Polymers for health

Knowledge of the main polymer families used in the biomedical field.

1) Specificity of polymers for biomedical applications and the main polymer families used

2) Description of application families

3) Discussion of the concept of synthesis and the relationship between structure/properties and specifications

Hourly volumes* :

CM: 15 H

TD: 5 H

Be able to identify polymer selection criteria according to the targeted healthcare application.

Learn about the main polymer families used in the healthcare sector.

Organic chemistry, L3 level

Fundamentals of macromolecular chemistry

A basic understanding of the viscoelastic properties of materials

Final written exam, 2 hours:

• Authorized documents: no
• Non-graphic calculator allowed: yes
• Internet allowed: no

Course: Support(s) available on ENT (Moodle) : Course documents, TD documents, exam annals.

1. Introduction to polymers in healthcare: (1.5 H)

- Fields of application

- A reminder of macromolecular structure-property concepts

- Specificity of polymers in healthcare (sterilization, regulatory aspects)

1. Polymers and healthcare applications: (3.5 H)

- Implants

- Tissue engineering

- Release of active ingredients

1. Synthesis of polymers used in healthcare (5 H)

- Controlled radical polymerization

- Cycle opening polymerization

- Multifunctional polycondensation

1. Polysaccharide biopolymers in healthcare: (5 H)

- The main classes of natural polymers

- Polysaccharides of therapeutic interest

- Therapeutic applications of polysaccharides

Tutorials (5 hours): Individual work, exercises to be prepared before and during the session.

Case studies (polymer/application comparison).

Teaching team:
Benjamin Nottelet
Olivia Giani
Hélène Van Den Berghe