Polyhydroxyethylmethacrylate/polyhydroxybutyrate composite membranes for fluoride release

Controlled release technology is a recent technology which has considerable potential in the fields of medicine, pharmacy, and agriculture. Fluoride ion is commonly used in the preventive treatment of decay, and when provided with extra fluoride, children living in regions that lack fluoride benefit from it. For the present study, clinical properties of an intraoral controlled release fluoride delivery system were considered. The preparation of a controlled release membrane system is described. Polyhydroxyethylmethacrylate/polyhydroxybutyrate composite systems were examined as fluoride carriers. Polymeric membranes were prepared by photopolymerization and then character-ized. Contact angles and swelling ratios of fluoride-loaded membranes were determined. The surface morphology of the microporous membranes were examined by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In vitro fluoride release studies were carried out in an artificial saliva medium. The amount of released fluoride was determined and the effect of medium pH and temperature on fluoride release was investigated. (C) 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 87: 976-981,2003.