Artificial skin I. Preparation and properties of pluronic F‐127 gels for treatment of burns

Abstract

The preparation of block polymer surface‐active agents derived solely from propylene oxide and ethylene oxide is described. The physical properties of a nonionic surfactant of 12,500 molecular weight, Pluronic F‐127, are presented. The toxicity data of the polymeric series is reviewed. The preparation of cold aqueous solutions of the F‐127 solution, to which silver salts and other medicaments are then added, is described. By raising the temperature, these fluid liquids are then converted to strong “ringing” gels or viscous ointments which are suitable for application to a burn wound or abraded skin area. The factors involved in altering the yield strength of the gel are presented.