Controlled Structuring of Hyaluronan Films by Phase Separation and Inversion

This work explores application of phase separation phenomena for structuring of films made from hyaluronan. A time-sequenced dispensing of different solution mixtures was applied under rotation of hyaluronan-covered substrates to generate surface textures. This method is applicable in direct surface modification or cover layer deposition. Changes in the surface topography were characterized by atomic force microscopy, optical microscopy, and contact and non-contact profilometry. The mechanical properties of the surface-modified self-supporting films were compared using a universal testing machine. Experimental results show that diverse hyaluronan-based surface reliefs and self-supporting films with improved mechanical properties can be prepared using a newly designed multi-step phase separation process without the need for sacrificial removable templates or additives.

Automated summary

This study explores the application of phase separation phenomena to structure hyaluronan films. By dispensing different solution mixtures under rotation of hyaluronan-covered substrates in a time-sequenced manner, surface textures are generated. The method can be used for direct surface modification or cover layer deposition. Surface topography changes were characterized using atomic force microscopy, optical microscopy, and contact and non-contact profilometry. The mechanical properties of the surface-modified self-supporting films were tested using a universal testing machine. Experimental results demonstrate that diverse surface reliefs and self-supporting films with improved mechanical properties can be prepared using a newly designed multi-step phase separation process without the need for sacrificial removable templates or additives.