Three-dimensional conformal coatings through the entrapment of polymer membrane precursors

ACS Appl Mater Interfaces. 2014 Feb 26;6(4):2830-5. doi: 10.1021/am4053943. Epub 2014 Feb 3.

Abstract

We report a technique to coat polymers onto 3D surfaces distinct from traditional spray, spin, or dip coating. In our technique, the surface of a template structure composed of poly(lactic acid) swells and entraps a soluble polymer precursor. Once entrapped, the precursor is cured, resulting in a thin, conformal membrane. The thickness of each coating depends on the coating solution composition, residence time, and template size. Thicknesses ranged from 400 nm to 4 μm within the experimental conditions we explored. The coating method was compatible with a range of polymers. Complicated 3D structures and microstructures of 10 μm thickness and separation were coated using this technique. The templates can also be selectively removed, leaving behind a hollow membrane structure in the shape of the original printed, extruded, or microporous template structures. This technique may be useful in applications that benefit from three-dimensional membrane topologies, including catalysis, separations, and potentially tissue engineering.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Coated Materials, Biocompatible*
  • Dimethylpolysiloxanes / chemistry*
  • Lactic Acid / chemistry*
  • Molecular Structure
  • Polyesters
  • Polymers / chemistry*

Substances

  • Coated Materials, Biocompatible
  • Dimethylpolysiloxanes
  • Polyesters
  • Polymers
  • Lactic Acid
  • poly(lactide)
  • baysilon