Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are polymers which demonstrate shape memory behavior characterized by a spontaneous change in shape triggered by an external stimulus. These polymers possess a permanent shape, corresponding to the shape at formation of chemical or physical crosslinks, and a temporary shape, which may correspond to the shape at crystallization of ordered domains and/or vitrification, for example. The SMP can spontaneously return from its temporary shape to its permanent shape when approaching, at, or exceeding the characteristic transition temperature, Ttrans.
The shape memory process can be used to perform a desired function as a component of a medical device or tool. For example, shape memory polymers have been used for drug delivery, to make self-tightening sutures, for auto-expanding stents, and for other biomedical applications. However, most existing applications make use of heat as the stimulus to trigger a shape memory effect, with relatively few examples of other stimuli.
Significant challenges exist in the art with respect to utilizing shape memory polymer for medical devices. A significant challenge is the external stimulus, the type and characteristics of which are consequential to the usefulness or effectiveness of an SMP or a device with an SMP. For example, while heat is a typical stimulus for triggering the shape memory effect (or, shape change), it is unspecific or non-localized and may easily cause damage to neighboring tissues. Light as a stimulus may be problematic as the relevant wavelength may not sufficiently penetrate skin. Chemical exposure as a stimulus carries the risk of toxicity or other chemical-induced negative effects. Other challenges in the art include fine control over the Ttrans to precisely tailor an SMP to a particular medical application, stability under physiological conditions, and minimizing biological toxicity. These, and other, challenges are interdependent. For example, an SMP that has a useful Ttrans may have stability and/or toxicity issues or may practically only be triggered by a stimulus that is harmful or otherwise counterproductive. These and other challenges are addressed by materials, methods, and devices disclosed herein.
Provided herein are materials, methods, devices, and associated aspects, that provide advantages of the shape memory effect of shape memory polymers while obviating disadvantages and addressing challenges such as those discussed above. In various aspects disclosed herein, composite materials disclosed herein provide the shape memory effect advantage of SMPs and further provide for fine tunability of Ttrans, remote non-invasive and biologically-benign triggering using focused ultrasound, ease and high degree of malleability, stability under physiological or in-vivo conditions, and precise control over the degree and location of shape change. These features allow the composite materials disclosed herein to be adapted to a wide range of medical devices, as well as to devices for non-medical applications.
Aspects disclosed herein include a composite material comprising: one or more shape memory polymers; and a first additive provided in the shape memory polymer(s); wherein: the first additive comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of inorganic particles; the composite material is characterized by a composite transition temperature (Tcm,trans); and the composite material or one or more portions thereof undergo a shape change from a temporary shape to a permanent shape when the composite material or said one or more portions thereof are heated to or beyond Tcm,trans.
Aspects disclosed herein include a composite material comprising: one or more shape memory polymers; and a first additive provided in the shape memory polymer(s); wherein: the first additive increases one or more ultrasound-attenuation characteristics of the composite material compared to that of the shape memory polymer(s) alone; the composite material is characterized by a composite transition temperature (Tcm,trans); and the composite material or one or more portions thereof undergo a shape change from a temporary shape to a permanent shape when the composite material or said one or more portions thereof are heated to within 35° C. (optionally within 30° C., optionally within 25° C., optionally within 20° C., optionally within 15° C., optionally within 10° C., optionally within 5° C.) of Tcm,trans or a temperature approximately equal to (e.g., “approximately equal”=within 20%, optionally within 10%, optionally within 5%, optionally within 1%, optionally equal) or greater than Tcm,trans.
Aspects disclosed herein include a composite material comprising: one or more shape memory polymers; a first additive provided in the shape memory polymer(s); wherein: the first additive comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of hollow particles; the composite material is characterized by a composite transition temperature (Tcm,trans); and the composite material or one or more portions thereof undergo a shape change from a temporary shape to a permanent shape when the composite material or said one or more portions thereof are heated to or beyond Tcm,trans.
Aspects disclosed herein include a method of using a composite material, the method comprising: directing one or more focused ultrasound beams at one or more portions of the composite material; thereby, heating the one or more portions to a temperature approximately equal to or greater than a composite transition temperature (Tcm,trans); and thereby, causing the composite material to undergo a shape change at the one or more portions thereof; wherein the composite material comprises: one or more shape memory polymers; and a first additive provided in the shape memory polymer(s); wherein: the first additive (a) comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of inorganic particles, (b) increases an ultrasound-attenuation characteristic of the composite material compared to that of the shape memory polymer(s) alone, and/or (c) comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of hollow particles; the composite material is characterized by the composite transition temperature (Tcm,trans); and the one or more portions of the composite material undergo the shape change from a temporary shape to a permanent shape when the one or more portions are heated to within 35° C. (optionally within 30° C., optionally within 25° C., optionally within 20° C., optionally within 15° C., optionally within 10° C., optionally within 5° C.) of Tcm,trans or a temperature approximately equal to (e.g., “approximately equal”=within 20%, optionally within 10%, optionally within 5%, optionally within 1%, optionally equal) or greater than Tcm,trans.
Aspects disclosed herein include a method of making a composite material, the method comprising: polymerizing a monomer to form a first polymer; crosslinking the first polymer in the presence of a crosslinking precursor and the first additive at a temperature equal to or greater than a crosslinking temperature (Tcm,crosslink) to form the composite material having the crosslinked shape memory polymer and the first additive; wherein the composite material comprises: one or more shape memory polymers; and a first additive provided in the shape memory polymer(s); wherein: the first additive (a) comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of inorganic particles, (b) increases an ultrasound-attenuation characteristic of the composite material compared to that of the shape memory polymer(s) alone, and/or (c) comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of hollow particles; the composite material is characterized by the composite transition temperature (Tcm,trans); and the one or more portions of the composite material undergo the shape change from a temporary shape to a permanent shape when the one or more portions are heated to within 35° C. (optionally within 30° C., optionally within 25° C., optionally within 20° C., optionally within 15° C., optionally within 10° C., optionally within 5° C.) of Tcm,trans or a temperature approximately equal to (e.g., “approximately equal”=within 20%, optionally within 10%, optionally within 5%, optionally within 1%, optionally equal) or greater than Tcm,trans.
