the ingredients, and stored for 1 year. The samples were then submitted to sensory analysis and HS-solid phase microextraction/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (SPME/GC/MS) analysis. The packaging had a significant influence on the sensory profile of the aged product: metallized polypropylene gave the highest levels of oxidation compounds and sensory defects. The sensory profile was improved using polypropylene and especially high-density polyethylene. Natural tocopherols reduced the sensory decay of the flakes and the oxidative evolution of the volatile profile. They gave the most remarkable improvement in polypropylene (either metallized or not) packs. Polypropylene showed a barrier effect on the scalping of volatiles outside of the pack. This led to higher levels of oxidation volatiles and faster rates of the further oxidative processes involving the volatiles.

Dielectric Properties of Generation 3 Pamam Dendrimer Nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ristić, Sanja; Mijović, Jovan

2008-08-01

Broadband dielectric relaxation spectroscopy (DRS) was employed to study molecular dynamics of blends composed of generation 3 poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers with ethylenediamine core and amino surface groups and four linear polymers: poly(propylene oxide)—PPO, two block copolymers, poly(propylene oxide)/poly(ethylene oxide)—PPO/PEO with different mol ratios (29/6 and 10/31) and poly(ethylene oxide)—PEO. The results were generated over a broad range of frequency. Dielectric spectra of dendrimers in PPO matrix reveal slight shift of normal and segmental processes to higher frequency with increasing concentration of dendrimers. In the 29PPO/6PEO matrix, no effect of concentration on the average relaxation time for normal and segmental processes was observed. In the 10PPO/31PEO matrix the relaxation time of the segmental process increases with increasing dendrimer concentration, while in the PEO matrix, local processes in dendrimers slow down. A detailed analysis of the effect of concentration of dendrimers and morphology of polymer matrix on the dielectric properties of dendrimer nanocomposites will be presented.

The 5-year Results of an Oxidized Zirconium Femoral Component for TKA

PubMed Central

Innocenti, Massimo; Carulli, Christian; Matassi, Fabrizio; Villano, Marco

2009-01-01

Osteolysis secondary to polyethylene wear is one of the major factors limiting long-term performance of TKA. Oxidized zirconium is a new material that combines the strength of a metal with the wear properties of a ceramic. It remains unknown whether implants with a zirconium femoral component can be used safely in TKA. To answer that question, we reviewed, at a minimum of 5 years, the clinical outcome and survivorship of a ceramic-surfaced oxidized zirconium femoral component implanted during 98 primary TKAs between April 2001 and December 2003. Survivorship was 98.7% at 7 years postoperatively. No revision was necessary and only one component failed because of aseptic loosening. Mean Knee Society score improved from 36 to 89. No adverse events were observed clinically or radiologically. These results justify pursuing the use of oxidized zirconium as an alternative bearing surface for a femoral component in TKA. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. PMID:19798541

The effect of bearing type on the outcome of total hip arthroplasty.

PubMed

Peters, Rinne M; Van Steenbergen, Liza N; Stevens, Martin; Rijk, Paul C; Bulstra, Sjoerd K; Zijlstra, Wierd P

2018-04-01

Background and purpose - Alternative bearing surfaces such as ceramics and highly crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE) were developed in order to further improve implant performance of total hip arthroplasties (THAs). Whether these alternative bearing surfaces result in increased longevity is subject to debate. Patients and methods - Using the Dutch Arthroplasty Register (LROI), we identified all patients with a primary, non-metal-on-metal THA implanted in the Netherlands in the period 2007-2016 (n = 209,912). Cumulative incidence of revision was calculated to determine differences in survivorship of THAs according to bearing type: metal-on-polyethylene (MoPE), metal-on-HXLPE (MoHXLPE), ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoPE), ceramic-on-HXLPE (CoHXLPE), ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC), and oxidized-zirconium-on-(HXL)polyethylene (Ox(HXL)PE). Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression ratios (HRs) were used for comparisons. Results - After adjustment for confounders, CoHXLPE, CoC, and Ox(HXL)PE resulted in a statistically significantly lower risk of revision compared with MoPE after 9 years follow-up (HR =0.8-0.9 respectively, compared with HR =1.0). For small (22-28 mm) femoral head THAs, lower revision rates were found for CoPE and CoHXLPE (HR =0.9). In the 36 mm femoral head subgroup, CoC-bearing THAs had a lower HR compared with MoHXLPE (HR =0.7 versus 1.0). Crude revision rates in young patients (< 60 years) for CoHXLPE, CoC, and Ox(HXL)PE (HR =0.7) were lower than MoPE (HR =1.0). However, after adjustment for case mix and confounders these differences were not statistically significant. Interpretation - We found a mid-term lower risk of revision for CoHXLPE, CoC, and Ox(HXL)PE bearings compared with traditional MoPE-bearing surfaces.

Confocal Raman spectroscopic analysis of cross-linked ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene for application in artificial hip joints.

PubMed

Pezzotti, Giuseppe; Kumakura, Tsuyoshi; Yamada, Kiyotaka; Tateiwa, Toshiyuki; Puppulin, Leonardo; Zhu, Wenliang; Yamamoto, Kengo

2007-01-01

Confocal spectroscopic techniques are applied to selected Raman bands to study the microscopic features of acetabular cups made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) before and after implantation in vivo. The micrometric lateral resolution of a laser beam focused on the polymeric surface (or subsurface) enables a highly resolved visualization of 2-D conformational population patterns, including crystalline, amorphous, orthorhombic phase fractions, and oxidation index. An optimized confocal probe configuration, aided by a computational deconvolution of the optical probe, allows minimization of the probe size along the in-depth direction and a nondestructive evaluation of microstructural properties along the material subsurface. Computational deconvolution is also attempted, based on an experimental assessment of the probe response function of the polyethylene Raman spectrum, according to a defocusing technique. A statistical set of high-resolution microstructural data are collected on a fully 3-D level on gamma-ray irradiated UHMWPE acetabular cups both as-received from the maker and after retrieval from a human body. Microstructural properties reveal significant gradients along the immediate material subsurface and distinct differences are found due to the loading history in vivo, which cannot be revealed by conventional optical spectroscopy. The applicability of the confocal spectroscopic technique is valid beyond the particular retrieval cases examined in this study, and can be easily extended to evaluate in-vitro tested components or to quality control of new polyethylene brands. Confocal Raman spectroscopy may also contribute to rationalize the complex effects of gamma-ray irradiation on the surface of medical grade UHMWPE for total joint replacement and, ultimately, to predict their actual lifetime in vivo.

Poly(ethylene oxide)-co-poly(propylene oxide)-based gel electrolyte with high ionic conductivity and mechanical integrity for lithium-ion batteries.

PubMed

Wang, Shih-Hong; Hou, Sheng-Shu; Kuo, Ping-Lin; Teng, Hsisheng

2013-09-11

Using gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) for lithium-ion batteries usually encounters the drawback of poor mechanical integrity of the GPEs. This study demonstrates the outstanding performance of a GPE consisting of a commercial membrane (Celgard) incorporated with a poly(ethylene oxide)-co-poly(propylene oxide) copolymer (P(EO-co-PO)) swelled by a liquid electrolyte (LE) of 1 M LiPF6 in carbonate solvents. The proposed GPE stably holds LE with an amount that is three times that of the Celgard-P(EO-co-PO) composite. This GPE has a higher ionic conductivity (2.8×10(-3) and 5.1×10(-4) S cm(-1) at 30 and -20 °C, respectively) and a wider electrochemical voltage range (5.1 V) than the LE-swelled Celgard because of the strong ion-solvation power of P(EO-co-PO). The active ion-solvation role of P(EO-co-PO) also suppresses the formation of the solid-electrolyte interphase layer. When assembling the GPE in a Li/LiFePO4 battery, the P(EO-co-PO) network hinders anionic transport, producing a high Li+ transference number of 0.5 and decreased the polarization overpotential. The Li/GPE/LiFePO4 battery delivers a discharge capacity of 156-135 mAh g(-1) between 0.1 and 1 C-rates, which is approximately 5% higher than that of the Li/LE/LiFePO4 battery. The IR drop of the Li/GPE/LiFePO4 battery was 44% smaller than that of the Li/LE/LiFePO4. The Li/GPE/LiFePO4 battery is more stable, with only a 1.2% capacity decay for 150 galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles. The advantages of the proposed GPE are its high stability, conductivity, Li+ transference number, and mechanical integrity, which allow for the assembly of GPE-based batteries readily scalable to industrial levels.

