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O presente artigo tem a intenção de abordar como a sustentabilidade e o cuidado com os resíduos industriais passaram a ser discutidos na moda. Considera-se que estar na moda é ter uma preocupação com o meio ambiente e o desenvolvimento sustentável, além de fazer algo que contribua para mudar os rumos atuais do consumo e possibilite a interação entre o homem e a natureza de forma mais harmoniosa. Repensar os ciclos produtivos e as formas de exploração e de interface com a floresta e com o meio ambiente é justamente o paradigma dos próximos anos, e da chamada retomada verde. O tingimento de produtos do design têxtil com corantes naturais é uma expressão cultural única e não pode ser comparado somente em termos de eficiência em relação à utilização de corantes sintéticos e industriais. Uma desvantagem dos corantes naturais, independentemente de sua fonte vegetal, é a baixa concentração de corante nos extratos obtidos – já que acumular o extrato por meio de evaporação consome grande quantidade de energia. Um aspecto interessante dos corantes naturais que vem sendo abordado na literatura é a atividade antimicrobiana da matéria-prima empregada na extração dos corantes. No atual contexto, o caráter sustentável deixa de ser considerado apenas diferenciador e se torna essencial, levando à necessidade de utilização de materiais não nocivos ao meio ambiente, como os renováveis e, mais especificamente, de corantes naturais como matéria-prima para o design de produtos têxteis, constituindo parte importante do desenvolvimento sustentável.

The COVID-19 pandemic has mobilized most countries to investigate multiple virus mitigation interventions, the face protection masks are among the main ones. Filtration and breathability are important factors in the applied materials choice. Design plays a fundamental innovative role in developing new products and materials that meet this emergency demand. 3D printing allows adjustments from an industrial production to answer an increasingly specific demand. This process allows the printing of a poly (lactic acid) (PLA) filter mesh with Tourmaline (TM) for a mask made in a triple layer with cotton fabric. One of the properties of TM is the negative ions emission, which allows capturing particles dispersed in the air. PLA is a bio-based and biodegradable polymer, with the corn as it’s most effective source. It makes it a good choice for the project, aiming to be aligned to environmental issues. In addition, the cotton application and the modeling directed to the domestic sewing use make the project accessible to the population, adaptied to digital and personal manufacturing and aligned to the Maker Movement.

In this study the surface of bio-based polyurethane foam was enriched with different contents of catalyst residue from the petroleum industry. The foams were prepared with different residue contents, 20, 50, and 80 wt% relative to the total mass of the polyols and were characterized by several techniques, with X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, microtomography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric. To determine the removing process the effects of various operating parameters, pH of the solution (2–12), initial concentration of pesticides (5–50 mg L−1), contact time (15–1440 min), and amount of adsorbent (30–400 mg) were investigated in a batch adsorption technique. The specific surface area of the residue was determined by the BET method as up to 150 m2/g and mean pore diameter of 4.20 ± 0.42 nm (mesopore), which explains the excellent results of the materials in the adsorption process. The high adsorption capacity is probably due to the presence of highly concentrated catalyst residue on the foam surface. Trifluralin pesticide was removed in water using these polyurethane foams with 20.0 mg L−1 initial concentration of herbicide, 30.0 mg adsorbent mass of, 5.0 pH, and 25.0 °C temperature. The chemically prepared foams with 50 wt% residue (PURC50) have higher adsorption capacities (70%) and can be used to remove trifluralin from natural waters effectively. The efficiency of removing the herbicide increased to 83% with the use of 400.0 mg adsorbent mass. The adsorption efficiency of the pure catalyst residue reaches a maximum (95.3%). The established adsorption method was appropriate for adsorption of trifluralin in contaminated waters.

Cornstarch was processed on an extruder with glycerol and different contents of urea giving rise to samples named as SGU-0, SGU-1, SGU-5, and SGU-10. The gelatinization enthalpy ΔHgel, calculated by DSC, indicated that the mixture of glycerol and urea seems to better plasticize the starch than glycerol alone. XRD was used to identify the changes in the crystal structure of native starch after extrusion processing. XRD diffractograms indicated the presence of both residual native crystallinity and processing-induced crystallinity. The morphology observed by SEM was compatible with the presence of residual crystals and recrystallization, as suggested by XRD analysis. SAXS experiments pointed out the minute amount of B-type crystallites in the samples with urea, probably due to the hydrophilic character of urea, which contributes to starch hydration.

Revestimentos super-hidrofóbicos atraem a atenção devido às suas amplas aplicações. No entanto, a maioria das substâncias químicas e componentes utilizados para a sua fabricação são geralmente prejudiciais para o meio ambiente e possuem um custo elevado, o que dificulta a sua aplicação. A proposta da presente pesquisa é desenvolver revestimentos super-hidrofóbicos para substratos cerâmicos, priorizando o uso de materiais ecoeficientes. O substrato cerâmico usado neste estudo foi o azulejo queimado sem vitrificação, pelo fato de possuir uma superfície rugosa apropriada para a deposição dos revestimentos obtidos. A fabricação dos revestimentos super-hidrofóbicos foi feita por materiais sustentáveis e de baixo custo, o que viabiliza a sua utilização. Superhydrophobic coatings attract attention due to their wide applications. However, most chemical substances and components used for their manufacture are generally harmful to the environment and have a high cost, which makes their application difficult. The purpose of this research is to develop super-hydrophobic coatings for ceramic substrates, prioritizing the use of eco-efficient materials. The ceramic substrate used in this study was the fired tile without vitrification, because it has a rough surface suitable for the deposition of the obtained coatings. The manufacture of super-hydrophobic coatings was made using sustainable and low-cost materials, which makes their use viable. Los recubrimientos superhidrofóbicos llaman la atención debido a sus amplias aplicaciones. Sin embargo, la mayoría de las sustancias y componentes químicos utilizados para su fabricación son generalmente nocivos para el medio ambiente y tienen un costo elevado, lo que dificulta su aplicación. El objetivo de esta investigación es desarrollar recubrimientos superhidrofóbicos para sustratos cerámicos, priorizando el uso de materiales ecoeficientes. El sustrato cerámico utilizado en este estudio fue la baldosa cocida sin vitrificar, debido a que presenta una superficie rugosa adecuada para la deposición de los revestimientos obtenidos. La fabricación de recubrimientos superhidrofóbicos se realizó utilizando materiales sustentables y de bajo costo, lo que hace viable su uso.

