Degradation Behaviour of Zeolite Filled Polyurethanes under <i>In Vitro</i> Aging Process

Abstract

In this study the degradation and ion/zeolite release processes of in vitro aged zeolite loaded polyurethane composites were evaluated. Two in vitro artificial aging solutions were used; artificial lysosomal fluid (ALF) and Gamble ́s solution and the total exposure time was 12 weeks. Periodically, SEM micrographs were taken of the surface of polyester type polyurethane-zeolite composites. After exposure to ALF solution the samples showed round holes and a rougher surface in general over time. Micrographs of the samples immersed in Gamble’s solution exhibited different signs of degradation with damage features on the surfaces, understood as black holes and a rougher surface pattern. In addition varying amount of salt was also observed on the surfaces that might influence the ion/zeolite release. Furthermore, the zeolite filler caused remarkable changes in mechanical properties after the aging process, which could not be discerned.