Study of the pluronic-silica interaction in synthesis of mesoporous silica under mild acidic conditions.

PubMed

Sundblom, Andreas; Palmqvist, Anders E C; Holmberg, Krister

2010-02-02

The interaction between silica and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) in water may appear trivial and it is generally stated that hydrogen bonding is responsible for the attraction. However, a literature search shows that there is not a consensus with respect to the mechanism behind the attractive interaction. Several papers claim that only hydrogen bonding is not sufficient to explain the binding. The silica-PEO interaction is interesting from an academic perspective and it is also exploited in the preparation of mesoporous silica, a material of considerable current interest. This study concerns the very early stage of synthesis of mesoporous silica under mild acidic conditions, pH 2-5, and the aim is to shed light on the interaction between silica and the PEO-containing structure directing agent. The synthesis comprises two steps. An organic silica source, tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS), is first hydrolyzed and Pluronic P123, a poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) block copolymer, is subsequently added at different time periods following the hydrolysis of TEOS. It is shown that the interaction between the silica and the Pluronic is dependent both on the temperature and on the time between onset of TEOS hydrolysis and addition of the copolymer. The results show that the interaction is mainly driven by entropy. The effect of the synthesis temperature and of the time between hydrolysis and addition of the copolymer on the final material is also studied. The material with the highest degree of mesoorder was obtained when the reaction was performed at 20 degrees C and the copolymer was added 40 h after the start of TEOS hydrolysis. It is claimed that the reason for the good ordering of the silica is that whereas particle formation under these conditions is fast, the rate of silica condensation is relatively low.

Nonfouling Characteristics of Dextran-Containing Surfaces

PubMed Central

Martwiset, Surangkhana; Koh, Anna E.; Chen, Wei

2008-01-01

Hydroxyl groups in dextrans have been selectively oxidized to aldehyde groups by sodium periodate in a controlled fashion with percentage of conversion ranging from 6% to 100%. Dextrans (10 k, 70 k, 148 k, 500 k, and 2 000 kDa) and oxidized 10 k dextrans have been successfully grafted to functionalized silicon surfaces. The effect of molecular weight on protein adsorption is not nearly as striking as that of the extent of oxidation. When ∼ 25% of the hydroxyl groups have been converted to aldehyde groups, there is negligible protein adsorption on surfaces containing the oxidized polysaccharides. Conformations of grafted polymers depend strongly on their chemical structures, i.e. the relative amounts of –OH and –CHO groups. That the dependence of the chain conformation as well as the protein resistance on the balance of the hydrogen bond donors (-OH) and the acceptors (-OH and –CHO) implies the importance of chemical structure of surface molecules, specifically the interactions between surface and surrounding water molecules on protein adsorption. Oxidized dextrans are potential poly(ethylene glycol)-alternatives for nonfouling applications. PMID:16952261

A Study of the Drag Characteristics and Polymer Diffusion in the Boundary Layer of an Axisymmetric Body

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-03-12

Reduction in Pipe Flow at R =14xl03 (from Hoyt (1972)) Guar Gum Karaya Polyox WSR 301 400 850 10 Polyacrylamide, Polyhall-250 20 21 ■.I...shown to be effec- tive drag reducers. Polysaccharides ( Guar ), polyethylene oxide, polyacrylamides, and sodium carboxymethyl...sifting the premeasured polyox powder onto the surface of the carefully weighed water which was being slowly stirred by a magnetic mixing bar. After a

Polyaniline-based optical ammonia detector

DOEpatents

Duan, Yixiang; Jin, Zhe; Su, Yongxuan

2002-01-01

Electronic absorption spectroscopy of a polyaniline film deposited on a polyethylene surface by chemical oxidation of aniline monomer at room temperature was used to quantitatively detect ammonia gas. The present optical ammonia gas detector was found to have a response time of less than 15 s, a regeneration time of less than 2 min. at room temperature, and a detection limit of 1 ppm (v/v) for ammonia, with a linear dynamic range from 180 ppm to 18,000 ppm.

Approximation of Viscoelastic Stresses from Newtonian Turbulent Kinematics

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-09-01

birefringence of polyethylene oxide solutions in a four roll mill. J.Poly.Sci.:Poly.Phys.Ed. 14, 1111-1119. Dandridge, A., Meeten , G.H., Layec-Raphalen, M.N...flows. Poly. Comm. 25, 144-146. Metzner, A.B., & Astarita, G . 1967 External flow of viscoelastic materials: fluid property restrictions on the use of...dumbbell model for dilute solutions. Rheol.Acta 23, 151-162. Philippoff, W. 1956 Flow-birefringence and stress. Nature 178 , 811-812. Ryskin, G . 1987a

A Polyamine Oxidizing Enzyme as a Drug to Treat Breast Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-07-01

is a viable anticancer therapy. BODY TASK 1. Prepare enough of two polyethylene glycol(PEG)-derivatives of bovine serum amine oxidase (SAO...interfere with its PEGylation and/or obscure the outcome of experiments to test the treatment as an anticancer therapy. Hence, another few weeks were...attached polysaccharide , thus, minimize interference with or mimicking of the mouse’s own SAO. A small amount of bovine SAO was PEGylated at pH 7.4 with

Fluorescence Properties of Dansyl Groups Covalently Bonded to the Surface of Oxidatively Functionalized Low-Density Polyethylene Film.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-12-01

Weissberger, A.; Rossiter, B. W., Eds.; Wiley-Interscience: New York, 1972; p 575. *16) This value is based on studies of self-assembled Langmuir - Blodgett ... liquids . The Dansyl group was chosen because its fluorescence emission maximum and quantum yield are sensitive to the polarity and acidity of the local...environment. The wavelength of maximum fluorescence depended only weakly on the character of the contacting liquid phase; the difference between

Insight into fast ion migration kinetics of a new hybrid single Li-ion conductor based on aluminate complexes for solid-state Li-ion batteries.

PubMed

Feng, Yancong; Tan, Rui; Zhao, Yan; Gao, Rongtan; Yang, Luyi; Yang, Jinlong; Li, Hao; Zhou, Guofu; Chen, Haibiao; Pan, Feng

2018-03-29

A novel hybrid single Li-ion conductor (SLIC) for a Li-ion solid electrolyte was prepared by mixing aluminate complexes-polyethylene glycol (LiAl-PEG) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) for solid-state Li-ion batteries. The LiAl-PEG/PEO blend possesses high thermal stability and electrochemical stability with an oxidation decomposition voltage up to 4.8 V. Notably, this hybrid SLIC exhibits not only excellent Li-ion migration kinetics, but also good ionic conductivity as high as 4.0 × 10-5 and 2.6 × 10-4 S cm-1 at 30 and 100 °C, respectively, which is much higher than previously reported SLICs. Importantly, by the combination of molecular dynamics simulations and experiment measurements, the mechanisms of Li-ion migration across the SLIC (LiAl-PEG), the salt-in-polymer (LiClO4/PEO) and the optimized SLIC (LiAl-PEG/PEO) were systematically investigated for the first time. The new hopping transport mechanism was verified for the SLIC system at the nanoscale. As for the hybrid SLIC, PEO chains enhance the segmental mobility of the ether-chains bonded with Al atoms, improve the ionicity, and provide extra ionic paths for Li transfer, resulting in the optimized Li-ion migration kinetics of LiAl-PEG/PEO.

