Antifouling IPNs made of poly(ethylene glycol)/poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) using gamma radiation

Biofilm in medical devices causes health complications because of the accumulation of biomatter onto the surface. One alternative to deal with it is the use of polymers that prevent the adhesion of microorganisms. Poly(ethyleneglycol) (PEG) is a highly hydrophilic, biocompatible, and capable to host biomatter. PEG-Interpenetrated polymer networks (IPN) present high degree of water retention, porosity, and interconnectivity: desired properties for antifouling polymers. We present the synthesis of PEG/poly( N -isopropylacrylamide) (PNiPAAm)-IPN in two steps through radiation and conventional chemistry, which were characterized by infrared spectroscopy. Additionally, the morphology, thermo-responsiveness, and cell repellence were evaluated using microscopy, swelling studies, thermal properties, and fibroblast adhesion. Graphical Abstract