Aspects disclosed herein include a method of making a device having a composite material, the method comprising: attaching, providing, or inserting the composite material to or into the device; wherein the composite material comprises: one or more shape memory polymers; and a first additive provided in the shape memory polymer(s); wherein: the first additive (a) comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of inorganic particles, (b) increases an ultrasound-attenuation characteristic of the composite material compared to that of the shape memory polymer(s) alone, and/or (c) comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of hollow particles; the composite material is characterized by the composite transition temperature (Tcm,trans); and the one or more portions of the composite material undergo the shape change from a temporary shape to a permanent shape when the one or more portions are heated to within 35° C. (optionally within 30° C., optionally within 25° C., optionally within 20° C., optionally within 15° C., optionally within 10° C., optionally within 5° C.) of Tcm,trans or a temperature approximately equal to (e.g., “approximately equal”=within 20%, optionally within 10%, optionally within 5%, optionally within 1%, optionally equal) or greater than Tcm,trans.
Aspects disclosed herein include a device comprising a composite material, wherein the composite material comprises: one or more shape memory polymers; and a first additive provided in the shape memory polymer(s); wherein: the first additive (a) comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of inorganic particles, (b) increases an ultrasound-attenuation characteristic of the composite material compared to that of the shape memory polymer(s) alone, and/or (c) comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of hollow particles; the composite material is characterized by the composite transition temperature (Tcm,trans); and the one or more portions of the composite material undergo the shape change from a temporary shape to a permanent shape when the one or more portions are heated to within 35° C. (optionally within 30° C., optionally within 25° C., optionally within 20° C., optionally within 15° C., optionally within 10° C., optionally within 5° C.) of Tcm,trans or a temperature approximately equal to (e.g., “approximately equal”=within 20%, optionally within 10%, optionally within 5%, optionally within 1%, optionally equal) or greater than Tcm,trans.
Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, there may be discussion herein of beliefs or understandings of underlying principles relating to the devices and methods disclosed herein. It is recognized that regardless of the ultimate correctness of any mechanistic explanation or hypothesis, an embodiment of the invention can nonetheless be operative and useful.
In general, the terms and phrases used herein have their art-recognized meaning, which can be found by reference to standard texts, journal references and contexts known to those skilled in the art. The following definitions are provided to clarify their specific use in the context of the invention.
The term “shape memory polymer” (or, “SMP”) refers to a polymer that has the ability to return from a deformed shape (a temporary shape) or state to its original shape (a permanent shape) or state when induced by an external stimulus, such as temperature change. This behavior is also referred to as a shape memory behavior. The permanent shape of a shape memory polymer or of a composite material therewith is set, established, or defined upon the formation of chemical or physical crosslinks therein. For example, the crosslinking can occur at a temperature approaching (e.g., within 20%), equal to, or greater than a Tcrosslink, or a crosslinking temperature. For example, a permanent shape can be imparted upon or forced upon a shape memory polymer or a composite material therewith when or as crosslinking is occurring therein (at a temperature approaching, near, at, or beyond Tcrosslink) by constraining at least a portion of the polymer or material (such as in a mold), applying a force to at least a portion of the polymer or material, and/or applying tension or compression to the polymer or material, or mechanically or otherwise deforming the polymer or material during crosslinking or as crosslinking occurs. A temporary shape of a shape memory polymer or a composite material therewith can be set by heating the polymer or material to its transition temperature, Ttrans, which may correspond to the polymer's or material's glass transition temperature, Tg, and/or its melt temperature, Tm. As the temperature approaches (e.g., within 20%), is equal to, or is greater than Ttrans, the polymer or material can be deformed, optionally mechanically, to establish or set the temporary shape. As the deformation, corresponding to the temporary shape, is applied to the polymer or material, the deformation is preferably maintained, mechanically or otherwise, as the polymer or material is cooled to below its Ttrans, thereby setting or defining the temporary shape of the polymer or material. Crystallization of ordered domains and/or vitrification (where Ttrans=Tm and/or Tg, respectively) serves to hold the polymer in its temporary shape until it is again heated to a temperature approaching, equal to, or greater than Ttrans, in which case, in the absence of the deformation (e.g., mechanical force) which established the temporary shape, the polymer or material will spontaneously return to its permanent shape. This transformation in form is known as the shape memory effect.
As used herein, a “shape” of a material refers to its geometry or physical configuration. In aspects, the term “shape” refers to a material's macroscopic geometry or physical configuration as well as one or more microscopic, nanoscopic, and/or atomic physical characteristics, including but not limited to strain and/or stress. Therefore, as used herein, a “shape change” refers to a change in a material's macroscopic geometry or physical configuration and optionally further includes change in one or more microscopic, nanoscopic, and/or atomic physical characteristics, such as a distribution in stress and/or strain in the material. As merely an illustrative example, if a shape memory polymer or composite material therewith is programmed to contract as part of the shape change from temporary shape to permanent shape but is fixed on both ends during the shape change (e.g., as the material is heated to Ttrans, or Tcm,trans in case of composite material), the shape change may be more subtle or limited to a change in forces within the structure. In various aspects, a shape change is an expansion, a contraction, a twisting, an unraveling, a curling, an unfurling, an opening, a closing, a bending, an unbending, a folding, an unfolding, a straightening, a lengthening, a shortening, a redistribution or change in distribution of stress in the material, a redistribution or change in distribution of strain in the material, or any combination of these. In some aspects, a shape change is not necessarily from a temporary shape to the final/original permanent shape, but instead the shape change is complete or stopped at an intermediate shape (e.g., an intermediate shape between temporary shape and permanent shape before original permanent shape is obtained).
