Polymer composite for controlled release or membrane formation
First Claim
1. A method for making a composite polymeric device comprising:
- providing a compound to be released,incorporating the compound to be released into polymer spheres,mixing the polymer spheres into a liquified polymer matrix, andsolidifying the polymer matrix.
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Accused Products
Abstract
The present invention is a method to produce novel composites based on microcapsules or microspheres embedded in contiuous polymeric matrices. Both non-bioerodible and erodible polymers can be used. Material can be incorporated into the microcapsules or microspheres for subsequent release. In one embodiment of the present invention, spheres are homogeneously dispersed in a polymer matrix and then forced to release their contents by exposure to temperature, light or ultrasound. Alternatively, polymers which degrade as a function of time or hydrolysis can be used for controlled releases. The polymer composites have completely different properties from either a continuous polymer matrix or microcapsules or microspheres and are therefore useful for a wide variety of applications. When carbon tetrachloride is the incorporated material, the film is useful as a flame retarding device. When foaming agents are used, especially UV or heat sensitive materials, gas can be evolved inside each capsul
The Government has rights in this invention pursuant to Grant Number 5-R01-GM26698 awarded by the Department of Health and Human Services.
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Citations
16 Claims
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1. A method for making a composite polymeric device comprising:
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providing a compound to be released, incorporating the compound to be released into polymer spheres, mixing the polymer spheres into a liquified polymer matrix, and solidifying the polymer matrix. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 16)
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8. A method for forming a porous membrane comprising
providing polymer spheres, mixing the polymer spheres within a liquified polymeric matrix, and rupturing the polymer spheres to leave pores in the solidified polymeric matrix.
Specification