Preparation of Pure and Stable Chitosan Nanofibers by Electrospinning in the Presence of Poly(ethylene oxide)

PubMed Central

Mengistu Lemma, Solomon; Bossard, Frédéric; Rinaudo, Marguerite

2016-01-01

Electrospinning was employed to obtain chitosan nanofibers from blends of chitosans (CS) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO). Blends of chitosan (MW (weight-average molecular weight) = 102 kg/mol) and PEO (M (molecular weight) = 1000 kg/mol) were selected to optimize the electrospinning process parameters. The PEO powder was solubilized into chitosan solution at different weight ratios in 0.5 M acetic acid. The physicochemical changes of the nanofibers were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), swelling capacity, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. For stabilization, the produced nanofibers were neutralized with K2CO3 in water or 70% ethanol/30% water as solvent. Subsequently, repeated washings with pure water were performed to extract PEO, potassium acetate and carbonate salts formed in the course of chitosan nanofiber purification. The increase of PEO content in the blend from 20 to 40 w% exhibited bead-free fibers with average diameters 85 ± 19 and 147 ± 28 nm, respectively. Their NMR analysis proved that PEO and the salts were nearly completely removed from the nanostructure of chitosan, demonstrating that the adopted strategy is successful for producing pure chitosan nanofibers. In addition, the nanofibers obtained after neutralization in ethanol-aqueous solution has better structural stability, at least for six months in aqueous solutions (phosphate buffer (PBS) or water). PMID:27792192

Poly(ethylene oxide)-Assisted Macromolecular Self-Assembly of Lignin in ABS Matrix for Sustainable Composite Applications

DOE PAGES

Akato, Kokouvi M.; Tran, Chau D.; Chen, Jihua; ...

2015-11-05

Here we report the compatibilization of biomass-derived lignin polymer in acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) thermoplastic matrix without loss of mechanical properties via poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-mediated macromolecular self-assembly. ABS was blended with lignin in different concentrations, and blends with 10 wt % PEO (relative to lignin) were prepared. The relative tensile strength improved slightly at low lignin content but diminished rapidly as the lignin content was increased. However, the inclusion of PEO as an interfacial adhesion promoter helped avoid deleterious effects. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed that PEO plasticized the hard phase and thus lowered the activation energy (E a) for itsmore » relaxation but caused stiffening of the soft phase and increased its E a. Microscopy revealed that incorporating lignin in ABS led to the statistical dispersion of discrete lignin domains (300–1000 nm) which, after PEO addition, were reduced to smaller interconnected particles (200–500 nm). The lignin-extended partially renewable ABS resins showed shear-thinning behavior and reduced viscosity compared to neat ABS. The preferred lignin-loaded compositions reinforced with 20 vol % chopped carbon fibers exhibited mechanical performances (77–80 MPa) equivalent to those of reinforced ABS materials reportedly used in 3D printing applications. In conclusion, this approach could lower the cost of ABS while reducing its carbon footprint.« less

Adsorption energies of poly(ethylene oxide)-based surfactants and nanoparticles on an air-water surface.

PubMed

Zell, Zachary A; Isa, Lucio; Ilg, Patrick; Leal, L Gary; Squires, Todd M

2014-01-14

The self-assembly of polymer-based surfactants and nanoparticles on fluid-fluid interfaces is central to many applications, including dispersion stabilization, creation of novel 2D materials, and surface patterning. Very often these processes involve compressing interfacial monolayers of particles or polymers to obtain a desired material microstructure. At high surface pressures, however, even highly interfacially active objects can desorb from the interface. Methods of directly measuring the energy which keeps the polymer or particles bound to the interface (adsorption/desorption energies) are therefore of high interest for these processes. Moreover, though a geometric description linking adsorption energy and wetting properties through the definition of a contact angle can be established for rigid nano- or microparticles, such a description breaks down for deformable or aggregating objects. Here, we demonstrate a technique to quantify desorption energies directly, by comparing surface pressure-density compression measurements using a Wilhelmy plate and a custom-microfabricated deflection tensiometer. We focus on poly(ethylene oxide)-based polymers and nanoparticles. For PEO-based homo- and copolymers, the adsorption energy of PEO chains scales linearly with molecular weight and can be tuned by changing the subphase composition. Moreover, the desorption surface pressure of PEO-stabilized nanoparticles corresponds to the saturation surface pressure for spontaneously adsorbed monolayers, yielding trapping energies of ∼10(3) k(B)T.

Characterization of DNA condensates induced by poly(ethylene oxide) and polylysine.

PubMed Central

Laemmli, U K

1975-01-01

High-molecular-weight DNA is known to collapse into very compact particles in a salt solution containing polymers like poly(ethylene oxide) [(EO)n] or polyacrylate. The biological relevance of this phenomenon is suggested by our recent finding that high concentrations of the highly acidic internal peptides found in the mature T4 bacteriophage head, as well as poly(glutamic acid) and poly(aspartic acid), can collapse DNA in a similar manner. The structure of DNAs collapsed by various methods has been studied with electron microscope. We find (EO)n collapses T4 or T7 bacteriophage DNA into compact particles only slightly larger than the size of the T4 and T7 head, respectively. In contrast, polylysine collapses DNA into different types of structures. Double-stranded DNA collapsed with (EO)n is cut by the single-strand specific Neurospora crassa endonuclease (EC 3.1.4.21) into small fragments. Extensive digestion only occurs above the critical concentration of polymer required for DNA collapse, demonstrating the (EO)n-collapsed DNA contains enzyme-vulnerable regions (probably at each fold), which are preferentially attacked. The size of the DNA fragments produced by limit-digestion with the nuclease ranges between 200 and 400 base pairs when DNA is collapsed by (EO)n. Only fragments of DNA which are larger than 600 base pairs are cut by the endonuclease in (EO)n-containing solution. Images PMID:1060108

Enhanced Thermal Conductivity and Dielectric Properties of Iron Oxide/Polyethylene Nanocomposites Induced by a Magnetic Field.

PubMed

Chi, Qingguo; Ma, Tao; Dong, Jiufeng; Cui, Yang; Zhang, Yue; Zhang, Changhai; Xu, Shichong; Wang, Xuan; Lei, Qingquan

2017-06-08

Iron Oxide (Fe 3 O 4 ) nanoparticles were deposited on the surface of low density polyethylene (LDPE) particles by solvothermal method. A magnetic field was introduced to the preparation of Fe 3 O 4 /LDPE composites, and the influences of the magnetic field on thermal conductivity and dielectric properties of composites were investigated systematically. The Fe 3 O 4 /LDPE composites treated by a vertical direction magnetic field exhibited a high thermal conductivity and a large dielectric constant at low filler loading. The enhancement of thermal conductivity and dielectric constant is attributed to the formation of the conductive chains of Fe 3 O 4 in LDPE matrix under the action of the magnetic field, which can effectively enhance the heat flux and interfacial polarization of the Fe 3 O 4 /LDPE composites. Moreover, the relatively low dielectric loss and low conductivity achieved are attributed to the low volume fraction of fillers and excellent compatibility between Fe 3 O 4 and LDPE. Of particular note is the dielectric properties of Fe 3 O 4 /LDPE composites induced by the magnetic field also retain good stability across a wide temperature range, and this contributes to the stability and lifespan of polymer capacitors. All the above-mentioned properties along with the simplicity and scalability of the preparation for the polymer nanocomposites make them promising for the electronics industry.

Self-organization of poly(ethylene oxide) on the surface of aqueous salt solutions.