To investigate ways of mitigating the contamination of water with herbicides, which is a well-recognized global problem, we prepared natural resource-based polyurethane foams containing different amounts of petroleum industry catalyst residue (RC) and tested them as atrazine (ATZ, a common herbicide) sorbents in aqueous solutions. The above sorbents were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, electron microscopy, microtomography, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray diffraction. The adsorption/desorption of ATZ thereon was investigated as a function of foam composition, pH, initial ATZ concentration, and time. The obtained results showed that the porosity, pore size, and pore interconnectivity of the prepared sorbents were well suited for optimal ATZ removal. At pH 2, foams with high RC contents achieved higher ATZ removal efficiencies (e.g., 25%) than the pristine foam (12%). Conversely, ATZ removal was disfavored at high pH, which was attributed to restricted ATZ–sorbent interactions due to changes in the sorbent surface charge. The presence of other species (such as pectin, which is usually found in fruits) did not interfere with ATZ removal. ATZ desorption was most effective at high pH, enabling the regeneration and re-use of sorbents and thus reducing large-scale application costs.

Annatto natural colorant was extracted from annatto seeds (Bixa Orellana L.) by using ultrasound. Structural characterization of the extract was done by FTIR. The aim of the present work was the developement and characterization of biodegradable colored films based on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) by using annatto colorant. The annatto content in the films was varied from 0.2 to 3.0% (w/w). The lightfastness of colored films when exposed to UVA radiation was controlled by using RGB color system. In color image processing, a pixel is often defined by three values corresponding to the tristimuli R (Red), G (Green) and B (Blue). With the addition of the annatto colorant, photodegradation of films under UVA exposure seemed to be improved. The good thermal stability of the colored film with 3.0% (w/w) of annatto colorant was confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis. Surface morphology of the colored film with 3.0% (w/w) of annatto colorant was examined by SEM prior and after 240 h of UVA exposure. The SEM micrographs suggested that annatto colorant has acted as hiding agent, reducing the photodegradation processes.

Nowadays, to develop products with lower impact without harming the environment. The aim of this work was to develop a polymer composite based in thermoplastic starch (TPS), maleate polyethylene (PE- g -MA) and curaua fiber in the proportion of 10%, 20% and 30 wt%. The resulting material was characterized by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), tensile test, scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy. The developed composite was applied on ceramic blocks and subjected to natural sunlight; its thermal behavior was monitored using infrared thermography. Thermography was effective for identifying temperature differences in samples of polymer composites with different percentages of fiber and allowed to monitor the thermal behavior. The results show that the manufactured composites have potential for use as thermal insulated building element.

Summary Purpose To evaluate the antiangiogenic activity of bevacizumab-loaded polyurethane using two animal models of neovascularization. Methods The percentage of blood vessels was evaluated in a chicken chorioallantoic membrane model ( n = 42) and in the rabbit cornea ( n = 24) with neovascularization induced by alkali injury. In each model, the animals were randomly divided into the groups treated with the bevacizumab-loaded polyurethane device, phosphate-buffered-saline (negative control) and bevacizumab commercial solution (positive control). Clinical examination, as well as histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation, were performed in the rabbit eyes. Microvascular density in hot spot areas was determined in semi-thin sections of corneal tissue by hematoxylin-eosin staining and factor VIII immunohistochemistry. Immunohistochemical analysis was also performed to evaluate VEGF expression. Results In the evaluated models, the use of bevacizumab (Avastin ® ) and the bevacizumab-loaded polyurethane device led to similar results with regard to inhibition of neovascularization. In the chorioallantoic membrane model, the bevacizumab-loaded polyurethane device reduced angiogenesis by 50.27% when compared to the negative control group. In the rabbit model of corneal neovascularization, the mean density of vessels/field was reduced by 46.87% on analysis of factor VIII immunohistochemistry photos in the bevacizumab-loaded polyurethane device group as compared to the negative control (PBS) sections. In both models, no significant difference could be identified between the bevacizumab-loaded polyurethane device and the positive control group, leading to similar results with regard to inhibition of neovascularization. Conclusions The present study shows that the bevacizumab-loaded polyurethane device may release bevacizumab and inhibit neovascularization similarly to commercial bevacizumab solution in the short-term.

The formation and characterization of poly(itaconic acid)/N-methylol acrylamide/poly(ethylene glycol) (PIA/NMA/PEG) complexes through in situ polymerization of itaconic acid on poly(ethylene glycol) was investigated. FTIR indicated that PEG crystallization was hindered by complex formation. The decrease in the crystallinity of PEG was also observed by DSC and indicated that the mobility of some PEG segments was inhibited by the presence of the polyacid. According to the swelling experiments, complexes proved to be suitable for use as excipient in the preparation of drug delivery systems responsive to pH changing. DMA was used to estimate the crosslink densities and the results were found to be in good agreement with the swelling results. Further, the adhesion strength of the synthesized polymers was used as preliminary evaluation of their potential of mucoadhesion. The results indicated that the adhesion performance is related to the presence of NMA. Drugs which suffer degradation in stomach pH, such as proteins and enzymes are potential candidates to be included in the systems based on PIA/NMA/PEG to pass through the stomach (pH near to 1.2–3.5). Upon reaching the initial portion of the small intestine (pH >5.5), the polymer will swell and release the active substance via diffusion and/or erosion of the matrix.

