Nanoscale Dynamic Analysis of Surface Properties of Biopolymers

University Of California-Berkeley, Berkeley CA

Investigators

Abstract

Nanoscale Dynamic Analysis of Surface Properties of Biopolymers Grand CMS-0528506 Abstract The longevity of joint implants and the efficiency of catheterization techniques greatly depend on fundamental understanding of the dynamic surface properties of polymers used in these applications. The motivation of this research is to bridge the gap of knowledge of the dynamic response of biopolymer surfaces. The research consists of the following main tasks: (a) gamma-irradiation and plasma-assisted surface modification of medical-grade polyethylenes, (b) characterization of the surface topography and chemical behavior of the treated polymers, and (c) investigation of the dynamic behavior of both unmodified and treated polymers using dynamic force microprobe analysis. The significance of this research is the basic insight into nanoscale surface phenomena of biopolymers with direct implications in biomedical applications.