Preparation and properties of novel biodegradable polyurethane networks based on castor oil and poly(ethylene glycol)

Polyurethane networks based on castor oil (CO) as a renewable resource polyol and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) with tunable biodegradation rates as potential candidates for biomedical implants and tissue engineering were synthesized through the reaction of epoxy-terminated polyurethane prepolymers (EPUs) with 1,6-hexamethylene diamine curing agent. EPUs themselves were prepared from reaction of glycidol and isocyanate terminated polyurethane prepolymers made from CO or PEG and 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate. All of the polymers were characterized by conventional methods, and their physical, mechanical and viscoelastic properties were studied. The results showed that the degradation rate and mechanical properties of final products could be controlled by the ratio of PEG or CO based EPUs in the final products. Increasing the PEG based EPU content caused an increase in hydrolytic degradation rate and mechanical properties. Evaluation of the L-929 fibroblast cells' interaction with prepared polymeric films showed nontoxic behavior and good cytocompatibility.