Bio-based polymers have been reported to have applications in biomedical and pharmaceutical areas. Polysaccharides, especially prepared from plant sources, have served a variety of uses. This work aims to prepare a polymer for use as a pharmaceutical excipient containing a functionalized carbohydrate (pectin) and acrylic monomers (methyl methacrylate, butyl methacrylate and ethyl acrylate) via an emulsion polymerization technique. Carbon double bonds were incorporated into the pectin by reacting this natural polymer with glycidyl methacrylate. The methacrylated pectin was then polymerized with acrylic monomers by emulsion polymerization. The mucoadhesive performance of the materials was investigated by in vitro preliminary assays based on viscometric studies, texture analysis and film wettability. The obtained results showed that the synergistic viscosity increase with greater concentrations of modified pectin. The contact angle decreased, suggesting an increase in the wettability for polymers with large amounts of methacrylated pectin. The addition of mucin in lattices caused an increase in the intermolecular forces and in the work of adhesion. This corroborates the use of pectin as a mucoadhesive excipient for mucoadhesive drug delivery systems.

Polyurethane waterborne synthesis was performed using a two-step method, commonly referred to as a prepolymer method. Nanocomposites based on waterborne polyurethane and cellulose nanocrystals were prepared by the prepolymer method by altering the mode and step in which the nanofillers were incorporated during the polyurethane formation. The morphology, structural, thermal, and mechanical properties of the resulting nanocomposite films were evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and tensile tests. FTIR results indicated that the degree of interaction between the nanofillers and the WPU through hydrogen bonds could be controlled by the method of cellulose nanocrystal incorporation. Data obtained from SAXS experiments showed that the cellulose nanocrystals as well as the step of the reaction in which they are added influenced the morphology of the polyurethane. The reinforcing effect of CNCs on the nanocomposites depends on their morphology.

The subretinal transplantation of retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE cells) grown on polymeric supports may have interest in retinal diseases affecting RPE cells. In this study, montmorillonite based polyurethane nanocomposite (PU-NC) was investigated as substrate for human RPE cell growth (ARPE-19 cells). The ARPE-19 cells were seeded on the PU-NC, and cell viability, proliferation and differentiation were investigated. The results indicated that ARPE-19 cells attached, proliferated onto the PU-NC, and expressed occludin. The in vivo ocular biocompatibility of the PU-NC was assessed by using the HET-CAM; and through its implantation under the retina. The direct application of the nanocomposite onto the CAM did not compromise the vascular tissue in the CAM surface, suggesting no ocular irritancy of the PU-NC film. The nanocomposite did not elicit any inflammatory response when implanted into the eye of rats. The PU-NC may have potential application as a substrate for RPE cell transplantation.

Targeted drug delivery to the ocular tissues remains a challenge. Biodegradable intraocular implants allow prolonged controlled release of drugs directly into the eye. In this study, we evaluated an anterior suprachoroidal polyurethane implant containing dexamethasone polyurethane dispersions (DX-PUD) as a drug delivery system in the rat model of endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU). In vitro drug release was studied using PUD implants containing 8%, 20%, and 30% (wt/wt) DX. Cytotoxicity of the degradation products of DX-PUD was assessed on human ARPE-19 cells using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test. Short-term ocular biocompatibility of suprachoroidal DX-PUD implants was evaluated in normal rat eyes. Endotoxin-induced uveitis was then induced in rat eyes preimplanted with DX-PUD. Clinical examination was performed at 24 hours; eyes were used to assess inflammatory cell infiltration and macrophage/microglial activation. Cytokine and chemokine expression in the iris/ciliary body and in the retina was investigated using quantitative PCR. Feasibility of anterior suprachoroidal PUD implantation was also tested using postmortem human eyes. A burst release was followed by a sustained controlled release of DX from PUD implants. By-products of the DX-PUD were not toxic to human ARPE-19 cells or to rat ocular tissues. Dexamethasone-PUD implants prevented EIU in rat eyes, reducing inflammatory cell infiltration and inhibiting macrophage/microglial activation. Dexamethasone-PUD downregulated proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines (IL-1β, IL-6, cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant [CINC]) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and upregulated IL-10 anti-inflammatory cytokine. Polyurethane dispersion was successfully implanted into postmortem human eyes. Dexamethasone-PUD implanted in the anterior suprachoroidal space may be of interest in the treatment of intraocular inflammation.

Nanofibers of poly (lactic acid) (PLA) and poly (caprolactone) (PCL) with different amounts of nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) were produced by electrospinning, changing both the applied voltage and collector's rotation. Characterization of the nanofibers by scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM, TEM), wide angle X-rays diffraction (WAXD), infrared (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMTA) showed that the PLA/nHA fibers had larger diameters, lower crystallinities, lower degradation temperatures and higher elastic modulus than the PCL/nHA nanofibers. The crystalline phases of the PLA/nHA fibers were a mixture of α and α′ phases, while the crystalline phase of the PCL/nHA samples was mainly α phase. In both set of mats, the highest amount of viable cells with early osteogenic activity after 7 days was obtained with the mats with the highest amount of nHA (5 wt%), the lowest amount of crystallinity and the highest elastic modulus. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bamboo is an alternative sustainable material for use in product design and has been incorporated into the concepts of eco-design. Here, we investigated the mechanical properties and morphologies of low density polyethylene (LDPE)/bamboo flour (BF) composites that were modified with polyethylene-graft-maleic anhydride (PE-g-MA) and glycerol. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and tensile tests of the composites demonstrated poor adhesion between the filler and matrix. Contact angle measurement showed that the surface of LDPE was modified by the presence of the load. The thermal stability of the composites was studied by measuring the oxidation induction time (OIT). Preliminary bacterial penetration tests were performed using culture inoculums of E. coli and S. aureus to investigate the natural antibacterial and bacteriostatic properties attributed to bamboo. Furthermore, bamboo may have interesting antioxidant activity with potential for use in food packaging applications.

The purpose of this study was to develop triamcinolone acetonide-loaded polyurethane implants (TA PU implants) for the local treatment of different pathologies including arthritis, ocular and neuroinflammatory disorders. The TA PU implants were characterized by FTIR, SAXS and WAXS. The in vitro and in vivo release of TA from the PU implants was evaluated. The efficacy of TA PU implants in suppressing inflammatory-angiogenesis in a murine sponge model was demonstrated. FTIR results revealed no chemical interactions between polymer and drug. SAXS results indicated that the incorporation of the drug did not disturb the polymer morphology. WAXS showed that the crystalline nature of the TA was preserved after incorporation into the PU. The TA released from the PU implants efficiently inhibited the inflammatory-angiogenesis induced by sponge discs in an experimental animal model. Finally, TA PU implants could be used as local drug delivery systems because of their controlled delivery of TA.

