Porous polymer foams, synthesized via high internal phase emulsion templating (polyHIPEs), present an outstanding framework for the incorporation of functional nanoparticles such as kaolin and hydrous zirconia. Here, we report two nanoparticle-polyHIPE composites which target applications as a highly-absorbent hemostatic wound-dressing and as a porous sponge/filter for chemical decontamination. Kaolin was incorporated into a porous polymer foam composed of poly(ethylene glycol)/polyacrylate in order to enhance its blood-clotting potential. These hydrophilic foams demonstrate significant potential for bandage applications due to their great capacity for swelling, low cytotoxicity, hemostatic activity and capacity to deliver antimicrobials. Additionally, zirconium(IV) hydroxide nanoparticles have been incorporated into a dicyclopentadiene-based porous polymer foam that has demonstrated potential as a self-decontaminating filter material. HIPE templating has proven to be a highly versatile approach to the design of porous polymer materials and the incorporation of functional natural nanoparticles supports its utilization in an ever increasing range of applications.

Multifunctional nanoparticle-porous polymer foam composites: Applications in chemical decontamination and military medicine

255th National Meeting (2018)

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