Development of Nano-Structured Hemocompatible Surfaces

by Schrauth, A.J., Saka, N., Suh, Nam P.

November, 2004 | Link to full document (970K PDF)

Abstract

Hemocompatible surfaces are crucial to the performance of many biomedical devices. One of the requirements for such surfaces is the ability to resist the build-up of proteins from blood. We have been investigating the use of surface topography to minimize fluid-surface interaction with the goal that this phenomenon can then be exploited to decrease protein deposition on biomedical surfaces. This paper presents theoretical backing for the effect of surface structure on fluid wetting. We demonstrate the ability to control fluid-surface interaction by modifying surface structure. In one experiment, the apparent contact angle of a surface has been changed from 100° (flat surface) to 160° (structured surface). We present several alternative methods of creating micro-structure over a large area. We also show progress towards a method to manufacture nanoscale surface strutures over a large area.

Link to full document (970K PDF)