The design of new excipients that extend the release of drugs from tablets over prolonged periods is essential in reaching enhanced therapeutic performances. In this sense, the objective of this study was to develop new excipients, based on acrylic monomers (ethyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, and butyl methacrylate) for use in direct compression (DC). The polymeric excipients were prepared by suspension and emulsion polymerization reactions and were characterized by FTIR to confirm the polymerization reaction. For the success of direct compression, excipients must present good flow and compactability properties. Therefore, excipients were submitted to analysis of morphology (SEM), particle size and size distribution by laser diffraction, and powder density (bulk density and tapped density). The Carr index, Hausner ratio, flow ratio, and cotangent of the angle α were determined. Thereafter, the polymeric excipients were used to prepare inert matrices by DC using propranolol hydrochloride (PHCl) as a model drug. The tablets were evaluated for average weight, breaking force, and friability tests. The release profiles were determined, and the dissolution kinetics was studied. The results indicated that matrices prepared from excipients obtained by suspension polymerization (NWCB and PECB) presented a release of PHCl for a period exceeding 12h, most likely due to the higher micromeritic properties. The results suggested that the increase in the percentage of polymers, as well as in the compression time, resulted in a higher hardness of the matrix with a reduced rate release of the PHCl. Finally, in vitro preliminary tests showed that the polymeric excipients produced were non-toxic for the gingival fibroblasts.

Novel polymeric excipients need to be designed to allow for the controlled delivery of many drugs to treat a variety of diseases. In this work, two polymers based on different proportions of ethyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, and butyl methacrylate were synthesized by multistage emulsion polymerization using a redox initiator system to yield excipients for the manufacture of prolonged release tablets by the coating or compression technique. Fourier Transform Infrared spectrometer (FTIR) indicated that the polymerization reaction of the monomers was complete without carbon double bond absorption bands. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis indicated that the glass transition temperature (T g) of the polymers was around 50 °C. The dispersions obtained were characterized in terms of particle size and particle size distribution (PSD) using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and the particle charge (zeta potential) was measured by electrophoretic mobility. The measurements showed particle diameters of approximately 200 nm and a zeta potential close to −60 mV. The low viscosity obtained for the polymers was attributed to bimodal PSD. The dispersions were freeze dried and the particles were submitted to in vitro cell tests to make a preliminary check of the toxicity of the materials. The low viscosity of the polymers, the absence of volatile solvents, and the high solid content (>50%) are ideal for these polymers to be used as coatings and matrices pharmaceutical excipients for prolonged release tablets. In vitro MTT tests suggested that the materials can be considered nontoxic.

Implants are defined as controlled sustained release delivery systems of therapeutic agents incorporated or dispersed into a polymeric carrier. These systems can be implanted in specific organs and delivered by the therapeutic agents at the target site to treat various pathological processes. In the present study, the effects of dexamethasone-loaded polyurethane implants [PU ACT (dexamethasone acetate) implants] on inflammatory angiogenesis in a murine sponge model were investigated. PU ACT implants were inserted into nonbiocompatible sponges, used as a framework for fibrovascular tissue growth, and implanted into subcutaneous tissue located on the back of mice. After 7 days of implantation, the implant system was collected and processed for the assessment of hemoglobin (Hb; vascular index), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and N -acetyl-β- D -glucosaminidase (NAG; inflammatory enzymes activities) and collagen content. ACT released from the polymeric implants provided a significant decrease in the neovascularization in the sponge (Hb content). PU ACT implants provided no effects on neutrophil infiltration (MPO activity) but macrophage recruitment was affected by the glucocorticoid delivered by implants (NAG activity). ACT released from implants was able to reduce the collagen deposition. The qualitative histological findings corroborated with the measured biochemical parameters. These local drug delivery systems derived from polyurethane efficiently modulated the key components of inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis induced by sponge discs in an experimental animal model.

The treatment of posterior segment ocular diseases, such as uveitis, by using eye drops and oral drugs is usually not effective due to the body's natural barriers to drug penetration. In this study, ocular implants to treat uveitis were synthesized by incorporating dexamethasone acetate, an important type of corticoid used in the treatment of some uveitis, into a biodegradable polyurethane containi clay nanoparticles. Biodegradable polyurethane nanocomposites having poly(caprolactone) oligomers as soft segments were obtained by delaminating clay particles within a polyurethane aqueous dispersion. The drug was incorporated into the polymer by dispersing it in the waterborne polyurethane followed by a drying step. Nanoparticles derived from clay were demonstrated to be able to tailor the mechanical properties of polyurethanes to achieve values that can match the properties of ocular soft tissues. Infrared spectra (FTIR) showed that the presence of clay particles was able to change the microphase separation process typical of polyurethanes. X-ray diffraction and small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) results were explored to show that the incorporation of both dexamethasone acetate and nanocomponents derived from clay led to a less defined two-phase polyurethane. The presence of clay nanoparticles increased the rate of drug release measured in vitro . Human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19) were cultured in contact with polyurethanes and polyurethane nanocomposites, and the viability of them (evaluated by using MTT assay after 7 days) showed that no toxic components were released from polyurethanes containing no drugs during the test.

Direct compression is one of the most popular techniques to prepare tablets but only a few commercial excipients are well adapted for this process into controlled release formulations. In the last years, the introduction of new materials for drug delivery matrix tablets has become more important. This paper evaluated the physicochemical and flow properties of new polymeric excipient of ethyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate and butyl metacrylate, synthesized by suspension polymerization using cellulose nanowhiskers as co-stabilizer, to be used as direct compression for modified release tablets. Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the success of the copolymerization reaction. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that excipient was obtained how spherical beads. Thermal properties of the beads were characterized by thermogravimetric (TG) analysis. Particle size analysis of the beads with cellulose nanowhiskers (CNWB) indicated that the presence of the nanowhiskers led to a reduction of particle size and to a narrower size distribution. In vitro test showed that the nanowhiskers and beads produced are nontoxic. Parameters such as Hausner ratio, Carr's index and cotangent of angle α were employed to characterize the flow properties of CNWB beads. Furthermore, the beads are used to produce tablets by direct compression contained propranolol hydrochloride as model drug. Dissolution tests performed suggested that beads could be used as excipient in matrix tablets with a potential use in drug controlled release.

