Synthesis of Polyvinyl Formal Sponge for Wound Care Dressing Application

Abstract

In an effort to seek poly(vinyl formal) (PVFM) foams based wound dressing pad material, a series of foamed PVFM materials have been synthesized under varied conditions. The influence of conditions on the properties of PVFM foam, such as mechanical properties, water absorption, pore structure and bulk density, is well discussed individually. It has been shown that both the reactant and acid catalyst affect the degree and speed of acetalization, therefore the mechanical properties, pores continuity and water absorption of the resultant sample. The addition of Na2CO3, surfactant and CMCNa are mainly influencing the porous structure as well as the mechanical properties and water absorption. One best sample with balanced properties is obtained. It possesses higher mechanical strength and water absorption while the other properties are similar, comparing with a commercial surgical PVFM sponge (YJ-1) currently used.

A New Blending Method for the Preparation of Macroporous Open‐cell Polyvinyl Formaldehyde Foams with High Water‐Absorption Capacity

“…Three methods are generally used for the preparation of PVF foams with good pore structure: [13][14][15][16] addition of a foaming agent, mechanical agitation, and addition of a pore-forming agent. The latter two methods have the disadvantage of being complex processes and also involve a high cost.…”

“…In addition, to having the general properties of foam plastics, PVF foams have low toxicity with the advantage of being biodegradable and can be used in medicine, cleaning, washing, filtration, environmental protection, etc. [12–13] . The excellent performance of PVF foams is mainly due to internal pore structure.…”

“…[6][7] Usually, PVA with a high degree of polymerization has strong intra-and intermolecular hydrogen bonds and can be used for the preparation of PVF foams. [8][9][10][11] In addition, to having the general properties of foam plastics, PVF foams have low toxicity with the advantage of being biodegradable and can be used in medicine, cleaning, washing, filtration, environmental protection, etc.. [12][13] The excellent performance of PVF foams is mainly due to internal pore structure.…”