A promising pullulan/PLA composite: Influence of pullulan in the scaffolds morphology constructed by 3D printing

Author(s)

Neto, Thalita Silva ; Maia, Lana S. ; Zanata, Leonardo ; Conceicao, Monique O. T. ; Medeiros, Simone F. ; Faria, Maria Ismenia S. D. ; Rosa, Derval S. ; Mulinari, Daniella R.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Journal of Applied Polymer Science; v. N/A, p. 14-pg., 2024-10-24.

Abstract

Manufacturing three-dimensional scaffolds with significant rough and porous structures is advantageous in tissue regeneration approaches influencing cell growth. Thus, this work aims to study the effect of using different Pullulan contents (PULL) in the poly(lactic) acid (PLA) matrix for 3D printing scaffolds. PLA composites filler with PULL (5 and 10% wt.) were prepared in a thermokinetic mixer, extruded in a machine, and then used to print samples using a fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printer. The prepared filaments and scaffolds were characterized using Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetry analyses (TGA), water contact angle (WCA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and hardness techniques. The insertion of PULL into the PLA matrix influenced the increase in diameter and roughness, and density reduction of the composite filaments compared to pristine PLA. Furthermore, the filler promoted an increase in thermal stability, shore hardness, and the development of promising morphological characteristics for cell growth because the walls of the scaffolds are more robust and have more regular-sized holes. The scaffold fabrication reinforced with 10% PULL presented high surface roughness (up to 1022% if compared with pristine PLA), and open pores can be confirmed successfully compared to pristine PLA. Thus, the use of PULL as a filler in a PLA matrix guarantees the development of composite scaffolds with improved morphological and hardness properties, which could allow the possibility of future research into the application of the proposed material (10% wt. PULL) as an ecologically correct and biocompatible alternative for application in tissue engineering. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 21/14714-1 - Multi-user equipment approved in grant 2020/13703-3: Cromatógrafo de Íons Modular 940 Professional IC Vario
• Grantee: Derval dos Santos Rosa
• Support Opportunities: Multi-user Equipment Program
• FAPESP's process: 23/14598-7 - DEVELOPMENT OF AEROGELS CONTAINING CELLULOSE MICROFIBERS AND CLAY FOR THE METAL IONS REMOVAL PRESENT IN CONTAMINATED WATER
• Grantee: Lana Siqueira Maia
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• FAPESP's process: 20/13703-3 - Environmentally friendly porous materials for the recovery and revaluation of metals reclaimed from contaminated water
• Grantee: Derval dos Santos Rosa
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants