Stereochemistry-controlled mechanical properties and degra-dation in 3D-printable photosets

Anissa Khalfa, Matthew L Becker, Andrew Dove

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

121 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Stereochemistry provides an appealing handle by which to control the properties of small molecules and polymers. While it is established that stereochemistry in linear polymers affects their bulk mechanical properties, the application of this concept to photocurable networks could allow for resins that can accommodate the increasing demand for mechanically diverse materials without the need to significantly change their formulation. Herein, we exploit cis and trans stereochemistry in pre-resin oligomers to create photoset materials with mechanical properties and degradation rates that are controlled by their stereochemistry and molecular weight. Both the synthesis of stereopure (cis or trans) acrylate-terminated pre-polymers and the subsequent UV-triggered cross-linking occurred with a retention of stereochemistry, close to 100%. The stereochemistry of a 4 kDa oligomer within the resin enabled the tuning of the formulation to either a fast eroding, soft cis elastomer or a stiff trans plastic that is more resistant to degradation. These results demonstrate that stereochemistry is a powerful tool to modify the stiffness, toughness, and degradability of high-resolution, three-dimensional printed scaffolds from the same formulated ratio of components.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)17510-17516
JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society
Volume143
Issue number42
Early online date15 Oct 2021
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 15 Oct 2021

Keywords

  • oligomers
  • photocurable
  • printed scaffolds
  • stereochemistry

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Stereochemistry-controlled mechanical properties and degra-dation in 3D-printable photosets'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this