Variable and High Porosity Nanocellulose Solid Forms for Biomedical Applications

Principal Investigator: Michael Mason (UMaine Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering)

Partners: Mehdi Tajvidi (UMaine, School of Forest Resources) & Ian Dickey, MD (Colorado Limb Consultants

Abstract: Material scientists and engineers are constantly seeking to develop new biomaterials that address existing and emerging challenges in human health. Dehydrated cellulose Nano-fiber (CNF), produced here at UMaine, is one such material, which in solid-form, has a number of potential biomedical applications. Porous CNF solid-forms can be produced with impressive structural and mechanical properties (porosity, strength-to-weight ratios, modulus, machinability, durability, biocompatibility, dissolution rate, etc.). This material may be a candidate to replace some metallic biomaterials which are massive, prone to infection, and costly. For example, porous CNF could be used as a synthetic bone, surgical bone scaffold, or bone grafting implement, designed for dissolution and gradual replacement with native bone cells. This exciting new technology lies at the intersection of at least two of the MTI technology sectors (Biotechnology and Composite Materials Technology), is an identified Signature Area of Excellence at UMaine (Biomedical Science and Engineering), is an advanced Forest Bioproduct and leverages an existing market advantage (abundant low cost CNF generated at UMaine). Our preliminary porous CNF mechanical data support the potential utility of this material for high value, relatively low capital investment, biomedical products. We propose to further investigate the efficacy of porous CNF solid-forms for a number of targeted biomedical applications, generating representative prototype samples suitable for mechanical testing and biocompatibility assessment. The proposed RRF Seed Grant will support this effort, generating the data required to seek-out commercialization opportunities. We believe that this technology could have significant economic impact for Maine, supporting the fledgling biotechnology sector.