Porous Polymer Surfaces

Basic overview
This novel technique allows the user to create porous films with micron to nano scale pores whose depth, shape and function can all be controlled in a simple, robust, single step process. These films have great potential as the pores can be engineered to contain a variety of interesting chemical and biological agents which can add function to the films.

Trinity College Dublin

Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices

Possible Applications
The addition of materials to the porous surface enables a variety of applications depending on the choice of embedded active agents including:

Medical Devices
MM Drug infused surface coatings on heart stents and catheters MM Trans-dermal drug delivery

Biological Applications
MM Scaffolds to promote cell growth the pore dimensions are such

to enhance cell development

MM Infused cell growth as above with additives to feed cell growth

Surface Science
MM Material storage storing gases on a surface MM Conductive films by embedding conductive material into

the pores

Filter technology
This figure shows two polymer films and illustrates the flexibility and tuneability of the process. The examples above show scanning electron microscopy images of both cylindrical pores and conical-flask shape pores formed using our technique. MM Filter membrane can act as a standalone film and filter particles

in gases and liquids

MM Functionalised filter membrane as above, with the inclusion of

chemicals in the membrane to treat or infuse particles into the liquid or gas being filter or treated.

more

contact

Further information: Brendan Ring Commercialisation Manager E: Brendan.Ring@tcd.ie T: +353 (0)1 896 3088
Trinity College Dublin 2010. All rights reserved.

Porous Polymer Surfaces

What problem does it solve/advantages?

Alternative porous polymer production methods require costly, complex and multistage processing. One example of a multistage production method utilizes microspheres as a template followed by solvent washing. This technique is limited in its control in terms of both the total porosity and the pore geometry due to the use of the solid template. Another technique uses thermally induced phase separation. When freeze-dried, a highly porous but disordered product remains. Our technique addresses these issues of control over porosity and pore order in a simple and straightforward manner. Furthermore loading of active agents is typically achieved by solution dosing following porous film production whereas our technique has the potential to load the active agents in a single step during film formation.

Confocal microscopy is used to show the adhesion of the cells to our porous substrate as part of research into the biocompatibility of the material

Advantage over existing technologies

MM Single step synthesis complete production process integrated to

one machine

MM Simple to operate control over pore morphology dependent on

easily adjustable reaction conditions

MM Potential for a diverse range of functionalities simple production

technique allows for integration of many different materials into the membranes.

MM High throughput capable of scaling up to industrial production MM Cost effective simple process with low material requirements

Using scanning electron microscopy, the cross-section of a polymer film is shown where we have tuned the process to move from a 2 dimensional layer of pores to a polymeric foam

The technology and fundamentals behind its formation is well understood and is at product development stage. We welcome enquiries from companies regarding applications of this technology or seeking to license this technology. There is also a great opportunity to form a start-up company to manufacture and/or distribute these products. More detailed description of the technology and Patent Status
The technique used to produce the various surfaces has been protected under a number of patents. These cover the novel processes for the production of elongated pores and control of pore depth. WO/2009/069110 - A Method for Producing an Array of Pores of Cylindrical Shape in a Polymer Film, and Polymer Film Produced According to the Method. IE/S2009/0801 - Patent filed, currently at PCT stage.

The opportunity

Principal Inventor Prof. John Boland, Director of the CRANN Institute

Prof. Boland has 4 patents and over 100 publications in a broad range of areas including detailed examinations of silicon surfaces, graphene, carbon nanotubes and a variety of nanowires and nanowire assemblies. He has performed world-leading research focused on understanding nanoscale processing and material properties for advanced device applications.

www.crann.tcd.ie

CRANN located in Trinity College Dublin is Irelands flagship nano research institute. We are focused on producing and commercialising world-class research and are deeply integrated with industry. We have ongoing collaborations with large multinationals and small to medium local enterprise. The 250 strong research team is involved right across the spectrum from materials, magnetics, energy and drug development right thorough to product development of medical devices, sensors and integrated circuits. This is facilitated by our state of the art Advanced Microscopy Laboratory www.crann.tcd.ie/index/Facilities/AdvancedMicroscopyLaboratory in conjunction with our cleanroom, optics labs and business incubation facilities.