The term “transition temperature” or “Ttrans” refers to a characteristic temperature of the phase or shape change corresponding to a shape memory polymer or a composite material having a shape memory polymer, or any portion(s) thereof, undergoing or exhibiting a shape memory effect, a shape change, or otherwise a transformation from its temporary shape to its permanent shape when heated from a lower temperature thereto. In some aspects, a transition temperature of a material corresponds to a glass transition temperature and/or melt transition temperature of the material. In some aspects, a material may have two transition temperatures, a glass transition and a melt transition, wherein only the melt transition lies above room temperature, enabling formation of a temporary shape that is stable at room temperature. For example, in aspects, assuming endotherms are plotted as negative, the transition temperature for the melt transition corresponds to the minimum of the negative peak in the 2nd cycle heating curve in differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) data. In aspects, for determining a Ttrans, when plotting DSC data with the positive exotherm convention, as provided herein, for example, the heating curve upon melting (endothermic) will have a negative peak and Tm is defined as the minimum. Use of DSC for determining relevant transition temperature(s), useful for aspects disclosed herein, such as Tm, Tc, and/or Tg is described by Gabbott, P. in “A Practical Introduction to Differential Scanning Calorimetry”, Chapter 1, pp. 1-50, in Principles and Applications of Thermal Analysis, 2008 (DOI: 10.1002/9780470697702.ch1), especially section 1.5.2.3 and 1.5.5, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. A composite material, having one or more shape memory polymers, optionally further comprising one or more additives, can be characterized by a transition temperature of the composite material, for which the shorthand used herein is Tcm,trans. A crosslinked shape memory polymer that is free of additives disclosed herein, or an “additive-free crosslinked shape memory polymer”, can be characterized by a transition temperature of the additive free crosslinked shape memory polymer, or a polymer-only transition temperature, or simply Tpol,trans.
The terms “crosslinking temperature” and “Tcrosslink” refer to a characteristic onset or a lower limit temperature of chemical and/or physical crosslinking in a shape memory polymer or a composite material having a shape memory polymer, or any portion(s) thereof, corresponding to the setting, programming, or establishing of its permanent shape when heated from a lower temperature thereto. As used herein, the term “Tcrosslink” refers to the lower limit or onset temperature of chemical crosslinking as just defined, whereas “Tperm” (or, permanent shape programming temperature) refers to the temperature that is actually used or reached for crosslinking and programming/setting the permanent shape. Thus, Tperm is equal to or greater than Tcrosslink. Tperm is not necessarily an intrinsic property of the material, but rather depends on the crosslinker (or, crosslinking moiety, or crosslinking precursor) used, and is chosen depending on practical considerations such as, but not limited to, a reasonable reaction time, temperature limits of the mold used, and avoiding decomposition of the SMP. For example, in aspects, a crosslinking temperature corresponds to a temperature at which a thermal initiator decomposes, causing the crosslinking reaction to occur. In some aspects, Tcrosslink is not necessarily directly measured, but a valid lower limit for Tperm, and thus an estimate of Tcrosslink, can be estimated. For example, in aspects, an upper limit of Tperm or range thereof could be defined as the temperature at which the SMP and/or crosslinking moieties thereof decompose. The crosslinking reaction will occur faster the higher the temperature above the lower limit Tcrosslink. As such, as used herein, Tperm corresponds to the lower limit temperature, or onset temperature, of the crosslinking reaction in a given polymer or material. Once the crosslinking step has been completed, (re)heating to Tcrosslink, Tperm, or higher no longer elicits crosslinking or shape programming effect, since the crosslinker has been completely consumed. Generally, heating to Tcrosslink or Tperm does not trigger any shape change in a crosslinked SMP. The minimum time required at a particular given temperature, being approximately equal to or greater than Tcrosslink, to complete crosslinking can be estimated by a kinetic study where samples of the material are heated to that particular temperature Tperm for varying amounts of time. DSC can be used for such a study (see
The term “10-hour half-life temperature” or “10-hour HLT” refers to a temperature at which 50% of the substance, compound, or material, such as an organic peroxide crosslinking precursor, will decompose in 10 hours. This parameter corresponds to an optional estimate of lower limit for estimating crosslinking temperature, Tcrosslink, because a typical crosslinking reaction may be less efficient in a polymer in practice, since the crosslinker is spread out in the polymer matrix in solid state, compared to the 10-hour HLT measurement for a pure crosslinking precursor (e.g., organic peroxide) dissolved in an organic solvent. Relevant 10-hour HLT values for various compounds and descriptions of measurements thereof are available in “Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology”, chapter “PEROXIDES AND PEROXIDE COMPOUNDS, ORGANIC PEROXIDES” (DOI: 10.1002/0471238961.1518070119011403.a01).
As used herein, the term “ultrasound” is intended to be consistent with the term as used in the field of physics. Generally, ultrasound is sound, sound frequencies, sound waves, or acoustic energy characterized by frequencies greater than approximately 20 kHz. In some aspects, ultrasound is characterized by sound wave frequencies of at least approximately 20 kHz and optionally less than or equal to 5 GHz, optionally less than or equal to 1 GHz, optionally less than or equal to 500 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 400 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 300 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 250 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 200 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 150 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 100 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 50 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 30 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 20 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 19 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 18 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 16 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 15 MHz optionally less than or equal to 14 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 10 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 9 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 5 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 4 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 3 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 1 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 900 kHz, optionally less than or equal to 800 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 700 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 600 MHz, optionally less than or equal to 500 MHz. In certain aspects or embodiments herein, the ultrasound frequency range is that which is relevant and useful to a given or specified application or field of applications (e.g., medical devices). Generally, the terms “ultrasound”, “ultrasound frequencies”, “ultrasound waves”, and “ultrasound energy” may be used interchangeably such as when referring to absorption of ultrasound energy by a material or to a beam of ultrasound energy/waves.
The term “focused ultrasound” refers to non-ionizing ultrasound, ultrasound frequencies/waves, or ultrasound energy that is directional and focused or confined. Focused ultrasound may focused or confined to a beam of ultrasound waves or ultrasound energy. A focused ultrasound beam may be characterized by a focal volume, focal area, or focal point at which the ultrasound intensity, energy density, power, power density, and/or a flux of the ultrasound beam is maximum. A focused ultrasound beam may be formed with the aid of a transducer. Focused ultrasound may be used for therapeutic techniques such as high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU).
The term “ultrasound-attenuation characteristic” refers to an empirically-derived or a computationally determined characteristic of a material that quantitatively describes or defines the ability of the material to attenuate ultrasound energy or ultrasound frequencies. An “ultrasound-absorption characteristic” is an ultrasound-attenuation characteristic. The term “ultrasound-absorption characteristic” refers to an empirically-derived or a computationally determined characteristic of a material that quantitatively describes or defines the ability of the material to absorb ultrasound energy or ultrasound frequencies. Ultrasound-attenuation characteristics include, but are not limited to, an ultrasound attenuation coefficient, an ultrasound absorptivity (e.g., molar absorptivity), an ultrasound absorption coefficient (e.g., mass absorption coefficient), and an ultrasound absorption cross-section. In some aspects, an ultrasound-attenuation characteristic is preferably an ultrasound attenuation coefficient.