Purpose The transplant of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells on supports may well be an effective therapeutic approach to improve the visual results of patients with age-related macular degeneration. In this study, two biodegradable polyurethanes were investigated as supports for human RPE cells (ARPE-19). Methods Polyurethane aqueous dispersions based on poly(caprolactone) and/or poly(ethylene glycol) as soft segments, and isophorone diisocyanate and hydrazine as hard segments were prepared. Polyurethane films were produced by casting the dispersions and allowing them to dry at room temperature for one week. The ARPE-19 cells were seeded onto the polyurethane films and they were investigated as supports for in vitro adhesion, proliferation, and uniform distribution of differentiated ARPE-19 cells. Additionally, the in vivo ocular biocompatibility of the polyurethane films was evaluated. Results The RPE adhered to and proliferated onto the polyurethane supports, thus establishing cellPUD surface interactions. Upon confluence, the cells formed an organized monolayer, exhibited a polygonal appearance, and displayed actin filaments which ran along the upper cytoplasm. At 15 days of seeding, the occluding expression was confirmed between adjacent cells, representing the barrier functionality of epithelial cells on polymeric surfaces and the establishment of cell-cell interactions. Results from the in vivo study indicated that polyurethanes exhibited a high degree of short-term intraocular biocompatibility. Conclusions Biodegradable polyurethane films display the proper mechanical properties for an easy transscleral-driven subretinal implantation and can be considered as biocompatible supports for a functional ARPE-19 monolayer.

A porous biodegradable polyurethane nanocomposite based on poly(caprolactone) (PCL) and nanocomponents derived from montmorillonite (Cloisite®30B) was synthesized and tested to produce information regarding its potential use as a scaffold for tissue engineering. Structural and morphological characteristics of this nanocomposite were studied by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The reaction between polyurethane oligomers with isocyanate endcapped chains and water led to the evolution of CO2, which was responsible for building interconnected pores with sizes ranging from 184 to 387 μm. An in vitro cell-nanocomposite interaction study was carried out using neonatal rat calvarial osteoblasts. The ability of cells to proliferate and produce an extracellular matrix in contact with the synthesized material was assessed by an MTT assay, a collagen synthesis analysis, and the expression of alkaline phosphatase. In vivo experiments were performed by subcutaneously implanting samples in the dorsum of rats. The implants were removed after 14, 21, and 29 days, and were analyzed by SEM and optical microscopy after tissue processing. Histology crosssections and SEM analyses showed that the cells were able to penetrate into the material and to attach to many location throughout the pore structure. In vitro and in vivo tests demonstrated the feasibility for polyurethane nanocomposites to be used as artificial extracellular matrices onto which cells can attach, grow, and form new tissues.

Polyurethanes with controllable biodegradable properties have been considered for biomedical applications. However, the potential toxicity of their biodegraded by-products is still a concern. In this study, biodegradable polyurethanes based on poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) and/or poly(ethylene glycol) as soft segments and biodegradable polyurethanes containing montmorillonite nanoparticles were synthesized and were subjected to in vitro biodegradation for 4 months. The post-degraded polyurethanes and nanocomposites were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). The toxicity of the biodegradation by-products was evaluated by measuring their effect on the viability of retinal cells. FTIR results indicated that hard segments of the biomaterials were preserved during biodegradation, and suggested that the ester bonds of the PCL incorporated into the soft segments were hydrolytic broken. XRD data indicated also that the soft segments crystallized as a result of the hydrolysis of PCL ester bonds and re-organization of the amorphous phase during annealing at 37 °C. As the biodegradation of the biomaterials induced the formation of soft segment lamella crystals, a complex nanostructure was formed, resulting in the enhancement of the small angle X-ray scattering. The by-products were non-cytotoxic to the retinal cells. These results suggest that the hydrolytic unstable polyurethanes and nanocomposites can be possible candidates for ophthalmological applications.

Controlled delivery of drugs is a major issue in the treatment of ocular diseases, such as in the treatment of uveitis. In this study, dexamethasone acetate, an important type of corticoid used in the treatment of some uveitis, was incorporated into biodegradable polyurethanes (PU) having different macromolecular architectures. The biodegradable polyurethanes were obtained by preparing PU aqueous dispersions having poly(caprolactone) and/or poly(ethylene glycol) as soft segments. The drug was incorporated into the polymer by dissolving it in the PU aqueous dispersion. FTIR results showed the presence of the drug in the polymer with its original chemical structure. Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) results were explored to show that the incorporation of dexamethasone acetate led to the modification of the nanostructure of the polyurethane having only poly(caprolactone) as the soft segment, while the drug did not change significantly the microphase separated structure of PU having both poly(caprolactone) and poly(ethylene glycol) as soft segments. The evaluation of the release of the drug in vitro demonstrated that the obtained biodegradable polyurethanes were well succeeded in delivering dexamethasone acetate at an almost constant rate for 53 weeks. The presence of poly(ethylene glycol) together with poly(caprolactone) as soft segment in biodegradable PU was able to increase the rate of dexamethasone acetate release when compared to the rate of drug release from PU having only poly(caprolactone).

Aqueous dispersion of polyurethane ionomer (PUD), based on poly (propylene glycol) (PPG) as soft segment, isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) as diisocyanate, dimethylol propionic acid (DMPA) as ionic center, hydrazine (HZ) as crosslinker and triethyl amine (TEA) as neutralizer, was reinforced with 1 to 5 wt % of clay to obtain nanocomposites. Substitution of Na+-montmorillonite for bentonite was made by using three types of bentonite. The tensile strength and elongation at break decreased for all nanocomposites having 5% clay in comparison to pristine polyurethane. The enhancement of mechanical properties over pristine polyurethane was achieved only by using 1% of clay. The structure of layered silicates in polyurethane was found to be maintained in some extent as evidenced from wide-angle X-ray diffraction analysis. Nevertheless, the rather weak and broad diffraction peaks appearing in the curves of bentonite clays nanocomposites indicated that a nanostructure of silicate in waterborne PU system has been formed using a low cost raw material and an environmental friendly aqueous polymer precursor.