PubMed

Fuchs, Christian; Hussain, Hazrat; Amado, Elkin; Busse, Karsten; Kressler, Joerg

2015-01-01

It is demonstrated that stable Langmuir films of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) can be formed up to surface pressures of 30 mN m(-1) when potassium carbonate K2CO3 is added to the aqueous subphase. Generally, PEO homopolymer cannot stay on the water surface at a surface pressure ≥10 mN m(-1) due to its high water solubility. To prepare stable monolayer films, PEO can be modified with hydrophobic moieties. However, by exploiting the salting out effect by adding certain salts (K2CO3 or MgSO4) into the aqueous subphase, not only very stable films but also unusual self-organization can be achieved by the PEO homopolymer on the surface of the aqueous solution. Thus, a series of OH-terminated PEOs is found to form a stable monolayer at K2CO3 concentrations of 2 M and above in the aqueous subphase, and the stability of the film increases with an increase in K2CO3 concentration. Hysteresis experiments are also carried out. During the phase transition induced by progressive compression, self-organization into well-defined domains with sizes in the micrometer range are observed, and with further compression and holding of the film for 30 min and above the microdomains transform into a crystalline morphology as visualized by Brewster angle microscopy. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Synthesis and Property of Ag(NP)/catechin/Gelatin Nanofiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nasir, Muhamad; Apriani, Dita

2017-12-01

Nanomaterial play important role future industry such as for the medical, food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry. Ag (NP) and catechin exhibit antibacterial property. Ag(NP) with diameter around 15 nm was synthesis by microwaved method. We have successfully produce Ag(NP)/catechin/gelatin nanofiber composite by electrospinning process. Ag(NP)/catechin/gelatin nanofiber was synthesized by using gelatin from tuna fish, polyethylene oxide (PEO), acetic acid as solvent and silver nanoparticle(NP)/catechin as bioactive component, respectively. Morphology and structure of bioactive catechin-gelatin nanofiber were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), respectively. SEM analysis showed that morphology of nanofiber composite was smooth and had average diameter 398.97 nm. FTIR analysis results were used to confirm structure of catechin-gelatin nanofiber. It was confirmed by FTIR that specific vibration band peak amide A (N-H) at 3286,209 cm-1, amide B (N-H) 3069,396 cm-1, amide I (C=O) at 1643,813 cm-1, amide II (N-H and CN) at 1538,949 cm-1, amide III (C-N) at 1276,789 cm-1, C-O-C from polyethylene oxide at 1146,418 cm-1, respectively. When examined to S. Aureus bacteria, Ag/catechin/gelatin nanofiber show inhabitation performance around 40.44%. Ag(NP)/catechin/gelatin nanofiber has potential application antibacterial medical application.

Acceleration of Crystal Growth of Amorphous Griseofulvin by Low-Concentration Poly(ethylene oxide): Aspects of Crystallization Kinetics and Molecular Mobility.

PubMed

Shi, Qin; Zhang, Chen; Su, Yuan; Zhang, Jie; Zhou, Dongshan; Cai, Ting

2017-07-03

This study aims to investigate the crystallization behavior and molecular dynamics of amorphous griseofulvin (GSF) in the presence of low-concentration poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO). We observe that the addition of 3% w/w PEO remarkably increases the crystal growth rate of GSF by two orders of magnitude in both the supercooled liquid and glassy states. The liquid dynamics of amorphous GSF in the presence and absence of PEO are characterized by dielectric spectroscopy. With an increase of the PEO content, the α-relaxation times of the systems decrease, indicating the increase of global molecular mobility. The couplings between molecular mobility and crystallization kinetics of GSF systems show strong time-dependences below T g . The overlapping of α-relaxation times of GSF in presence and absence of PEO as a function of T g /T suggest the "plasticization" effect of PEO additives. However, the crystallization kinetics of amorphous GSF containing low-concentration PEO do not overlap with those of pure GSF on a T g /T scale. The remarkable accelerating effect of crystal growth of amorphous GSF by low-concentration PEO can be partially attributed to the increase of global mobility. The high segmental mobility of PEO is expected to strongly affect the crystal growth rates of GSF. These findings are relevant for understanding and predicting the physical stability of amorphous pharmaceutical solid dispersions.

Boiling characteristics of dilute polymer solutions and implications for the suppression of vapor explosions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bang, K.H.; Kim, M.H.

Quenching experiments of hot solid spheres in dilute aqueous solutions of polyethylene oxide polymer have been conducted for the purpose of investigating the physical mechanisms of the suppression of vapor explosions in this polymer solutions. Two spheres of 22.2mm and 9.5mm-diameter were tested in the polymer solutions of various concentrations at 30{degrees}C. Minimum film boiling temperature ({Delta}T{sub MFB}) in this highly-subcooled liquid rapidly decreased from over 700{degrees}c for pure water to about 150{degrees}C as the polymer concentration was increased up to 300ppm for 22.2mm sphere, and it decreased to 350{degrees}C for 9.5mm sphere. This rapid reduction of minimum film boilingmore » temperature in the PEO aqueous solutions can explain its ability of the suppression of spontaneous vapor explosions. The ability of suppression of vapor explosions by dilute polyethylene oxide solutions against an external trigger pressure was tested by dropping molten tin into the polymer solutions at 25{degrees}C. It was observed that in 50ppm solutions more mass fragmented than in pure water, but produced weaker explosion pressures. The explosion was completely suppressed in 300ppm solutions with the external trigger. The debris size distributions of fine fragments smaller than 0.7mm were shown almost identical regardless of the polymer concentrations.« less

Organic-inorganic random copolymers from methacrylate-terminated poly(ethylene oxide) with 3-methacryloxypropylheptaphenyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane: synthesis via RAFT polymerization and self-assembly behavior.

PubMed

Wei, Kun; Li, Lei; Zheng, Sixun; Wang, Ge; Liang, Qi

2014-01-14

In this contribution, we report the synthesis of organic-inorganic random polymers from methacrylate-terminated poly(ethylene oxide) (MAPEO) (Mn = 950) and 3-methacryloxypropylheptaphenyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (MAPOSS) macromers via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization with 4-cyano-4-(thiobenzoylthio) valeric acid (CTBTVA) as the chain transfer agent. The organic-inorganic random copolymers were characterized by means of (1)H NMR spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results of GPC indicate that the polymerizations were carried out in a controlled fashion. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that the organic-inorganic random copolymers in bulk were microphase-separated and the POSS microdomains were formed via POSS-POSS interactions. In aqueous solutions the organic-inorganic random copolymers were capable of self-assembling into spherical nanoobjects as evidenced by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic laser scattering (DLS). The self-assembly behavior of the organic-inorganic random copolymers was also found to occur in the mixtures with the precursors of epoxy. The nanostructures were further fixed via subsequent curing reaction and thus the organic-inorganic nanocomposites were obtained. The formation of nanophases in epoxy thermosets was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA). The organic-inorganic nanocomposites displayed the enhanced surface hydrophobicity as evidenced by surface contact angle measurements.

Molecular dynamics simulation of polymer electrolytes based on poly(ethylene oxide) and ionic liquids. I. Structural properties.

PubMed

Costa, Luciano T; Ribeiro, Mauro C C

2006-05-14

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have been performed for prototype models of polymer electrolytes in which the salt is an ionic liquid based on 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium cations and the polymer is poly(ethylene oxide), PEO. The MD simulations were performed by combining the previously proposed models for pure ionic liquids and polymer electrolytes containing simple inorganic ions. A systematic investigation of ionic liquid concentration, temperature, and the 1-alkyl- chain length, [1,3-dimethylimidazolium]PF6, and [1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium]PF6, effects on resulting equilibrium structure is provided. It is shown that the ionic liquid is dispersed in the polymeric matrix, but ionic pairs remain in the polymer electrolyte. Imidazolium cations are coordinated by both the anions and the oxygen atoms of PEO chains. Probability density maps of occurrences of nearest neighbors around imidazolium cations give a detailed physical picture of the environment experienced by cations. Conformational changes on PEO chains upon addition of the ionic liquid are identified. The equilibrium structure of simulated systems is also analyzed in reciprocal space by using the static structure factor, S(k). Calculated S(k) display a low wave-vector peak, indicating that spatial correlation in an extended-range order prevail in the ionic liquid polymer electrolytes. Long-range correlations are assigned to nonuniform distribution of ionic species within the simulation box.