The term “size characteristic” refers to a property, or set of properties, of a particle that directly or indirectly relates to a size attribute. According to some aspects, a size characteristic corresponds to an empirically-derived size characteristic of a particle or particles being detected, such as a size characteristic based on, determined by, or corresponding to data from any technique or instrument that may be used to determine a particle size, such as but not limiting to optical microscope, electron microscope (e.g., SEM and TEM), optical attenuation (absorbance, scattering, and/or reflectance), and/or a light scattering technique (e.g., DLS). For example, a size characteristic can correspond to a spherical particle exhibiting similar or substantially same properties, such as aerodynamic, hydrodynamic, optical, and/or electrical properties, as the particle(s) being detected. According to some aspects, a size characteristic corresponds to a physical dimension, such as a cross-sectional size (e.g., length, width, thickness, or diameter).
The terms “substantially” and “approximately” interchangeably refer to a property, condition, or value that is within 20%, 10%, within 5%, within 1%, optionally within 0.1%, or is equal to a reference property, condition, or value, respectively. The term “substantially equal”, “substantially equivalent”, or “substantially unchanged”, when used in conjunction with a reference value (e.g., describing a property or condition), refers to a value that is within 20%, within 10%, optionally within 5%, optionally within 1%, optionally within 0.1%, or optionally is equal to the provided reference value. For example, a temperature is substantially equal to 100° C. (or, “is substantially 100° C.” or “is approximately 100° C.”) if the value of the temperature is within 20%, optionally within 10%, optionally within 5%, optionally within 1%, within 0.1%, or optionally equal to 100° C. The term “substantially greater”, when used in conjunction with a reference value, refers to a value that is at least 1%, optionally at least 5%, optionally at least 10%, or optionally at least 20% greater than the provided reference value. The term “substantially less”, when used in conjunction with a reference value refers to a value that is at least 1%, optionally at least 5%, optionally at least 10%, or optionally at least 20% less than the provided reference value. As used herein, the terms “substantially” and “approximately” are equivalent and interchangeable. As used herein, the term “about” means a range of values including the specified value, which a person of ordinary skill in the art would consider reasonably similar to the specified value. In embodiments, “about” means within a standard deviation using measurements generally acceptable in the art. In embodiments, “about” means a range extending to ±10% of the specified value. In embodiments, “about” means the specified value.
The term “moiety” refers to a group, such as a functional group, of a chemical compound or molecule. A moiety is a collection of atoms that are part of the chemical compound or molecule. Crosslinking moieties disclosed herein include moieties characterized as monovalent, divalent, trivalent, etc. valence states, or any combination thereof. Generally, but not necessarily, a moiety comprises more than one functional group.
The term “NTP” refers to the set of conditions defined as normal temperature and pressure, which are a temperature of 20° C. (293.15 K, 68° F.) and an absolute pressure of 1 atm (14.696 psi, 101.325 kPa).
The term “wt. %” refers to a weight percent, or a mass fraction represented as a percentage by mass. As used herein, a concentration of the first additive in the one or more shape memory polymers may be characterized using a wt. % of the first additive in the one or more shape memory polymers, wherein wt. %=[(weight of first additive)/(weight of the one or more polymers only, excluding first additive)].
In an embodiment, a composition or compound of the invention, such as an alloy or precursor to an alloy, is isolated or substantially purified. In an embodiment, an isolated or purified compound is at least partially isolated or substantially purified as would be understood in the art. In an embodiment, a substantially purified composition, compound or formulation of the invention has a chemical purity of 95%, optionally for some applications 99%, optionally for some applications 99.9%, optionally for some applications 99.99%, and optionally for some applications 99.999% pure.
In the following description, numerous specific details of the devices, device components and methods of the present invention are set forth in order to provide a thorough explanation of the precise nature of the invention. It will be apparent, however, to those of skill in the art that the invention can be practiced without these specific details.
Various aspects herein are in the fields of stimulus responsive materials and shape memory polymers and their use in medical devices. In some aspects, the stimulus is ultrasound and various aspects are in the field of ultrasound responsive shape memory polymers. Composite materials, in various aspects, comprise one or more shape memory polymers of which a shape change can be triggered through the application of ultrasound. In aspects herein, composite materials further comprise one or more additives that improve or enhance the ability of the composite material or SMP thereof to absorb ultrasound energy, thereby triggering a shape change without damaging nearby tissue. In various aspects, composite materials are designed with control of Ttrans to fall below, at, or above body temperature (T=37° C.) to enable their use in medical applications.
The shape memory process can be used to perform a desired function as a component of a medical device or tool. For example, shape memory polymers have been used for drug delivery,2 to make self-tightening sutures,3 for auto-expanding stents,4 and for other biomedical applications.1 However, most existing applications make use of heat as the stimulus to trigger a shape memory effect, with relatively few examples of other stimuli.
The external stimuli used to actuate shape memory polymers include heat, light, ultrasound, magnetic fields, resistive heating, pH change, and chemical exposure.1 Of these, only ultrasound, magnetic fields, and pH changes are capable of noninvasively activating a SMP that is part of a medical implant. Heating is unspecific and will cause damage to neighboring tissues. Light cannot penetrate significantly beyond the skin. Chemical exposure introduces significant toxicity concerns. In contrast, focused ultrasound can be used deep within the body to generate localized heating and is in widely used for the ablation of tumors.5 This use has been applied clinically in humans6 and the associated equipment can be adapted to actuate a shape memory polymer.
Achieving synthetic control over Ttrans is desirable to precisely tailor an SMP to a particular medical application. For most medical applications, a Ttrans that is tunable over a range of temperatures spanning the physiological temperature is desirable. Poly(cis-cyclooctene) (PCOE) is a promising polymer for achieving control over Ttrans in that it has been demonstrated to show tunable Ttrans (in this case Tm) in the desired range as a function of cis/trans ratio of alkene moieties in the polymer backbone.10 In addition, the Tm has been tuned through varying the loading of the crosslinker dicumyl peroxide, where higher loadings were found to decrease Tm.11 However, in these examples, ultrasound actuation was not realized. Thus, development of a PCOE based SMP that can be activated via ultrasound would be highly desirable to realize a system where Tm is tunable.
