Synthetic polymers: Structure and Properties. Biodegradable polymers (PSEP)

The group Synthetic polymers: Structure and Properties. Biodegradable polymers (PSEP) is specialized in the synthesis of new polymers, their physical and chemical characterization, and the study of their properties. It is mainly involved in the development of biodegradable polymers and the study of degradation processes (hydrolytic, enzymatic and thermal). At the present time, the group has two main objectives: 

• Development of biodegradable polymers for specialty applications such as bioabsorbable surgical sutures, drug delivery systems and scaffolds for tissue engineering. In general, the investigations are focused on the comprenhension of the influence of microstructure and polymer composition on final properties and degradability since it is a crucial point to design new biomaterials with tailored properties. As far as the development of sutures is concerned, the group pays attention to the effect of adding nanofibers, accelerating or retardant agents for degradation, and compounds with pharmacological activity.
• Study of nanocomposites prepared from degradable polyesters and poly(ester amide)s. The group has previously conducted extensive works concerning synthesis, characterization and evaluation of structure, properties and crystallization behavior of such polymers. Now, it is interested in the improvement of properties and the possibility to produce degradable useful materials for commodity applications. Furthermore, the group aims to clarify the influence of nanoparticles on crystallization processes.