Dielectric and mechanical investigations on the hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of polyethylene oxide modified on a silicon surface

DOE PAGES

Shang, Jing; Hong, Kunlun; Wang, Tao; ...

2016-10-02

Here, polyethylene oxide (PEO) has been widely used in biomedical fields. The antibiofouling property of the PEO-modified surface has been extensively investigated but is far from being fully understood. A series of PEOs with narrowly distributed molecular weight (M w), synthesized with the technique of high vacuum anionic polymerization, have been successfully grafted onto the surface of silicon wafers. The power-law relationship between the thickness of the monolayer versus the M w of the grafted PEO shows a scaling of 0.3, indicating compact condensing of the chains. The static contact angles show higher hydrophobicity for the layer of PEO withmore » higher M w, which can be attributed to the closely packed conformation of the chains with high density. The frequency shift of the contact resonance indicates that the Young’s modulus decreases and the loss factor increases with the increase in the M w of PEO and the thickness of the PEO layers. Dielectric spectroscopy of bare or PEO-grafted wafers in the aqueous solutions reveals an interfacial polarization, which results from compositional and structural changes in the interface layer and depends on temperatures and salt concentrations. At a given grafting density, the PEO chains are swollen in pure water, demonstrating hydrophilic behavior, whereas they collapse in salt solutions, showing hydrophobic characteristics.« less

Antibacterial electrospun chitosan-polyethylene oxide nanocomposite mats containing ZIF-8 nanoparticles.

PubMed

Kohsari, Iraj; Shariatinia, Zahra; Pourmortazavi, Seied Mahdi

2016-10-01

Antimicrobial chitosan-polyethylene oxide (CS-PEO) nanofiber mats loaded with 3, 5 and 10% (w/w) of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 nanoparticles (ZIF-8 NPs, ∼60nm diameter) were developed by electrospinning technique. The CS-PEO-GA-3% ZIF-8 NPs crosslinked with glutaraldehyde (GA) vapor was also prepared. The electrospun mats were characterized by various analysis including FE-SEM, EDAX, elemental mapping, FT-IR, contact angle, TGA/DSC as well as tensile strength analysis. The nanofibers had average diameters within the range ∼70-120nm. Antimicrobial activities of the CS-PEO and CS-PEO-3% ZIF-8 mats were evaluated by the viable cell-counting method for determining their effectiveness in reducing or halting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria so that the CS-PEO mat containing 3% ZIF-8 revealed 100% bactericidal activity against both kinds of bacteria. The crosslinked CS-PEO-GA-3% ZIF-8 NPs sample was less thermally stable but more hydrophilic than its related non-crosslinked mat reflecting there was no need to crosslink the fibers using a chemical crosslinker having adverse effects. The highest hydrophobicity and appropriate thermal and tensile properties of CS-PEO-3% ZIF-8 NPs among those of the mats including 5 and 10% ZIF-8 NPs suggested that the mentioned mat is the most suitable sample for food coating applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Gallic acid loaded PEO-core/zein-shell nanofibers for chemopreventive action on gallbladder cancer cells.

PubMed

Acevedo, Francisca; Hermosilla, Jeyson; Sanhueza, Claudia; Mora-Lagos, Barbara; Fuentes, Irma; Rubilar, Mónica; Concheiro, Angel; Alvarez-Lorenzo, Carmen

2018-07-01

Coaxial electrospinning was used to develop gallic acid (GA) loaded poly(ethylene oxide)/zein nanofibers in order to improve its chemopreventive action on human gallbladder cancer cells. Using a Plackett-Burman design, the effects of poly(ethylene oxide) and zein concentration and applied voltage on the diameter and morphology index of nanofibers were investigated. Coaxial nanofibers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). GA loading efficiency as high as 77% was obtained under optimal process conditions. The coaxial nanofibers controlled GA release in acid and neutral pH medium. Cytotoxicity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production on gallbladder cancer cell lines GB-d1 and NOZ in the presence of GA-nanofibers were assessed. GA-nanofibers triggered an increase in the cellular cytotoxicity compared with free GA on GB-d1 and NOZ cells. Statistically significant differences were found in ROS levels of GA-nanofibers compared with free GA on NOZ cells. Differently, ROS production on GB-d1 cell line was similar. Based on these results, the coaxial nanofibers obtained in this study under optimized operational conditions offer an alternative for the development of a GA release system with improved chemopreventive action on gallbladder cancer cells. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

High Ionic Conductivity of Composite Solid Polymer Electrolyte via In Situ Synthesis of Monodispersed SiO2 Nanospheres in Poly(ethylene oxide).

PubMed

Lin, Dingchang; Liu, Wei; Liu, Yayuan; Lee, Hye Ryoung; Hsu, Po-Chun; Liu, Kai; Cui, Yi

2016-01-13

High ionic conductivity solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) has long been desired for the next generation high energy and safe rechargeable lithium batteries. Among all of the SPEs, composite polymer electrolyte (CPE) with ceramic fillers has garnered great interest due to the enhancement of ionic conductivity. However, the high degree of polymer crystallinity, agglomeration of ceramic fillers, and weak polymer-ceramic interaction limit the further improvement of ionic conductivity. Different from the existing methods of blending preformed ceramic particles with polymers, here we introduce an in situ synthesis of ceramic filler particles in polymer electrolyte. Much stronger chemical/mechanical interactions between monodispersed 12 nm diameter SiO2 nanospheres and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) chains were produced by in situ hydrolysis, which significantly suppresses the crystallization of PEO and thus facilitates polymer segmental motion for ionic conduction. In addition, an improved degree of LiClO4 dissociation can also be achieved. All of these lead to good ionic conductivity (1.2 × 10(-3) S cm(-1) at 60 °C, 4.4 × 10(-5) S cm(-1) at 30 °C). At the same time, largely extended electrochemical stability window up to 5.5 V can be observed. We further demonstrated all-solid-state lithium batteries showing excellent rate capability as well as good cycling performance.

Accelerated aging studies of UHMWPE. I. Effect of resin, processing, and radiation environment on resistance to mechanical degradation.

PubMed

Edidin, A A; Herr, M P; Villarraga, M L; Muth, J; Yau, S S; Kurtz, S M

2002-08-01

The resin and processing route have been identified as potential variables influencing the mechanical behavior, and hence the clinical performance, of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) orthopedic components. Researchers have reported that components fabricated from 1900 resin may oxidize to a lesser extent than components fabricated from GUR resin during shelf aging after gamma sterilization in air. Conflicting reports on the oxidation resistance for 1900 raise the question of whether resin or manufacturing method, or an interaction between resin and manufacturing method, influences the mechanical behavior of UHMWPE. We conducted a series of accelerated aging studies (no aging, aging in oxygen or in nitrogen) to systematically examine the influence of resin (GUR or 1900), manufacturing method (bulk compression molding or extrusion), and sterilization method (none, in air, or in nitrogen) on the mechanical behavior of UHMWPE. The small punch testing technique was used to evaluate the mechanical behavior of the materials, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to characterize the oxidation in selected samples. Our study showed that the sterilization environment, aging condition, and specimen location (surface or subsurface) significantly affected the mechanical behavior of UHMWPE. Each of the three polyethylenes evaluated seem to degrade according to a similar pathway after artificial aging in oxygen and gamma irradiation in air. The initial ability of the materials to exhibit post-yield strain hardening was significantly compromised by degradation. In general, there were only minor differences in the aging behavior of molded and extruded GUR 1050, whereas the molded 1900 material seemed to degrade slightly faster than either of the 1050 materials. Copyright 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Synthesis and dose interval dependent hepatotoxicity evaluation of intravenously administered polyethylene glycol-8000 coated ultra-small superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle on Wistar rats.

