Polyoctanediol citrate–ZnO composite films: Preparation, characterization and release kinetics of nanoparticles from polymer matrix

• Composite material from biocompatible polyoctanediol citrate and ZnO nanoparticles.
• Material properties are dependent on ZnO concentration within the composite.
• Determined ZnO nanoparticle release kinetics profile and anti-bacterial properties.

In this paper we describe a novel composite material consistent of citric acid-based polyester elastomer and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). Produced material was characterised by field emission electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infra-red spectroscopy and mechanical tests. Release kinetics of NPs from the polymer matrix and anti-bacterial properties of the composite are also reported. We demonstrate that the composite morphology, mechanical integrity and the relative amount of NPs released under physiological conditions are strongly affected by variation of the initial concentration of NPs in the composite mixture during the fabrication process.