Controlled release of antimicrobial substances from polymer matrices

摘要

A method of incorporation of biostatic agents in polymer matrices that have been subject to some degree of cross-linking. The method employs either the simultaneous polymerisation, Äh94Üusing the method of a suspension or emulsion of the monomer, the initiator, a cross-linking agent and the biostatic compound to be Äh95Üincorporated, or the modification of an inert polymer by the introduction of suitable biostatic groups. The relative concentration of the biostatic agent and the cross-linking agent, in conjunction with the chemical composition of the polymer receptor, provides the capability to control the release/diffusion of the biostatic agent in liquids Äh96Üin contact to the polymer matrix, such as natural serum, water-ethanol mixtures. Ultraviolet-visible absorption spectrometry is used for controlling the rate of release/diffusion of the biostatic agent which is incorporated in the polymer matrixÄh97Ü into the particular liquid phase. Raman spectrometry, Raman Äh98Üimaging and infraredÄh99Ü reflectance techniques are used as methods for the control of the migration of the biostatic agent from the Äh100Übulk of the polymer towards its surface. <IMAGE>