Finally, to increase the safety margin within the human body, the SMP should demonstrate significantly stronger absorption of ultrasound than surrounding bone and tissue.12 Composite materials such as Teflon coated NaCl crystals embedded in a polymer matrix have been shown to generate very significant heating effects upon ultrasound stimulation.13 The heating effect was attributed to friction at the interface between the Teflon coating and the polymer. However, this effect has not been used to trigger shape memory, and high pressure was required in addition to ultrasound in this setup, rendering it unsuitable for medical use. As such, development of a composite SMP material that is suitable for medical use represents a promising strategy to increase the safety margin of an ultrasound responsive SMP.
In various aspects, composite materials comprise a semicrystalline shape memory polymer which comprises a chemically and/or physically crosslinked network and contains one or more additives. For example, an additive may be intentionally introduced pockets of gas in the SMP and/or intentionally introduced materials different from the SMP itself. Composite materials of aspects disclosed herein, also referred to herein as “polymer/additive composites” or simply “composites”, are characterized by enhanced ultrasound induced heating as compared with the equivalent crosslinked shape memory polymer free of additives (additive-free crosslinked shape memory polymer). Composite materials of aspects disclosed herein demonstrate a shape memory effect upon heating to Tcm,trans which may also be triggered through the application of an external stimulus. Both the permanent and temporary shapes can be fully programmed through synthesis and processing and are not limited to any particular geometry.
In various aspects, the permanent shape is set at the time or occurrence of crosslink formation, while the temporary shape is defined through later processing of the already crosslinked polymer. An irreversible shape memory effect, or an irreversible shape change, is a shape change from the temporary shape to the permanent shape upon application of the external stimulus but where the temporary shape is not recovered upon removal or turning off of the external stimulus (e.g., focused ultrasound). A reversible shape memory effect, or a reversible shape change, is a shape change between temporary shape and permanent shapes as the external stimulus is turned on and off, such that the temporary shape may be recovered when the external stimulus is removed or turned off. In some embodiments, the external stimulus is ultrasound, light, chemical exposure, magnetic or electric field exposure, or pH change.
In various aspects, the semicrystalline polymer is poly(cyclooctene) prepared via ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) with a ruthenium catalyst and crosslinked chemically in a single step by a difunctional cyclooctene crosslinker (
In various aspects, Vestenamer 8012 (Evonik) is crosslinked with dicumyl peroxide (DCP) or dibenzoyl peroxide (DBzP). The polymer is dissolved in toluene with the crosslinker and may be mixed with an additive to enhance ultrasound induced heating. After removing the solvent and processing the dried polymer into the desired shape, crosslinking is achieved by exposure to elevated temperature under vacuum (
In various aspects, a thermal radical initiator may be included as an additive within a crosslinked polymer prepared according to aspects herein to be activated at a later time directly through exposure to elevated temperature or indirectly through exposure to an external stimulus. Elevated temperature or the external stimulus is used to form an interpenetrating second crosslinked network while the polymer is held mechanically in a temporary shape. The interpenetrating network may be used to enable a reversible shape memory effect.
In various aspects, monomer may be introduced via swelling into the polymer containing thermal initiator prepared according to aspects herein, and the use of elevated temperature or an external stimulus will induce radical polymerization.
In various aspects, the polymer is prepared according to aspects herein and the thermal radical initiator is DCP and the external stimulus is focused ultrasound stimulation.
Various aspects are contemplated herein, several of which are set forth in the paragraphs below. It is explicitly contemplated that any aspect or portion thereof can be combined to form an aspect. In addition, it is explicitly contemplated that: any reference to aspect 1 includes reference to aspects 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, 1g, and/or 1h, etc., and any combination thereof; any reference to aspect 2 includes reference to aspects 2a, 2b, and 2c, and so on (any reference to an aspect includes reference to that aspect's lettered versions). Moreover, the terms “any preceding aspect” and “any one of the preceding aspects” means any aspect that appears prior to the aspect that contains such phrase (for example, the sentence “Aspect 32: The method or system of any preceding aspect . . . ” means that any aspect prior to aspect 32 is referenced, including letter versions, including aspects 1a through 31). For example, it is contemplated that, optionally, any material, method, or device of any the below aspects may be useful with or combined with any other aspect provided below. Further, for example, it is contemplated that any embodiment or aspect described above may, optionally, be combined with any of the below listed aspects.
Aspect 1a: A composite material comprising:
Aspect 1b: A composite material comprising:
Aspect 1c: A composite material comprising:
Aspect 1d: A method of using a composite material, the method comprising:
Aspect 1e: A method of making a composite material, the method comprising:
Aspect 1f: A method of making a device having a composite material, the method comprising:
Aspect 1g: A device comprising: a composite material, wherein the composite material comprises:
Aspect 1 h: A composite material comprising:
Aspect 2a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is provided at (or at least at) the one or more portions of the shape memory polymer(s). Aspect 2b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is provided at the one or more portions of the shape memory polymer(s); and wherein at least a portion of the one or more shape memory polymers is free of the first additive. Aspect 2c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is provided at (or at least at) one or more portions of the composite material. Aspect 2d: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is provided at one or more portions of the composite material; and wherein at least another portion of the one or more shape memory polymers is free of the first additive.
Aspect 3: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is provided throughout the internal volume of the shape memory polymer(s).
Aspect 4: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect being capable of absorbing ultrasound throughout or at the one or more portions of the composite material; wherein a temperature of the composite material increases where its absorbs the ultrasound; and wherein the composite material undergoes the shape change when heated to within 35° C. of Tcm,trans or a temperature approximately equal to or greater than Tcm,trans as a result of absorbing of the ultrasound.
Aspect 5: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more portions of the composite material having the first additive are heated when said one or more portions of the composite material are exposed to ultrasound.
Aspect 6: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive absorbs the ultrasound frequencies; and wherein the first additive is heated by its absorption of ultrasound and/or wherein heat is created by friction between the first additive and the one or more shape memory polymers when the first additive absorbs the ultrasound.
Aspect 7: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the composite material undergoes the shape change only at the one or more portions thereof having the first additive exposed to the ultrasound.
