Polylactic acid-based polyurethane/polyamide 6,12 and graphene nanocomposite: Structure and physical property study for packaging application

Biological Effects, Applications and Design Strategies of Medical Polyurethanes Modified by Nanomaterials

Polyurethane (PU) has wide application and popularity as medical apparatus due to its unique structural properties relationship. However, there are still some problems with medical PUs, such as a lack of functionality, insufficient long-term implantation safety, undesired stability, etc. With the rapid development of nanotechnology, the nanomodification of medical PU provides new solutions to these clinical problems. The introduction of nanomaterials could optimize the biocompatibility, antibacterial effect, mechanical strength, and degradation of PUs via blending or surface modification, therefore expanding the application range of medical PUs. This review summarizes the current applications of nano-modified medical PUs in diverse fields. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms in efficiency optimization are analyzed in terms of the enhanced biological and mechanical properties critical for medical use. We also conclude the preparation schemes and related parameters of nano-modified medical PUs, with discussions about the limitations and prospects. This review indicates the current status of nano-modified medical PUs and contributes to inspiring novel and appropriate designing of PUs for desired clinical requirements.

Conjugated Polymer/Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites—State-of-the-Art

Graphene oxide is an imperative modified form of graphene. Similar to graphene, graphene oxide has gained vast interest for the myriad of industrial applications. Conjugated polymers or conducting polymers are well known organic materials having conducting backbone. These polymers have semiconducting nature due to π-conjugation along the main chain. Doping and modification have been used to enhance the electrical conductivity of the conjugated polymers. The nanocomposites of the conjugated polymers have been reported with the nanocarbon nanofillers including graphene oxide. This review essentially presents the structure, properties, and advancements in the field of conducting polymer/graphene oxide nanocomposites. The facile synthesis, processability, and physical properties of the polymer/graphene oxide nanocomposites have been discussed. The conjugated polymer/graphene oxide nanocomposites have essential significance for the supercapacitors, solar cells, and anti-corrosion materials. Nevertheless, the further advanced properties and technical applications of the conjugated polymer/graphene oxide nanocomposites need to be explored to overcome the challenges related to the high performance.