PubMed

Rajan, Balan; Sathish, Shanmugam; Balakumar, Subramanian; Devaki, Thiruvengadam

2015-03-01

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles are being used in medical imaging, drug delivery, cancer therapy, and so on. However, there is a direct need to identify any nanotoxicity associated with these nanoparticles. However uncommon, drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a major health concern that challenges pharmaceutical industry and drug regulatory agencies alike. In this study we have synthesized and evaluated the dose interval dependent hepatotoxicity of polyethylene glycol-8000 coated ultra-small superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (PUSPIOs). To assess the hepatotoxicity of intravenously injected PUSPIOs, alterations in basic clinical parameters, hematological parameters, hemolysis assay, serum levels of liver marker enzymes, serum and liver lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels, enzymatic antioxidant levels, and finally histology of liver, kidney, spleen, lung, brain, and heart tissues were studied in control and experimental Wistar rat groups over a 30-day period. The results of our study showed a significant increase in the aspartate transaminase (AST) enzyme activity at a dose of 10mg/kg b.w. PUSPIOs twice a week. Besides, alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (γGT) enzyme activity showed a slender increase when compared with control experimental groups. A significant increase in the serum and liver LPO levels at a dose of 10mg/kg b.w. PUSPIOs twice a week was also observed. Histological analyses of liver, kidney, spleen, lung, brain and heart tissue samples showed no obvious uncharacteristic changes. In conclusion, PUSPIOs were found to posses excellent biocompatibility and Wistar rats showed much better drug tolerance to the dose of 10mg/kg b.w. per week than the dose of 10mg/kg b.w. twice a week for the period of 30 days. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

High-resolution Kendrick Mass Defect Analysis of Poly(ethylene oxide)-based Non-ionic Surfactants and Their Degradation Products.

PubMed

Fouquet, Thierry; Shimada, Haruo; Maeno, Katsuyuki; Ito, Kanako; Ozeki, Yuka; Kitagawa, Shinya; Ohtani, Hajime; Sato, Hiroaki

2017-09-01

Matrix assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and the recently introduced high-resolution Kendrick mass defect (HRKMD) analysis are combined to thoroughly characterize non-ionic surfactants made of a poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) core capped by esters of fatty acids. A PEO monostearate surfactant is first analyzed as a proof of principle of the HRKMD analysis conducted with a fraction of EO as the base unit (EO/X with X being an integer) in lieu of EO for a regular KMD analysis. Data visualization is greatly enhanced and the distributions detected in the MALDI mass spectrum are assigned to a pristine (H, OH)-PEO as well as mono- and di-esterified PEO chains with palmitate and stearate end-groups in HRKMD plots computed with EO/45. The MALDI-HRMS/HRKMD analysis is then successfully applied to the more complex case of ethoxylated hydrogenated castor oil (EHCO) found to contain a large number of hydrogenated ricinoleate moieties (up to 14) in its HRKMD plot computed with EO/43, departing from the expected triglyceride structure. The exhaustiveness of the MALDI-HRMS/HRKMD strategy is validated by comparing the so-obtained fingerprints with results from alternative techniques (electrospray ionization MS, size exclusion and liquid adsorption chromatography, ion mobility spectrometry). Finally, aged non-ionic surfactants formed upon hydrolytic degradation are analyzed by MALDI-HRMS/HRKMD to easily assign the degradation products and infer the associated degradation routes. In addition to the hydrolysis of the ester groups observed for EHCO, chain scissions and new polar end-groups are observed in the HRKMD plot of PEO monostearate arising from a competitive oxidative ageing.

Direct fabrication of ordered mesoporous carbons with super-micropore/small mesopore using mixed triblock copolymers.

PubMed

Li, Peng; Song, Yan; Tang, Zhihong; Yang, Guangzhi; Yang, Junhe

2014-01-01

Ordered mesoporous carbons (OMCs) have been prepared by the strategy of evaporation-induced organic-organic self-assembly method by employing a mixture of amphiphilic triblock copolymers poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(propylene oxide)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) and reverse PPO-PEO-PPO as templates, with soluble in ethanol, low-molecular-weight phenolic resin as precursor, followed by carbonization. It has been found that the as prepared OMCs with porosity that combines super-micropore and small mesopore size distributed from 0.8 to 4 nm, which bridges the pore size from 2 to 3 nm and also for the diversification of the soft-templating synthesis of OMCs. Furthermore, the results showed that the OMCs obtained have mesophase transition from cylindrical p6 mm to centered rectangular c2 mm structure by simply tuning the ratio of PPO-PEO-PPO/PEO-PPO-PEO. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of a Polarizable Force Field for Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Poly (Ethylene Oxide) in Aqueous Solution.

PubMed

Starovoytov, Oleg N; Borodin, Oleg; Bedrov, Dmitry; Smith, Grant D

2011-06-14

We have developed a quantum chemistry-based polarizable potential for poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) in aqueous solution based on the APPLE&P polarizable ether and the SWM4-DP polarizable water models. Ether-water interactions were parametrized to reproduce the binding energy of water with 1,2-dimethoxyethane (DME) determined from high-level quantum chemistry calculations. Simulations of DME-water and PEO-water solutions at room temperature using the new polarizable potentials yielded thermodynamic properties in good agreement with experimental results. The predicted miscibility of PEO and water as a function of the temperature was found to be strongly correlated with the predicted free energy of solvation of DME. The developed nonbonded force field parameters were found to be transferrable to poly(propylene oxide) (PPO), as confirmed by capturing, at least qualitatively, the miscibility of PPO in water as a function of the molecular weight.

The effect of alpha-tocopherol on the oxidation and free radical decay in irradiated UHMWPE.

PubMed

Oral, Ebru; Rowell, Shannon L; Muratoglu, Orhun K

2006-11-01

We developed a radiation cross-linked ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) stabilized with alpha-tocopherol (Vitamin E) as a bearing material in total joint replacements. The stabilizing effect of alpha-tocopherol on free radical reactions in UHMWPE is not well understood. We investigated the effect of alpha-tocopherol on the oxidation and transformation of residual free radicals during real-time aging of alpha-tocopherol-doped, irradiated UHMWPE (alphaTPE) and irradiated UHMWPE (control). Samples were aged at 22 degrees C (room temperature) in air, at 40 degrees C in air and at 40 degrees C in water for 7 months. During the first month, alphaTPE showed some oxidation at the surface, which stayed constant thereafter. Control exhibited substantial oxidation in the subsurface region, which increased with time. The alkyl/allyl free radicals transformed to oxygen centered ones in both materials; this transformation occurred faster in alpha-TPE. In summary, the real-time oxidation behavior of alpha-TPE was consistent with that observed using accelerated aging methods. This new UHMWPE is oxidation resistant and is expected to maintain its properties in the long term.

Detection of Intracellular Reduced (Catalytically Active) SHP-1 and Analyses of Catalytically Inactive SHP-1 after Oxidation by Pervanadate or H2O2.

PubMed

Choi, Seeyoung; Love, Paul E

2018-01-05

Oxidative inactivation of cysteine-dependent Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases (PTPs) by cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a critical role in regulating signal transduction in multiple cell types. The phosphatase activity of most PTPs depends upon a 'signature' cysteine residue within the catalytic domain that is maintained in the de-protonated state at physiological pH rendering it susceptible to ROS-mediated oxidation. Direct and indirect techniques for detection of PTP oxidation have been developed (Karisch and Neel, 2013). To detect catalytically active PTPs, cell lysates are treated with iodoacetyl-polyethylene glycol-biotin (IAP-biotin), which irreversibly binds to reduced (S - ) cysteine thiols. Irreversible oxidation of SHP-1 after treatment of cells with pervanadate or H 2 O 2 is detected with antibodies specific for the sulfonic acid (SO 3 H) form of the conserved active site cysteine of PTPs. In this protocol, we describe a method for the detection of the reduced (S - ; active) or irreversibly oxidized (SO 3 H; inactive) form of the hematopoietic PTP SHP-1 in thymocytes, although this method is applicable to any cysteine-dependent PTP in any cell type.

