A method for the fabrication of monodisperse hydrogel microparticles via inkjet printing has been developed. This technique allows for the synthesis of microgels tailored for individual applications with minimal variation to the formation procedure, facilitating a robust yet facile production process. Allyl functionalized polymers are crosslinked in the presence of the desired cargo with a dithiol species via thiol-ene click to form the hydrogel microparticles in the range of 10-30 μm. This process has been implemented to create hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and amphiphilic structures which can be loaded with a range of therapeutics. Model release data has been obtained and indicates a linear release profile sustained over an extended period. The release rate of the cargo can be tailored by either the choice of crosslinking species or doping of the system with poly(glycidol). Particles formed from crosslinked poly(glycidol)s have shown intriguing physical characteristics and will be investigated for their application in inhalants and vaccines.

Printing of polymer hydrogel microparticles as drug delivery vehicles

251st National Meeting (2016)

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