© 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.Coaxial poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL)/gelatin nanofibers were successfully fabricated by electrospinning, using 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (TFE) as a solvent. The morphology of the PCL/gelatin coaxial fibers was evaluated using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscope, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscope. The disappearance of gelatin absorption bands in FTIR spectrum after the mat washing step suggested that coaxial nanofibers were obtained. The coaxial morphology was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The influences of PCL concentration, applied voltage, and feed rate on the characteristics of the PCL core were analyzed in correlation with the structure of the nanofibers. The morphology of the coaxial fibers was observed to be mainly affected by the PCL solution concentration. Extraction of the PCL core using dichloromethane allowed the preparation of hollow gelatin nanofibers. The replacement of TFE by a formic acid-acetic acid (1:1) system as a less toxic solvent also successfully resulted in the preparation of coaxial PCL-gelatin nanofibers.

Mineralized poly(ε-caprolactone)/gelatin core-shell nanofibers were prepared via co-axial electrospinning and subsequent incubation in biomimetic simulated body fluid containing ten times the calcium and phosphate ion concentrations found in human blood plasma. The deposition of calcium phosphate on the nanofiber surfaces was investigated through scanning electronic microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Energy dispersive spectroscopy results indicated that calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite had grown on the fibers. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis suggested the presence of hydroxyl-carbonate-apatite. The results of a viability assay (MTT) and alkaline phosphatase activity analysis suggested that these mineralized matrices promote osteogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) when cultured in an osteogenic medium and have the potential to be used as a scaffold in bone tissue engineering. hASCs cultured in the presence of nanofibers in endothelial differentiation medium showed lower rates of proliferation than cells cultured without the nanofibers. However, endothelial cell markers were detected in cells cultured in the presence of nanofibers in endothelial differentiation medium. © 2013 Springer Science+Business Media.

Biodegradable polyurethane was synthesized by preparing aqueous polyurethane dispersion having poly(caprolactone) and poly(ethylene glycol) as soft segments. Montmorillonite particles were delaminated within the waterborne polyurethane to produce a nanocomposite. The triamcinolone acetonide (TA), an important corticoid drug, was dispersed into the nanocomposite followed by a drying step to produce an implantable drug delivery system. Infrared (FTIR) results demonstrated that the original chemical structure of the TA was preserved after incorporation into the nanocomposite. Wide angle (WAXS) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) results suggested that TA and clay do not dramatically change the morphology phase of the polymer although they can interact with each other. The presence of montmorillonite particles in the nanocomposite reduced the rate of TA release as compared to the pure polyurethane and enhanced the mechanical properties of the polymer. The overall results indicate that montmorillonite clay-based polyurethane nanocomposite could be potentially applied as local TA delivery system.

Two types of photopolymerizable and injectable polyurethane acrylates (PUAs), based on poly(propylene glycol) or poly(caprolactone diol) and hydroxyethyl methacrylate, were synthesized and characterized in order to obtain information regarding their use as an injectable material for biomedical applications. Structural characteristics of the biomaterials, including the degree of phase separation, were evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The viscosities of the obtained biomaterials make them suitable for injection, molding and photopolymerization using visible light, as demonstrated by the injection test. The cured polymers had mechanical properties comparable to those of certain soft tissues, such as skin. An in vitro cell-polyurethane cytotoxicity study was carried out with mesenchymal stem cells from rat tibias and femurs. The proliferation/viability of the cells in the presence of the synthesized material was assessed by the MTT assay, collagen synthesis analysis and the expression of alkaline phosphatase. The results that were obtained through the in vitro tests indicated that PUAs are cytocompatible. The in vivo experiments were correlated with the in vitro tests and showed low levels of toxicity for the obtained biomaterials. Histology cross-sections showed that the biomaterials induced no significant inflammatory reaction. Our study demonstrates the potential for using synthesized photocurable polyurethanes in biomedical applications. Furthermore, the obtained injectable polymer systems employ minimally invasive procedures and can be molded in situ before photopolymerization with visible light.

Foi sintetizada uma dispersão aquosa de poliuretano (PUD) na qual o poli(propileno glicol) (PPG) foi utilizado como segmento flexível. O segmento rígido foi baseado nos reagentes isoforona diisocianato (IPDI) e a diamina hidrazina (HZ), produzindo um poli(uretano-uréia). A PUD assim obtida foi modificada com Na+-montmorilonita (Na+-MMT) para gerar nanocompósitos (CPUD’s) com 1, 3 e 5 % de argila. Neste processo, o aumento do espaçamento basal das camadas de silicato foi provocado pela água sem necessidade de qualquer tratamento químico da argila. De acordo com as curvas de difração de raios X (XRD), os nanocompósitos obtidos apresentaram partículas de argila intercaladas com o polímero, enquanto a técnica de espalhamento de raios X de baixo ângulo (SAXS) detectou evidências de uma esfoliação parcial da montmorilonita. A esfoliação incompleta das partículas de argila indica re-agregação dos nanocomponentes (inicialmente delaminados na dispersão aquosa) durante a formação do filme. O grau de ligações de hidrogênio, avaliado por espectroscopia no infravermelho (FTIR), foi usado para investigar o efeito da argila no processo de separação de microfases do poliuretano e indicou uma tendência de perturbação da estrutura dos domínios do poliuretano com a presença da argila. A PUD exibiu valores de resistência à tensão na ruptura e alongamento na ruptura na faixa de 30 MPa e 1400% respectivamente. A adição de 1% de argila na PUD promoveu aumentos no módulo e tensão na ruptura de cerca de 230 e 20% respectivamente em relação ao polímero puro, sem perda significativa do alongamento na ruptura. Waterborne polyurethane (PUD) was synthesized by using poly(propylene glycol) (PPG) as soft segment. The hard segment was formed by extending isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) with hydrazine (HZ) producing poly(urethane-urea). PUD was reinforced with Na+-montmorillonite (Na+-MMT) to yield nanocomposites (CPUD’s) with 1, 3 and 5% of clay. Water was used as swelling agent to make the basal space of silicate layers widen without any chemical treatment. According to XRD curves, the nanocomposites showed intercalation of the polymer with respect to the clay, while small angle X ray scattering (SAXS) results showed that some degree of clay exfoliation was present in the produced film. The incomplete exfoliation of the clay proved that a re-aggregation process of the nanocomponents (originally delaminated in the aqueous dispersion) had occurred during film formation. The degree of hydrogen bonding, evaluated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), was used to investigate the effect of clay on the microphase separation of the polyurethane and indicated that the presence of the clay particles changed the structure of the polymer phase domains. PUD exhibited values of tensile strength and elongation at break about 30 MPa and 1400%, respectively. The incorporation of 1 weight % of MMT improved by 230 and 20% the modulus and strength on the polymer respectively, while keeping the elongation at break almost unchanged.

