Ricerc@Sapienza

Oil-based/bio-derived blends have been produced with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and Soy Protein Isolate (SPI). In order to be processed, SPI is plasticized with glycerol. In order to overcome different hydrophilicity between natural and oil-based polymers, a compatibilizer has been introduced. Polyethylene-graft-glycidyl methacrylate (PE-g-GMA) has been selected to act on HDPE-SPI interface. Good effect of PE-g-GMA has been displayed, increasing tensile strength, keeping almost the same elastic modulus and elongation at break.

The differences in hydrophilicity are a main drawback for wood polymer composites (WPCs). This work aims at compatibilizing bio-derived poly(lactic acid) (PLA), high density polyethylene (PE) and wood fibers (WFs) with either functional PEs [PE-graft-maleic anhydride (MA) (Polybond 3029) or random copolymer of ethylene and glycidyl methacrylate (PE-g-GMA) (Lotader AX8840)] or trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium bistriflamide ionic liquid (IL). The interactions and possible chemical reactions between PLA and functional PE or IL were studied including their mechanical properties.

In recent years, novel nanofabrication approaches have attracted the growing interest of researchers in the biomedical field. Nanomaterials are highly versatile tools that can interact with cells in general, including bacteria, animal and plant cells. When used as drug carriers, NPs can afford improved circulation and biodistribution, in addition to high drug loading and controlled release rates, as well as protection from degradation that may occur both in vitro and in vivo.