Controlled Release Utilizing Initiated Chemical Vapor Deposited (iCVD) of Polymeric Nanolayers

This review will focus on the controlled release of pharmaceuticals and other organic molecules utilizing polymeric nanolayers grown by initiated chemical vapor deposited (iCVD). The iCVD layers are able conform to the geometry of the underlying substrate, facilitating release from one- and two-dimensional nanostructures with high surface area. The reactors for iCVD film growth can be customized for specific substrate geometries and scaled to large overall dimensions. The absence of surface tension in vapor deposition processes allows the synthesis of pinhole-free layers, even for iCVD layers <10 nm thick. Such ultrathin layers also provide rapid transport of the drug across the polymeric layer. The mild conditions of the iCVD process avoid damage to the drug which is being encapsulated. Smart release is enabled by iCVD hydrogels which are responsive to pH, temperature, or light. Biodegradable iCVD layers have also be demonstrated for drug release.

Automated summary

This review focuses on the controlled release of pharmaceuticals and organic molecules using polymeric nanolayers grown by initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD). The technology allows for customization of reactors for various substrate geometries and can scale to large dimensions. iCVD layers can provide pinhole-free and ultrathin films, with rapid drug transport and mild conditions that avoid drug damage. Additionally, smart release is enabled by iCVD hydrogels responsive to pH, temperature, or light, and biodegradable iCVD layers have been demonstrated for drug release.