Tailoring surface biopolymers by plasma modification from fundamentals to application.

• Grant number: 24/16917-5
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Visiting Researcher Grant - International
• Start date: November 05, 2024
• End date: January 07, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Inorganic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Hernane da Silva Barud
• Grantee: Hernane da Silva Barud
• Visiting researcher: Caillier Bruno
• Visiting researcher institution: Institut National Universitaire Champollion/Inu, France
• Host Institution: Universidade de Araraquara (UNIARA). Associação São Bento de Ensino. Araraquara , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/11965-3 - Center for the sustainable management of pests, diseases and weeds, AP.CCD

Abstract

A key focus will be on advancing the development of a novel atmospheric pressure plasma (APP) source for biopolymer surface modification. By leveraging APP technology, we aim to enhance biopolymer hydrophilicity, biocompatibility, and adhesion through the introduction of functional groups without compromising bulk material properties. The project will involve the deposition and activation of bio-based precursors onto biopolymer surfaces using the developed APP system. A subsequent phase will apply this technology to a bacterial cellulose-based cell culture platform, targeting improved cell adhesion and antimicrobial properties. Initial project milestones include the design, construction, and testing of an atmospheric pressure plasma reactor. Comprehensive characterization of modified biopolymer surfaces will be conducted using techniques such as contact angle measurement, XPS, AFM, and water contact angle hysteresis to assess hydrophilicity, surface chemistry, morphology, and heterogeneity. (AU)