Fecha de publicación: -- Fuente: Journal of applied polymer Lugar: RESEARCH ARTICLE Macroporous 3D cellulose foams were successfully made using a chemical method. FTIR spectroscopy indicates successful PMMA template leaching, while SEM analysis shows a controlled, 2D interconnected porous network. Featuring characteristic J-shaped mechanical behavior, these ultra-lightweight structures exhibit good mechanical properties, which highlight their potential for medical applications after possible reinforcement with osteoconductive materials.

ABSTRACT
Developing sustainable and biocompatible bio-based foams for medical application presents a major challenge, particularly concerning structural integrity and cellular colonization. This study focuses on the development and characterization of macroporous cellulose foams as a promising material, specifically tailored for potential medical applications. The foams are synthesized using a dissolution process of cellulose in a LiCl/DMAc solution, followed by a PMMA templating technique adapted from ceramics, using spherical granules (400–500 μm diameter) to control pore size and interconnection. This method successfully yielded a 3D cellulose structure with controlled and interconnected porosity, which may be compatible with future biological evaluation, including colonization by bone and/or fibrous cells. Comprehensive characterization, including FTIR spectroscopy, SEM/EDX analysis, and compression testing, confirmed the material's successful development and structural features. These results, confirming the material's dimensional and mechanical stability during development, highlight the macroporous cellulose foam as highly reliable. This may confirm their potential as robust biomaterials for medical application.