Silane Coupling Agent Modifies the Mechanical Properties of a Chitosan Microfiber |
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Authors: | Yuki Shirosaki Toshinobu Okabayashi Saki Yasutomi |
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Affiliation: | Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology, 1-1 Sensui-cho, Tobata-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 804-8550, Japan; (T.O.); (S.Y.) |
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Abstract: | Chitosan microfibers are widely used in medical applications because they have favorable inherent properties. However, their mechanical properties require further improvement. In the present study, a trimethoxysilane aldehyde (TMSA) crosslinking agent was added to chitosan microfibers to improve their tensile strength. The chitosan microfibers were prepared using a coagulation method. The tensile strength of the chitosan microfibers was improved by crosslinking them with TMSA, even when only a small amount was used (less than 1%). TMSA did not change the orientation of the chitosan molecules. Furthermore, aldehyde derived from TMSA did not remain, and siloxane units were formed in the microfibers. |
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Keywords: | chitosan silane coupling agent microfiber crosslinking mechanical strength |
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