Block Copolymer as a Surface Modifier to Monodisperse Patchy Silica Nanoparticles for Superhydrophobic Surfaces.

PubMed

Lou, Shuo; Wang, Junzheng; Yin, Xiaohong; Qu, Wenxiu; Song, Yuexiao; Xin, Feng; Qaraah, Fahim Abdo Ali

2018-06-18

Monodisperse patchy silica nanoparticles (PSNPs) less than 100 nm are prepared based on the seed-regrowth method using a poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-poly(propylene oxide) (PPO)-PEO-type block copolymer as a surface modifier. Well-defined patches are controllably synthesized through area-selective deposition of silica onto the surface of seeds. After colloidal PSNPs are further modified with trimethylchlorosilane, the advancing and receding contact angles of water for PSNPs are 168 ± 2° and 167 ± 2°, respectively. The superhydrophobic and transparent coatings on the various types of substrates are obtained by a simple drop-casting procedure. Additionally, almost the same superhydrophobicity can be achieved by using colloidal PSNPs via redispersing the powder of superhydrophobic PSNPs in ethanol.

Preparation of Calcium Carbonate (from Shellfish)/Magnesium Oxide Composites as an Antibacterial Agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jannah, Z.; Mubarok, H.; Syamsiyah, F.; Putri, A. A. H.; Rohmawati, L.

2018-05-01

We have performed research on antibacterial substance from a natural substance, one of them is calcite from shellfish (Anadara granosa) in Kenjeran Beach Surabaya. This calcite is composed of magnesium oxide using PEG 4000 (Polyethylene glycol) as a solvent and then heated at 800 °C for 30 minutes. Weight variety of calcite used was 80% wt, 85% wt, and 90 wt%. Subsequently, that composites characterized using XRD, antibacterial activity test (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus), and SEM. The result of antibacterial assay shows that composite of CaCO3/MgO with 80% wt composition have the best activity inhibitory of 31,96 mm for Escherichia coli bacteria and 32.26 mm for Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.

Fully Printed Halide Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes with Silver Nanowire Electrodes.

PubMed

Bade, Sri Ganesh R; Li, Junqiang; Shan, Xin; Ling, Yichuan; Tian, Yu; Dilbeck, Tristan; Besara, Tiglet; Geske, Thomas; Gao, Hanwei; Ma, Biwu; Hanson, Kenneth; Siegrist, Theo; Xu, Chengying; Yu, Zhibin

2016-02-23

Printed organometal halide perovskite light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are reported that have indium tin oxide (ITO) or carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as the transparent anode, a printed composite film consisting of methylammonium lead tribromide (Br-Pero) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) as the emissive layer, and printed silver nanowires as the cathode. The fabrication can be carried out in ambient air without humidity control. The devices on ITO/glass have a low turn-on voltage of 2.6 V, a maximum luminance intensity of 21014 cd m(-2), and a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 1.1%, surpassing previous reported perovskite LEDs. The devices on CNTs/polymer were able to be strained to 5 mm radius of curvature without affecting device properties.

Acoustic, Thermal and Molecular Interactions of Polyethylene Glycol (2000, 3000, 6000)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Venkatramanan, K.; Padmanaban, R.; Arumugam, V.

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is a condensation polymer of ethylene oxide and water. PEG find its application as emulsifying agents, detergents, soaps, plasticizers, ointments, etc. Though the chemical and physical properties of PEG are known, still because of their uses in day to day life, it becomes necessary to study few physical properties like ultrasonic velocity, viscosity and hence adiabatic compressibility, free length, etc. In the present study, an attempt has been made to compute the activation energy and hence to analyse the molecular interactions of aqueous solutions of Polyethylene Glycol of molar mass 2000, 3000 and 6000 at different concentrations (2%, 4%, 6%, 8% and 10%) at different temperatures (303K, 308K, 313K, 318K) by determining relative viscosity, ultrasonic velocity and density. Various parameters like adiabatic compressibility, viscous relaxation time, inter molecular free length, free volume, internal pressure, etc are calculated at 303K and the results are discussed in the light of polymer-solvent interaction. This study helps to understand the behavior of macro-molecules with respect to changing concentration and temperature. Furthermore, viscosity and activation energy results are correlated to understand the increased entanglement of the polymer chains due to the increase in the concentration of a polymer solution that leads to an increase in viscosity and an increase in the activation energy of viscous flow.

Three Year RSA Evaluation of Vitamin E Diffused Highly Cross-linked Polyethylene Liners and Cup Stability.

PubMed

Sillesen, Nanna H; Greene, Meridith E; Nebergall, Audrey K; Nielsen, Poul T; Laursen, Mogens B; Troelsen, Anders; Malchau, Henrik

2015-07-01

Vitamin E diffusion into highly cross-linked polyethylene (E-XLPE) is a method for enhancing oxidative stability of acetabular liners. The purpose of this study was to evaluate in vivo penetration of E-XLPE using radiostereometric analysis (RSA). Eighty-four hips were recruited into a prospective 10-year RSA. This is the first evaluation of the multicenter cohort after 3-years. All patients received E-XLPE liners (E1, Biomet) and porous-titanium coated cups (Regenerex, Biomet). There was no difference (P=0.450) in median femoral head penetration into the E-XLPE liners at 3-years comparing cobalt-chrome heads (-0.028mm; inter-quartile range (IQR) - 0.065 to 0.047) with ceramic heads (-0.043mm, IQR - 0.143to0.042). The 3-year follow-up indicates minimal E-XLPE liner penetration regardless of head material and minimal early cup movement. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

PEGylation of zinc nanoparticles amplifies their ability to enhance olfactory responses to odorant

PubMed Central

Singletary, Melissa; Hagerty, Samantha; Muramoto, Shin; Daniels, Yasmine; MacCrehan, William A.; Stan, Gheorghe; Lau, June W.; Pustovyy, Oleg; Globa, Ludmila; Morrison, Edward E.; Sorokulova, Iryna

2017-01-01

Olfactory responses are intensely enhanced with the addition of endogenous and engineered primarily-elemental small zinc nanoparticles (NPs). With aging, oxidation of these Zn nanoparticles eliminated the observed enhancement. The design of a polyethylene glycol coating to meet storage requirements of engineered zinc nanoparticles is evaluated to achieve maximal olfactory benefit. The zinc nanoparticles were covered with 1000 g/mol or 400 g/mol molecular weight polyethylene glycol (PEG). Non-PEGylated and PEGylated zinc nanoparticles were tested by electroolfactogram with isolated rat olfactory epithelium and odorant responses evoked by the mixture of eugenol, ethyl butyrate and (±) carvone after storage at 278 K (5 oC), 303 K (30 oC) and 323 K (50 oC). The particles were analyzed by atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and laser Doppler velocimetry. Our data indicate that stored ZnPEG400 nanoparticles maintain physiologically-consistent olfactory enhancement for over 300 days. These engineered Nanoparticles support future applications in olfactory research, sensitive detection, and medicine. PMID:29261701

Temperature dependent dielectric properties and ion transportation in solid polymer electrolyte for lithium ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sengwa, R. J.; Dhatarwal, Priyanka; Choudhary, Shobhna

2016-05-01

Solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) film consisted of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) blend matrix with lithium tetrafluroborate (LiBF4) as dopant ionic salt and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as plasticizer has been prepared by solution casting method followed by melt pressing. Dielectric properties and ionic conductivity of the SPE film at different temperatures have been determined by dielectric relaxation spectroscopy. It has been observed that the dc ionic conductivity of the SPE film increases with increase of temperature and also the decrease of relaxation time. The temperature dependent relaxation time and ionic conductivity values of the electrolyte are governed by the Arrhenius relation. Correlation observed between dc conductivity and relaxation time confirms that ion transportation occurs with polymer chain segmental dynamics through hopping mechanism. The room temperature ionic conductivity is found to be 4 × 10-6 S cm-1 which suggests the suitability of the SPE film for rechargeable lithium batteries.