Foram sintetizados poliuretanos (PU) a partir de dispersoes aquosas (PUD fs) com potencial para serem aplicados na area de biomateriais. Nestes elastomeros foram utilizados poli(propileno glicol) (PPG) e/ou poli(Ã-caprolactona) (PCL) como segmento macio. O segmento rigido foi baseado nos reagentes isoforona diisocianato (IPDI) e a diamina hidrazina (HZ), produzindo poli(uretano-ureia) fs. Os PUD fs foram modificados com Na+-montmorilonita (Na+-MMT) e bentonita sodica para gerar nanocompositos (CPUD fs). Neste processo, o aumento do espacamento basal das camadas de silicato foi provocado pela agua sem necessidade de qualquer tratamento quimico da argila. O PCL e um poliester alifatico biodegradavel, porem, a taxa de degradacao depoliuretanos derivados de PPG/PCL foi muito lenta. Conforme ficou demonstrado nos testes de degradacao hidrolitica, a introducao de poli(etilenoglicol) (PEG) na cadeia do PU, aumentou o carater hidrofilico e causou o aumento da permeabilidade a agua. De acordo com as curvas de difracao de raios-X (XRD), os nanocompositos obtidosalcancaram uma intercalacao parcial e a argila ainda manteve sua estrutura preservada, conforme ficou demonstrado pela presenca de picos referentes a argila. Os resultados de raios-X de baixo angulo (SAXS) mostraram que a incorporacao de entidades inorganicas nos PUD fs gerou nanocompositos com espacamentos basais em torno de 25nm, caracteristicos de nanocompositos parcialmente esfoliados.O grau de ligacoes de hidrogenio, avaliado por espectroscopia no infravermelho (FTIR), foi usado para investigar o processo de separacao de microfases nos PU. A banda correspondente a absorcao da carbonila se dividiu em duas e as absorbancias relativas das duas bandas serviram de indice para avaliar a participacao deste grupo nas ligacoes de hidrogenio. Parametros estruturais, obtidos a partir de tratamentos matematicos de dados de SAXS mostraram que o poliuretano com segmentos macios derivados de poliester possui uma distancia repetitiva interdominio (L) maior que aquela de polieter. Ao contrario do esperado, as temperaturas de degradacao de PUD fs, examinadas poranalise termogravimetria (TG), foram praticamente as mesmas daquelas de nanocompositos. Medidas feitas por calorimetria exploratoria diferencial (DSC), mostraram que a temperatura de transicao vitrea (Tg) de um nanocomposito pode ser maior ou menor que aquela do polimero puro dependendo do grau de interacao entreos componentes. Os testes mecanicos realizados em PUD fs exibiram valores de resistencia a tensao na ruptura e alongamento na ruptura de ate 50 MPa e 1400% respectivamente. Entre os nanocompositos, o nanocomposito com teor de argila de 1% demonstrou o melhordesempenho das propriedades mecanicas Testes preliminares in vitro demonstraram que o poliuretano derivado de PCL e biocompativel com osteoblastos e estas celulas podem aderir e proliferar no material.Tais materiais biodegradaveis sao extremamente atrativos e demonstraram ter potencial para serem utilizados como poliuretanos biomedicos Waterborne polyurethane (PUDs) with potential for application as biomaterial were synthesized. Polypropyleneglycol (PPG) and/or polycaprolactonediol (PCL) were used as soft segment. The hard segment was formed by extending isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) with hydrazine (HZ) producing poly (urethaneurea) s. PUDs were reinforced with Na+-montmorillonite (Na+-MMT) and sodium bentonite to give nanocomposites (CPUDs). Here, water was used as swellingagent to make the basal space of silicate layers widen without any chemical treatment. PCL is a biodegradable aliphatic polyester, but the degradation rate of PPG/PCL based polyurethane was very slow. Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) enhanced hydrophilicity and caused an increase in water permeability as showed by hydrolytic tests. According to XRD curves, although the clay structure was present in some extent, asshowed by the presence of peaks, the obtained nanocomposites achieved some degree of intercalation. Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) results showed that the incorporation of inorganic species into PUDs yielded nanocomposites with nanocomponents intercalated to larger distances (25nm) characteristic of exfoliated nocomposites.To investigate the degree of hydrogen bonding and microphases mixing of the polyurethanes and nanocomposites, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) experiments were performed. The carbonyl absorption was split into two bands, and the relative absorbances of the two carbonyl bands, served as an index of the degree to which this group participates in hydrogen bonding. Structural parameters, obtained from mathematical manipulation of SAXS data showed that polyurethane based in polyester in its soft segment has longer inter-domain repeat distance (L) than that one based in polyether. Surprisingly, the degradation temperatures, examined by thermogravimetric analysis(TG), of PUDs, were almost the same of the nanocomposites (CPUDs). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements showed that glass transition temperature (Tg) of CPUD can be lower or higher than that of the PUD. Mechanical tests performed in PUDs exhibited values of tensile strength and elongation at break up to 50Mpa and 1400% respectively. CPUD with 1% of MMT content demonstrated the best mechanical properties among the nanocomposites. Preliminary in vitro experiment has shown that polycaprolactone based polyurethane isbiocompatible with osteoblasts and these cells could adhere and proliferate on the material. Such biodegradable materials can find potential application as uniquely attractive biomedical polyurethanes.

