Surface modification of polyethersulfone membranes by blending triblock copolymers of methoxyl poly(ethylene glycol)–polyurethane–methoxyl poly(ethylene glycol)

The surface of polyethersulfone (PES) membrane was modified by blending triblock copolymers of methoxyl poly(ethylene glycol)–polyurethane–methoxyl poly(ethylene glycol) (mPEG-PU-mPEG), which were synthesized through solution polymerization with mPEG Mns of 500 and 2000, respectively. The PES and PES/mPEG-PU-mPEG blended membranes were prepared through spin coating coupled with liquid–liquid phase separation. FTIR and 1H NMR analysis confirmed that the triblock copolymers were successfully synthesized. The functional groups and morphologies of the membranes were studied by ATR-FTIR and SEM, respectively. It was found that the triblock copolymers were blended into PES membranes successfully, and the morphologies of the blended membranes were somewhat different from PES membrane. The water contact angles and platelet adhesion were decreased after blending mPEG-PU-mPEG into PES membranes. Meanwhile, the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) for the blended membranes increased. The anti-protein-fouling property and permeation property of the blended membranes improved obviously. SEM observation and 3-(4, 5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay proved the surfaces of the blended membranes promoted human hepatocytes adhesion and proliferation better than PES membrane.

.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► A simple method for the synthesis of novel triblock copolymers of mPEG-PU-mPEG.
► The copolymers could be blended into PES membrane directly.
► The hydrophilicity and biocompatibility of PES membrane were improved significantly.
► The method employed in this study could also be used to modify other type of membranes.