Aspect 8a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive increases one or more ultrasound-attenuation characteristic (optionally, an ultrasound absorption coefficient) of the composite material and/or of the one or more portions thereof (having the first additive) by at least 50% (optionally at least 75%, optionally at least 90%, optionally at least 100%, optionally at least 120%, optionally at least 140%, optionally at least 160%, optionally at least 180%, optionally at least 200%, optionally at least 220%, optionally at least 240%, optionally at least 260%, optionally at least 280%, optionally at least 300%, optionally at least 320%, optionally at least 340%) compared to that of the same one or more shape memory polymers free of said first additive (additive-free crosslinked shape memory polymer). Aspect 8b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive increases an ultrasound absorption coefficient of the composite material and/or of the one or more portions thereof (having the first additive) by at least 50% (optionally at least 75%, optionally at least 90%, optionally at least 100%, optionally at least 120%, optionally at least 140%, optionally at least 160%, optionally at least 180%, optionally at least 200%, optionally at least 220%, optionally at least 240%, optionally at least 260%, optionally at least 280%, optionally at least 300%, optionally at least 320%, optionally at least 340%) compared to that of the same one or more shape memory polymers free of said first additive (additive-free crosslinked shape memory polymer). Aspect 8c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive increases one or more ultrasound-attenuation characteristic (optionally, an ultrasound absorption coefficient) of the composite material and/or the one or more portions thereof (having the first additive) by at least 50% (optionally at least 75%, optionally at least 90%, optionally at least 100%, optionally at least 120%, optionally at least 140%, optionally at least 160%, optionally at least 180%, optionally at least 200%, optionally at least 220%, optionally at least 240%, optionally at least 260%, optionally at least 280%, optionally at least 300%, optionally at least 320%, optionally at least 340%) compared to that of same one or more shape memory polymers free of said first additive (additive-free crosslinked shape memory polymer) at ultrasound frequencies selected from the range of 400 kHz to 600 kHz (optionally at 500 kHz). Aspect 8d: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive increases an ultrasound absorption coefficient of the composite material and/or the one or more portions thereof (having the first additive) by at least 50% (optionally at least 75%, optionally at least 90%, optionally at least 100%, optionally at least 120%, optionally at least 140%, optionally at least 160%, optionally at least 180%, optionally at least 200%, optionally at least 220%, optionally at least 240%, optionally at least 260%, optionally at least 280%, optionally at least 300%, optionally at least 320%, optionally at least 340%) compared to that of the same one or more shape memory polymers free of said first additive (additive-free crosslinked shape memory polymer) at ultrasound frequencies selected from the range of 400 kHz to 600 kHz (optionally at 500 kHz).
Aspect 9a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more ultrasound-absorption characteristic of the composite material or of the one or more portions of the composite material having the first additive is an ultrasound attenuation coefficient and/or an ultrasound absorption characteristic. Aspect 9b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more ultrasound-absorption characteristics of the composite material or of the one or more portions of the composite material having the first additive is an ultrasound attenuation coefficient.
Aspect 10a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the composite material and/or at least the one or more portions thereof (having the first additive) are characterized by an ultrasound attenuation coefficient selected from the range of 0.05 dB/mm to 10 dB/mm. Aspect 10b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the composite material and/or the one or more portions thereof (having the first additive) is characterized by an ultrasound attenuation coefficient of at least 0.16 dB/mm (optionally at least 0.17 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.18 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.19 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.20 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.21 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.22 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.23 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.24 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.25 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.26 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.27 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.28 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.29 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.30 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.31 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.32 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.33 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.34 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.35 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.37 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.40 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.42 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.45 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.47 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.50 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.51 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.52 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.53 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.54 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.55 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.56 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.57 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.58 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.59 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.60 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.9 dB/mm, optionally at least 1.0 dB/mm, optionally at least 1.2 dB/mm, optionally at least 1.5 dB/mm, optionally at least 1.75 dB/mm, optionally at least 2.0 dB/mm, optionally at least 2.25 dB/mm, optionally at least 2.50 dB/mm, optionally at least 2.75 dB/mm, optionally at least 3.0 dB/mm, optionally at least 3.25 dB/mm, optionally at least 3.5 dB/mm, optionally at least 3.75 dB/mm) at ultrasound frequencies selected from the range of 400 kHz to 600 kHz (optionally at 500 kHz). Aspect 10c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the composite material and/or the one or more portions thereof (having the first additive) is characterized by an ultrasound attenuation coefficient of selected from the range of 0.15 dB/mm (optionally 0.5 dB/mm) to 10 dB/mm (optionally 5 dB/mm), wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated. Aspect 10d: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the composite material and/or the one or more portions thereof (having the first additive) is characterized by an ultrasound attenuation coefficient of selected from the range of 0.05 dB/mm (optionally 0.08 dB/mm) to 10 dB/mm, and wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated.
Aspect 11a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein Tcm,trans is selected from the range of 25° C. to 100° C. Aspect 11a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein Tcm,trans is selected from the range of 25° C. (optionally 26° C., optionally 27° C., optionally 28° C., optionally 29° C., optionally 30° C., optionally 31° C., optionally 32° C., optionally 33° C., optionally 34° C., optionally 35° C., optionally 36° C., optionally 37° C., optionally 38° C., optionally 39° C., optionally 40° C.) to 150° C. (optionally 40° C., optionally 45° C., optionally 50° C., optionally 55° C., optionally 60° C., optionally 65° C., optionally 70° C., optionally 75° C., optionally 80° C., optionally 85° C., optionally 90° C., optionally 95° C., optionally 100° C., optionally 110° C., optionally 120° C., optionally 130° C., optionally 140° C.), wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated.
Aspect 12: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein Tcm,trans is approximately the melt transition temperature (Tm) of the composite material.
Aspect 13: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein shape change is an expansion, a contraction, a twisting, an unraveling, a curling, an unfurling, an opening, a closing, a bending, an unbending, a folding, an unfolding, a straightening, a lengthening, a shortening, a redistribution or change in distribution of stress in the material, a redistribution or change in distribution of strain in the material, or any combination of these.
Aspect 14a The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the shape change occurs as a result of exposure of the composite material or the one or more portions thereof to ultrasound characterized by frequencies selected from the range of approximately 300 kHz (optionally within 20% thereof) to approximately 3 MHz (optionally within 20% thereof) and an energy intensity selected from the range of approximately 1 W/cm2 (optionally within 20% thereof) to approximately 3 W/cm2 (optionally within 20% thereof).