FAPEMIG - Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais Biotêxteis constituem uma classe emergente dentro do campo de biomateriais. Devido a características intrínsecas, como leveza, resistência, adaptabilidade, esse tipo de estrutura pode imitar tecidos biológicos e ser empregada no reparo de regiões danificadas do corpo. A estrutura primária de um biotêxtil baseia-se em fibras, sendo que essas podem ser de origem natural, metálica, sintética, e processadas em estruturas não ordenadas (tecido não tecido) ou orientadas, como fios. Em biomateriais, a orientação das fibras pode atuar como sinalizador topográfico favorecendo a adesão celular ao material. Nesse contexto, o presente projeto investigou o desenvolvimento de fios contínuos de nanofibras eletrofiadas (NF-Y) a partir da blenda policaprolactona/seda (PCL/S) incorporada com pontos quânticos de carbono (CDs) com o propósito de aplicação em biotextil Micro/nanofibras da blenda PCL/S tem sido investigadas para aplicação biomédica, devido a combinação interessante entre propriedades mecânicas e bioatividade. Na primeira etapa do trabalho, foram investigados os efeitos na morfologia, resistência e processabilidade dos NF-Ys decorrentes da adição de seda (0-70%), variação da taxa de ejeção e velocidade de rotação funil coletor. Dentre as blendas investigadas, a proporção de PCL/S 50:50 demonstrou o melhor balanço entre processabilidade (continuidade do processo sem quebras recorrentes), propriedades mecânicas, maior uniformidade nos resultados e morfologia. Na segunda etapa, foi realizada a síntese dos CDs empregando proteína de seda como precursor e pirolise em micro-ondas, sendo o material obti do caracterizado por FTIR, RMN, UV-Vis, Fluorescência e MET. CDs com elevada fluorescência, diâmetro médio em torno de 9,4 nm e com grupamentos amina, amida e carboxila na superfície foram obtidos. Em seguida, os CDs foram incorporados (0-3% m/m) a solução de PCL/S 50:50 e eletrofiados em NF-Y a partir dos parâmetros estabelecidos na primeira etapa. Os NF-Ys PCL/S/CDs foram investigados por MEV, ensaios mecânicos, FTIR, ensaios de fluorescência e ensaio biológico. A adição de CDs aos NF-Ys de PCL/S resultou em estruturas com elevada fluorescência, contribuiu para o aumento da resistência mecânica (adição 1-2% CDs), e redução do diâmetro das nanofibras.Os melhores resultados em relação a intensidade da emissão fluorescente e resistência mecânica foram obtidos nos NF-Ys PCL/S 1% CDs. Somado a isso, os NF-Ys PCL/S/CDs apresentaram baixa toxicidade com resultados de viabilidade celular acima de 80%, mesmo quando o maior conteúdo de CDs (3% m/m) foi testado. Na última etapa do trabalho foi desenvolvido um protótipo de biotextil através da técnica de tricotagem em um dispositivo doméstico de i-cord. Os NF-Y desenvolvidos demonstraram potencial para serem empregados em biotêxteis, com várias possíveis funcionalidades como biosensor e atividade antimicrobiana. Através do uso de uma biomacromolécula que possui excelente desempenho mecânico, associada a um polímero sintético dúctil e biocompatível, e nanopartículas capazes de emitir fluorescência, buscou-se o desenvolvimento de um material têxtil, resistente, biodegradável, biocompatível e multifuncional. Biotextiles are an emergent field within biomaterials. Due to inherent properties such as lightweight, resistance, and tunability, this kind of structure can resemble biological tissues and be used to treat damaged body parts. In addition to that, textiles are flexible and able to adapt to complex anatomy. Biotextiles are primarily built from fibers, which can be natural, metallic, and synthetic, and combined into it randomly structures (nonwoven) or assembling it into oriented structures, such as yarns. In biomaterials, fiber orientation can act as a topographic clue that can contribute to cell adhesion. In this context, the present project proposed the development of continuous electrospun nanofiber yarns (NF-Ys), based on Polycaprolactone/silk/Carbon Quantum Dots (CDs) to be used in biotextiles. PCL/S micro/nanofibers can provide an interesting combination of mechanical properties and bioactivity. The present work was divided into three stages. Firstly, it investigated the effect of compositional and processing parameters, such as silk content (0-70%), flow rate, and rotatory collector speed on nanofibers morphology, tensile properties, and processability. Among the PCL/S formulations tested, PCL/S 50:50 demonstrated the most adequated balance between processability (continuity of electrospinning without breakage), tensile properties, and morphology. In the second phase, CDs were synthesized by microwave pyrolysis using silk protein as a precursor. CDs were investigated by TEM, FTIR, RMN, UV-Vis, and fluorescence assay. Highly fluorescent CDs were obtained with a mean diameter of 9,4 nm and having amide, amine, and carboxyl groups on the surface. The CDs were incorporated (0-3% w/w) to PCL/silk solution and electrospun into NF-Ys, and the resultant materials evaluated by SEM, mechanical tests, FTIR, Fluorescence and, biological assay (MTT). The addition of CDs to PCL/S NF-Ys resulted in highly fluorescent structures, contributed to increasing strength (1-2% CDs), and reduction of nanofiber diameter. NF-Y PCL/S 1% CDs had the best results considering fluorescence emission, and mechanical properties. In addition to that, PCL/S/CDs NF-Ys demonstrated low cytotoxicity, with cell viability results above 80%. In the last stage of this work, a biotextile prototype was knitted using an i-cord domestic device and PCL/S 1% CD. Such yarns show the potential to be assembled into larger structures such as biotextiles, with possible multi functionalities such as antimicrobial, and biosensing. By using a biomacromolecule that possesses outstanding mechanical properties, combined to a ductile polymer and highly fluorescent nanoparticles, it was proposed the production of fluorescent, resistant, biodegradable and biocompatible nanofiber yarns.