Development of nanocomposite based on hydroxyethylmethacrylate and functionalized fumed silica: mechanical, chemico-physical and biological characterization

J Mater Sci Mater Med. 2011 Mar;22(3):481-90. doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4223-1. Epub 2011 Jan 11.

Abstract

In this research work organic/inorganic nano composites were synthesized from poly-2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate and properly modified silica nanoparticles by in situ polymerization. In particular, fumed nanosilica was functionalized with methacryloylpropyltrimetoxy silane (MPTMS) in order to obtain a more homogeneous, reliable and mechanically performing nano composite. For comparison, nano composites with non functionalized silica were also prepared. Scanning electron microscopy was performed in order to visualize the effects of functionalization on the mode and state of dispersion. This analysis demonstrated that MPTMS grafted onto silica surface acts as an effective coupling agent and assures a good dispersion and distribution of nanoparticles as well as a strong nano particle/matrix interfacial adhesion. As a result of strong interactions occurring between phases, a pronounced increase of the glass transition temperature and mechanical parameters were recorded. Finally, these novel nano composites were seeded with murine fibroblast and human mesenchymal stem cells, and observed in time-lapse experiments proving an effective biological response.

MeSH terms

  • 3T3 Cells
  • Animals
  • Cell Adhesion
  • Chemistry, Physical / methods
  • Fibroblasts / cytology
  • Humans
  • Hydrogels / chemistry
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Ions
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / cytology
  • Methacrylates / chemistry*
  • Mice
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Nanocomposites / chemistry*
  • Nanotechnology / methods
  • Organosilicon Compounds
  • Silanes / chemistry
  • Silicon Dioxide / chemistry*
  • Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared / methods
  • Stress, Mechanical

Substances

  • Hydrogels
  • Ions
  • Methacrylates
  • Organosilicon Compounds
  • Silanes
  • hydroxyethyl methacrylate
  • Silicon Dioxide
  • (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane