Structure-property-processing correlations of longitudinal freeze-cast chitosan scaffolds for biomedical applications

Needed for the custom-design of longitudinally freeze-cast chitosan scaffolds biomedical applications are systematic structure-property-processing correlations. Combining mechanical testing in compression with both scanning electron microscopy and semiautomated confocal a quantitative structural characterization fully hydrated scaffolds, robust correlations were determined. Decreasing applied cooling rate from 10 °C/min to 0.1 °C/min, short long axes pore cross-sections, aspect ratio, area found increase 68.0 ?m 120.5 ?m, 189.2 401.2 2.64 3.52, 8,922 ?m2 35,596 ?m2, respectively. Values scaffolds’ modulus, yield strength, toughness range 1,067 kPa 3,209 kPa, 37.7 75.5 20.3 kJ/m3 35.3 kJ/m3, Because additional features, such as cell wall stiffening ridges, affecting properties, not linear but more complex correlation observed. Contrasting results this study those obtained an earlier dry collagen we able identify features that important peculiar each material system. Highlighted newly determined well processing conditions critical performance other biopolymer made by freeze casting applications.