Degradable stereoelastomers for water barrier applications
Innovative thiol-yne degradable stereoelastomers with controlled stereochemistry offer competitive water barrier properties, ideal for medical device coatings and bioelectronics. These materials promise thermal stability, easy synthesis, and resorbability.
Overview
Duke University presents a pioneering development in degradable stereoelastomers, designed specifically for water barrier applications. These innovative thiol-yne polymers, featuring controlled cis versus trans alkene stereochemistry, exhibit unique crystallization behaviors that significantly enhance water vapor permeation resistance. With barrier performance comparable to commercially available poly(ethylene terephthalate), these materials are particularly suitable for coatings on implantable medical devices and bioelectronics, offering potential extensions into packaging materials.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Stereochemistry Control: Varying proportions of cis and trans isomers allow for precise control over crystallization and barrier properties.
- Barrier Performance: Comparable to poly(ethylene terephthalate), providing excellent water vapor resistance.
- Thermal Stability and Resorbability: Demonstrates good thermal stability and has been shown to be resorbable in small animal models.
- Ease of Synthesis: The synthesis process is straightforward, facilitating scalability and manufacturability.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology has undergone validation in laboratory environments, demonstrating feasibility and performance in controlled settings. Further validation and customization are needed to meet specific performance requirements for broader applications.
About Duke University
Duke University is a mid-sized, comprehensive private research university in Durham, North Carolina, anchored by a globally recognized academic medical center. Co-located campus and clinical facilities enable rapid bench-to-bedside translation, and shared core laboratories are accessible to external partners. Proximity to Research Triangle Park links Duke to a dense network of R&D-intensive companies, supported by centralized corporate engagement for sponsored research and talent pipelines. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP strategy, licensing, startups, and industry collaboration.
Inquire about this partnering listing
Looking for
Industry applications
delivered to your inbox.