The effect of plasma surface modification on the biodegradation rate and biocompatibility of a poly(butylene succinate)-based copolymer

In this contribution, a poly(butylene succinate)-based copolymer containing thioether linkages (P(BS85BTDG15)) has been synthesized and characterized from the molecular, thermal and mechanical point of view. The results have been compared to the parent homopolymer. Films obtained both by PBS and P(BS85BTDG15) have been subjected to surface modification by means of non-thermal plasma surface treatment and the effect on physic/mechanical properties has been considered. Hydrolytic degradation rate under physiological conditions and in vitro biocompatibility of treated and non-treated polymeric films have been also investigated. The introduction of thioether linkages and the plasma etching enhanced the polymer surface wettability, thus resulting in an increased hydrolytic degradation rate. On the other hand, bulk properties were not significantly affected. Biocompatibility assays highlighted the absence of potentially cytotoxic products into the culture medium and proved that the investigated polymeric films can support cell adhesion and proliferation.