Preparation of monolithic osmotic pump system by coating the indented core tablet.

PubMed

Liu, Longxiao; Che, Binjie

2006-10-01

A method for the preparation of monolithic osmotic pump tablet was obtained by coating the indented core tablet compressed by the punch with a needle. Atenolol was used as the model drug, sodium chloride as osmotic agent and polyethylene oxide as suspending agent. Ethyl cellulose was employed as semipermeable membrane containing polyethylene glycol 400 as plasticizer for controlling membrane permeability. The formulation of atenolol osmotic pump tablet was optimized by orthogonal design and evaluated by similarity factor (f2). The optimal formulation was evaluated in various release media and agitation rates. Indentation size of core tablet hardly affected drug release in the range of (1.00-1.14) mm. The optimal osmotic tablet was found to be able to deliver atenolol at an approximately constant rate up to 24h, independent of both release media and agitation rate. The method that is simplified by coating the indented core tablet with the elimination of laser drilling may be promising in the field of the preparation of osmotic pump tablet.

Core–Shell Structure and Aggregation Number of Micelles Composed of Amphiphilic Block Copolymers and Amphiphilic Heterografted Polymer Brushes Determined by Small-Angle X-ray Scattering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Szymusiak, Magdalena; Kalkowski, Joseph; Luo, Hanying

2017-08-31

A large group of functional nanomaterials employed in biomedical applications, including targeted drug delivery, relies on amphiphilic polymers to encapsulate therapeutic payloads via self-assembly processes. Knowledge of the micelle structures will provide critical insights into design of polymeric drug delivery systems. Core–shell micelles composed of linear diblock copolymers poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(caprolactone) (PEG-b-PCL), poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(lactic acid) (PEG-b-PLA), as well as a heterografted brush consisting of a poly(glycidyl methacrylate) backbone with PEG and PLA branches (PGMA-g-PEG/PLA) were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) measurements to gain structural information regarding the particle morphology, core–shell size, and aggregation number. Themore » structural information at this quasi-equilibrium state can also be used as a reference when studying the kinetics of polymer micellization.« less

Core–Shell Structure and Aggregation Number of Micelles Composed of Amphiphilic Block Copolymers and Amphiphilic Heterografted Polymer Brushes Determined by Small-Angle X-ray Scattering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Szymusiak, Magdalena; Kalkowski, Joseph; Luo, Hanying

2017-08-16

A large group of functional nanomaterials employed in biomedical applications, including targeted drug delivery, relies on amphiphilic polymers to encapsulate therapeutic payloads via self-assembly processes. Knowledge of the micelle structures will provide critical insights into design of polymeric drug delivery systems. Core–shell micelles composed of linear diblock copolymers poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(caprolactone) (PEG-b-PCL), poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(lactic acid) (PEG-b-PLA), as well as a heterografted brush consisting of a poly(glycidyl methacrylate) backbone with PEG and PLA branches (PGMA-g-PEG/PLA) were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) measurements to gain structural information regarding the particle morphology, core–shell size, and aggregation number. Themore » structural information at this quasi-equilibrium state can also be used as a reference when studying the kinetics of polymer micellization.« less

Temperature dependent dielectric properties and ion transportation in solid polymer electrolyte for lithium ion batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sengwa, R. J., E-mail: rjsengwa@rediffmail.com; Dhatarwal, Priyanka, E-mail: dhatarwalpriyanka@gmail.com; Choudhary, Shobhna, E-mail: shobhnachoudhary@rediffmail.com

2016-05-06

Solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) film consisted of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) blend matrix with lithium tetrafluroborate (LiBF{sub 4}) as dopant ionic salt and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as plasticizer has been prepared by solution casting method followed by melt pressing. Dielectric properties and ionic conductivity of the SPE film at different temperatures have been determined by dielectric relaxation spectroscopy. It has been observed that the dc ionic conductivity of the SPE film increases with increase of temperature and also the decrease of relaxation time. The temperature dependent relaxation time and ionic conductivity values of the electrolyte are governedmore » by the Arrhenius relation. Correlation observed between dc conductivity and relaxation time confirms that ion transportation occurs with polymer chain segmental dynamics through hopping mechanism. The room temperature ionic conductivity is found to be 4 × 10{sup −6} S cm{sup −1} which suggests the suitability of the SPE film for rechargeable lithium batteries.« less

Synthesis of hydrophobic zinc borate nanoflakes and its effect on flame retardant properties of polyethylene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shengli; Long, Beihong; Wang, Zichen; Tian, Yumei; Zheng, Yunhui; Zhang, Qian

2010-04-01

Zinc borate (2ZnO·3B 2O 3·3.5H 2O) has relatively high dehydration on-set temperature which property permits processing in a wide range of polymer system. But zinc borate particles are hardly dispersed in a polymer matrix so that they prevent their using in industry. To address this problem, we synthesized hydrophobic zinc borate (2ZnO·3B 2O 3·3.5H 2O) nanoflakes by employing solid-liquid reaction of zinc oxide (ZnO) and boric acid (H 3BO 3) in the presence of oleic acid. This method does not bring pollution. By conducting morphological and microscopic analyses, we found that this compound displayed nanoflake morphology with particle size of around 100-200 nm, thickness less than 100 nm and there were uniform mesopores with the diameter about 10 nm within the particles. Furthermore, our products had an effect on flame retardant of polyethylene, especially when the zinc borate was modified by oleic acid.

Safety Evaluation of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Compounds for Cosmetic Use

PubMed Central

Shin, Chan Young; Kim, Kyu-Bong

2015-01-01

Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are products of condensed ethylene oxide and water that can have various derivatives and functions. Since many PEG types are hydrophilic, they are favorably used as penetration enhancers, especially in topical dermatological preparations. PEGs, together with their typically nonionic derivatives, are broadly utilized in cosmetic products as surfactants, emulsifiers, cleansing agents, humectants, and skin conditioners. The compounds studied in this review include PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer, PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, and PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil. Overall, much of the data available in this review are on PEGylated oils (PEG-40 and PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oils), which were recommended as safe for use in cosmetics up to 100% concentration. Currently, PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate and PEGylated oils are considered safe for cosmetic use according to the results of relevant studies. Additionally, PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer should be further studied to ensure its safety as a cosmetic ingredient. PMID:26191379

Reactivity assay of surface carboxyl chain-ends of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) film and track-etched microporous membranes using fluorine labelled- and/or 3H-labelled derivatization reagents: tandem analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and liquid scintillation counting (LSC)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deldime, Michèle; Dewez, Jean-Luc; Schneider, Yves-Jacques; Marchand-Brynaert, Jacqueline

1995-09-01

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) films and track-etched microporous membranes of two different porosities were pretreated by hydrolysis and/or oxidation in order to enhance the amount of carboxyl chain-ends displayed on their surface. The reactivity of these carboxyl functions was determined by derivatization assays in which the reactions were carried out under conditions likely to be encountered in the coupling of water-soluble biochemical signals on the surface of biomaterials. Original reagents, fluorine-labelled and/or 3H-labelled aminoacid compounds, were used. The derivatized PET samples were examined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to characterize their apparent surfaces, and by liquid scintillation counting (LSC) to quantify the amount of tags fixed on their open surfaces. Using this dual assay technique, we analyzed the surface of microporous membranes which are currently used as substrates for cell culture systems.