Polyethers for biomedical applications: Bulk and surface characterisation of crosslinked blends of poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(propylene oxide)

Abstract

Bulk and surface properties of crosslinked and non‐crosslinked blends of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(propylene oxide) (PPOX) were studied for the elucidation of the behaviour of these materials in contact with blood. In the crosslinked blends the hydrophilic character increased with increasing PEO content, as concluded from swelling experiments and contact angle determinations. D.s.c. and dynamic mechanical measurements indicated the occurrence of phase separation in the blends and d.s.c. showed that on equilibration with water the PEO phase loses its crystallinity. F.t.‐i.r.‐a.t.r. analysis of the surface of crosslinked PPOX‐PEO films showed an enrichment of the surface with PEO.These observations indicate that the good blood‐compatibility of PPOX‐PEO blends might be explained by the presence of an amorphous, PEO‐enriched, hydrophilic surface.