Aspect 14b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the shape change occurs and/or is complete within 300 seconds (optionally 260 seconds, optionally 240 seconds, optionally 200 seconds, optionally 180 seconds, optionally 150 seconds, optionally 120 seconds, optionally 100 seconds, optionally 60 seconds, optionally 45 seconds, optionally 30 seconds, optionally 15 seconds) of exposure of the composite material or the one or more portions thereof to ultrasound characterized by frequencies selected from the range of approximately 300 kHz to approximately 3 MHz and an energy intensity selected from the range of approximately 1 W/cm2 to approximately 3 W/cm2. Aspect 14c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the shape change occurs and/or is complete within 300 seconds (optionally 260 seconds, optionally 240 seconds, optionally 200 seconds, optionally 180 seconds, optionally 150 seconds, optionally 120 seconds, optionally 100 seconds, optionally 60 seconds, optionally 45 seconds, optionally 30 seconds, optionally 15 seconds) of exposure of the composite material or the one or more portions thereof to ultrasound.
Aspect 15a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more portions having the first additive exhibit heating at a rate selected from the range of 0.1° C./s to 5° C./s, wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated, with exposure to ultrasound characterized by frequencies selected from the range of approximately 300 kHz to approximately 3 MHz and an energy intensity selected from the range of approximately 1 W/cm2 to approximately 3 W/cm2. Aspect 15b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more portions having the first additive exhibit an average heating rate selected from the range of 0.1° C./s to 5° C./s (where average heating rate corresponds to ΔT/timeexposure, where ΔT is the change in temperature from beginning of test to maximum temperature reached and timeexposure is the corresponding time of ultrasound exposure) with exposure to ultrasound characterized by frequencies selected from the range of approximately 300 kHz to approximately 3 MHz and an energy intensity selected from the range of approximately 1 W/cm2 to approximately 3 W/cm2. Aspect 15c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more portions having the first additive exhibit an average heating rate selected from the range of 0.1° C./s (optionally 0.15° C./s, optionally 0.2 C/s, optionally 0.25 C/s, optionally 0.3 C/s) to 5° C./s (optionally 0.35 C/s, optionally 0.36 C/s, optionally 0.37 C/s, optionally 0.39 C/s, optionally 0.40 C/s, optionally 0.42 C/s, optionally 0.45 C/s, optionally 0.47 C/s, optionally 0.49° C./s) (where average heating rate corresponds to ΔT/timeexposure, where ΔT is the change in temperature from beginning of test to maximum temperature reached and timeexposure is the corresponding time of ultrasound exposure) with exposure to ultrasound characterized by frequencies selected from the range of approximately 300 kHz to approximately 3 MHz and an energy intensity selected from the range of approximately 1 W/cm2 to approximately 3 W/cm2. Aspect 15d: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more portions having the first additive exhibit an average heating rate selected from the range of 0.1° C./s (optionally 0.15° C./s, optionally 0.2 C/s, optionally 0.25 C/s, optionally 0.3 C/s) to 5° C./s (optionally 0.35 C/s, optionally 0.36 C/s, optionally 0.37 C/s, optionally 0.39 C/s, optionally 0.40 C/s, optionally 0.42 C/s, optionally 0.45 C/s, optionally 0.47 C/s, optionally 0.49° C./s) (where average heating rate corresponds to ΔT/timeexposure, where ΔT is the change in temperature from beginning of test to maximum temperature reached and timeexposure is the corresponding time of ultrasound exposure) with exposure to ultrasound.
Aspect 16a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the composite material is characterized by a density selected from the range of 0.01 to 22.5 g/cm3, and wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated. Aspect 16a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the composite material is characterized by a Young's modulus selected from the range of 1.0 MPa to 1000 MPa at NTP, and wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated, such as optionally 10 MPa to 100 MPa at NTP.
Aspect 17a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of organic particles. Aspect 17b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of inorganic particles. Aspect 17c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of organic particles and a plurality of inorganic particles.
Aspect 18a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive in the composite material is characterized by an ultrasound attenuation coefficient selected from the range of 0.05 dB/mm to 10 dB/mm. Aspect 18b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is an ultrasound-absorbing material characterized by an ultrasound attenuation coefficient of at least 0.16 dB/mm (optionally at least 0.17 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.18 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.19 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.20 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.21 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.22 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.23 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.24 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.25 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.26 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.27 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.28 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.29 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.30 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.31 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.32 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.33 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.34 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.35 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.37 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.40 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.42 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.45 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.47 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.50 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.51 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.52 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.53 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.54 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.55 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.56 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.57 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.58 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.59 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.60 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.65 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.70 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.75 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.80 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.85 dB/mm, optionally at least 0.9 dB/mm, optionally at least 1.0 dB/mm, optionally at least 1.2 dB/mm, optionally at least 1.5 dB/mm, optionally at least 1.75 dB/mm, optionally at least 2.0 dB/mm, optionally at least 2.25 dB/mm, optionally at least 2.50 dB/mm, optionally at least 2.75 dB/mm, optionally at least 3.0 dB/mm, optionally at least 3.25 dB/mm, optionally at least 3.5 dB/mm, optionally at least 3.75 dB/mm) at ultrasound frequencies selected from the range of 400 kHz to 600 kHz (optionally at 500 kHz). Aspect 18c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is an ultrasound-absorbing material characterized by an ultrasound attenuation coefficient of selected from the range of 0.15 dB/mm (optionally 0.5 dB/mm) to 10 dB/mm (optionally 5 dB/mm), wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated.
Aspect 19: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow particles (e.g., microspheres).
Aspect 20: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of non-hollow particles (e.g., microspheres).
Aspect 21: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow glass beads (e.g., microspheres; e.g., glass bubbles), non-hollow glass beads (e.g., microspheres), or any combination thereof.
Aspect 22: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of salt particles, a plurality of metal oxide particles, a plurality of metal particles, a plurality of organic particles, or any combination thereof.
Aspect 23a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of metal chloride particles, iron oxide particles, silica particles, silica gel particles, glass beads (e.g., glass particles, glass bubbles, or glass microspheres), metal particles (e.g., gold, platinum, iridium, silver, tungsten, or another metal having similar high density), or any combination thereof. Aspect 23b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of metal chloride particles, iron oxide particles, silica particles, silica gel particles, glass beads (e.g., glass particles, glass bubbles, or glass microspheres), metal particles (e.g., gold, platinum, iridium, silver, tungsten, or another metal having similar high density, or alloys thereof, or alloys therewith; e.g., high density metal alloys), poly(tetrafluoroethylene)(PTFE) particles, or any combination thereof.
