Multivariate Polymer Laboratory on Synthesis of Alginate Hydrogel Beads and Analysis of Dye Loading and Release

• Maksim Dolmat ^[1] ; Claire Thomas ^[1] ; Veronika Kozlovskaya ^[1] ; Eugenia Kharlampieva ^[1]
  1. [1] University of Alabama at Birmingham

     University of Alabama at Birmingham

     Estados Unidos

     
• Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 99, Nº 9, 2022, págs. 3289-3297
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • We have developed a multivariate and multidisciplinary lab experiment on the synthesis of alginate hydrogel beads of various sizes and dye encapsulation for upper-division undergraduate and graduate students. This experiment introduces students to several common concepts in polymer chemistry, materials science, and drug delivery. The experiment series runs over two 3-h laboratories where students first synthesize alginate beads by dropwise addition of an alginate solution into aqueous CaCl2. The alginate bead size is regulated physically via the dropper opening and chemically via cross-linking ion variation, cross-linking time, and surfactant. During the second lab session, students explore the effects of bead size and solution environment on the gel’s loading capacity, encapsulation efficiency, and controlled release using a model dye. Finally, students present their results, methodology, and data analysis to the class. A report and an exam allow the students to demonstrate their knowledge. Students learn critical drug delivery concepts throughout the project, including controlling particle size, loading capacity, and encapsulation efficiency. They also acquire valuable insight into the applications of gel particles and standard techniques used in industrial and academic research. The developed lab experience includes experiments of varying difficulty and can be adapted to first- and second-year undergraduate students by simplifying the suggested laboratory procedures.