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Processes of Obtaining Nanostructured Materials with a Hierarchical Porous Structure on the Example of Alginate Aerogels

Summary

Scientists created lightweight, sponge-like materials called aerogels made from alginate (a substance derived from seaweed) with special internal structures. They tested three different techniques to create these structures: using soap-like surfactants, using a plant protein called zein, and using pressurized carbon dioxide. Each method produced materials with different pore sizes and characteristics, making them suitable for different medical applications like delivering medications slowly or growing cells for tissue repair.

Background

Materials with hierarchical porous structures combining micro-, meso-, and macropores are increasingly important for specialized applications. Aerogels represent a promising class of materials for implementing hierarchical porous structures through various fabrication methods. Sodium alginate is one of the most widely used substances for producing biodegradable, highly porous materials.

Objective

This study presents a comprehensive comparison of three methods for forming hierarchical porous structures in alginate-based aerogels: employing surfactants (Pluronic F-68), using zein as a pore-forming component, and foaming in a carbon dioxide medium. The goal was to characterize the structural properties of resulting aerogels for potential applications in drug delivery and cell culturing.

Results

Micro-CT analysis showed macropores of 16-323 μm (surfactant method), 5-195 μm (zein method), and 20 μm-3 mm (CO2 foaming). Surfactant and zein methods maintained high specific surface areas (592-673 m²/g) and mesopore volumes (4.0-17.7 cm³/g), while CO2 foaming produced lower values (112-239 m²/g, 0.6-2.1 cm³/g). SEM and nitrogen porosimetry confirmed hierarchical porous structures in all samples.

Conclusion

All three methods successfully created hierarchical porous structures in alginate aerogels with distinct characteristics. Surfactant and zein methods are suitable for controlled drug delivery systems due to high mesopore volumes, while CO2 foaming provides extensive macropores for cell culture applications. The choice of method allows tailoring material properties for specific biomedical applications.
  • Published in:Gels,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/gels10120845, PMID: 39727602
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