Degradation Behavior of Polymers Used as Coating Materials for Drug Delivery—A Basic Review

Abstract

The purpose of the work was to emphasize the main differences and similarities in the degradation mechanisms in the case of polymeric coatings compared with the bulk ones. Combined with the current background, this work reviews the properties of commonly utilized degradable polymers in drug delivery, the factors affecting degradation mechanism, testing methods while offering a retrospective on the evolution of the controlled release of biodegradable polymeric coatings. A literature survey on stability and degradation of different polymeric coatings, which were thoroughly evaluated by different techniques, e.g., polymer mass loss measurements, surface, structural and chemical analysis, was completed. Moreover, we analyzed some shortcomings of the degradation behavior of biopolymers in form of coatings and briefly proposed some solving directions to the main existing problems (e.g., improving measuring techniques resolution, elucidation of complete mathematical analysis of the different degradation mechanisms). Deep studies are still necessary on the dynamic changes which occur to biodegradable polymeric coatings which can help to envisage the future performance of synthesized films designed to be used as medical devices with application in drug delivery.

Enhanced In Vitro Wound Healing Using PVA/B-PEI Nanofiber Mats: A Promising Wound Therapeutic Agent against ESKAPE and Opportunistic Pathogens

“…32 The volume fraction of the polymer differs for bulk degradation compared to surface degradation, where the matrix directly encounters the medium rapidly and induces drug release. 33,34 Polymeric NFs play a key role in the release of drugs instantaneously after having contact with the medium. Due to the high surface-to-volume ratio and size of the matrix polymer, NFs are well suited for drug release mechanisms and also exhibit the advantage of physiological clearance due to their size.…”

Progress in bioactive surface coatings on biodegradable Mg alloys: A critical review towards clinical translation

“…However, polymeric coatings are relatively free from spatial defects compared to ceramic coatings. However, polymers are prone to hydrolysis in physiological media, which rapidly increases permeability and facilitates the absorption of aggressive ions [ 389 ]. Once corrosion starts at the coating/substrate interface, H 2 evolution cause formation of blisters.…”

Sirolimus Release from Biodegradable Polymers for Coronary Stent Application: A Review

“…However, biodegradable polymers with different properties present different drug-release behaviors. Molecular weight, composition, glass transition temperature, crystallinity, hydrophobicity, and the degradation rate are important properties affecting the behavior of polymers [ 22 ]. Additionally, the coating process employed, such as conformal coating or abluminal coating, and the solvent used also affect the drug-release behavior of biodegradable polymers.…”