Aspect 24a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow glass microspheres or particles and/or non-hollow glass microspheres or particles characterized by a median diameter selected from the range of approximately 15 μm (optionally 16 μm, optionally 17 μm, optionally 18 μm, optionally 19 μm, optionally 20 μm, optionally 21 μm, optionally 22 μm, optionally 23 μm, optionally 24 μm, optionally 25 μm, optionally 30 μm, optionally 35 μm) to approximately 1000 μm (optionally 36 μm, optionally 40 μm, optionally 45 μm, optionally 50 μm, optionally 55 μm, optionally 60 μm, optionally 65 μm, optionally 70 μm, optionally 75 μm, optionally 80 μm, optionally 85 μm, optionally 90 μm, optionally 95 μm, optionally 100 μm, optionally 200 μm, optionally 300 μm, optionally 400 μm, optionally 500 μm, optionally 600 μm, optionally 700 μm, optionally 800 μm, optionally 900 μm). Aspect 24b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow glass microspheres or particles and/or non-hollow glass microspheres or particles characterized by an average diameter selected from the range of approximately 15 μm (optionally 16 μm, optionally 17 μm, optionally 18 μm, optionally 19 μm, optionally 20 μm, optionally 21 μm, optionally 22 μm, optionally 23 μm, optionally 24 μm, optionally 25 μm, optionally 30 μm, optionally 35 μm) to approximately 1000 μm (optionally 36 μm, optionally 40 μm, optionally 45 μm, optionally 50 μm, optionally 55 μm, optionally 60 μm, optionally 65 μm, optionally 70 μm, optionally 75 μm, optionally 80 μm, optionally 85 μm, optionally 90 μm, optionally 95 μm, optionally 100 μm, optionally 200 μm, optionally 300 μm, optionally 400 μm, optionally 500 μm, optionally 600 μm, optionally 700 μm, optionally 800 μm, optionally 900 μm), wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated. Aspect 24c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow particles and/or non-hollow particles characterized by a median diameter selected from the range of approximately 15 μm (optionally 16 μm, optionally 17 μm, optionally 18 μm, optionally 19 μm, optionally 20 μm, optionally 21 μm, optionally 22 μm, optionally 23 μm, optionally 24 μm, optionally 25 μm, optionally 30 μm, optionally 35 μm) to approximately 1000 μm (optionally 36 μm, optionally 40 μm, optionally 45 μm, optionally 50 μm, optionally 55 μm, optionally 60 μm, optionally 65 μm, optionally 70 μm, optionally 75 μm, optionally 80 μm, optionally 85 μm, optionally 90 μm, optionally 95 μm, optionally 100 μm, optionally 200 μm, optionally 300 μm, optionally 400 μm, optionally 500 μm, optionally 600 μm, optionally 700 μm, optionally 800 μm, optionally 900 μm), wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated.
Aspect 25: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow microspheres characterized by a median internal cavity diameter selected from the range of 1 μm (optionally 2 μm, optionally 3 μm, optionally 4 μm, optionally 5 μm, optionally 6 μm, optionally 7 μm, optionally 8 μm, optionally 9 μm, optionally 10 μm, optionally 11 μm, optionally 12 μm, optionally 13 μm, optionally 14 μm, optionally 15 μm, optionally 20 μm) to 990 μm (optionally 6 μm, optionally 7 μm, optionally 8 μm, optionally 9 μm, optionally 10 μm, optionally 11 μm, optionally 12 μm, optionally 13 μm, optionally 14 μm, optionally 15 μm, optionally 20 μm, optionally 25 μm, optionally 30 μm, optionally 50 μm, optionally 100 μm, optionally 150 μm, optionally 200 μm) and/or an average wall thickness selected from the range of 0.2 μm (optionally 0.3 μm, optionally 0.4 μm, optionally 0.5 μm, optionally 0.6 μm, optionally 0.7 μm, optionally 0.8 μm, optionally 0.9 μm, optionally 1 μm) to 5 μm (optionally 1.2 μm, optionally 1.3 μm, optionally 1.4 μm, optionally 1.5 μm, optionally 2 μm, optionally 3 μm, optionally 4 μm, optionally 4.5 μm), wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated.
Aspect 26a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein a concentration of the first additive in the one or more shape memory polymers is selected from the range of 0.4 wt. % (optionally 0.5 wt. %, optionally 0.6 wt. %, optionally 0.7 wt. %, optionally 0.8 wt. %, optionally 0.9 wt. %, optionally 1.0 wt. %, optionally 1.1 wt. %, optionally 1.2 wt. %, optionally 1.5 wt. %, optionally 1.7 wt. %, optionally 2.0 wt. %, optionally 2.2 wt. %, optionally 2.5 wt. %, optionally 2.7 wt. %, optionally 3.0 wt. %, optionally 3.2 wt. %, optionally 3.5 wt. %, optionally 3.7 wt. %, optionally 4.0 wt. %, optionally 4.2 wt. %, optionally 4.5 wt. %, optionally 4.7 wt. %, optionally 5.0 wt. %) to 50 wt. % (optionally 5 wt. %, optionally 6 wt. %, optionally 7 wt. %, optionally 8 wt. %, optionally 9 wt. %, optionally 10 wt. %, optionally 11 wt. %, optionally 12 wt. %, optionally 13 wt. %, optionally 14 wt. %, optionally 15 wt. %, optionally 20 wt. %, optionally 25 wt. %, optionally 30 wt. %, optionally 35 wt. %, optionally 40 wt. %, optionally 45 wt. %), wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated, with respect to weight of the one or more polymers in the composite material. Aspect 26b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of metal oxide particles (e.g., iron oxide particles); and wherein a concentration of the first additive in the one or more shape memory polymers is selected from the range of approximately 1 wt. % (optionally 1.0 wt. %, optionally 1.1 wt. %, optionally 1.2 wt. %, optionally 1.5 wt. %, optionally 1.7 wt. %, optionally 2.0 wt. %, optionally 2.2 wt. %, optionally 2.5 wt. %, optionally 2.7 wt. %, optionally 3.0 wt. %, optionally 3.2 wt. %, optionally 3.5 wt. %, optionally 3.7 wt. %, optionally 4.0 wt. %, optionally 4.2 wt. %, optionally 4.5 wt. %, optionally 4.7 wt. %, optionally 5.0 wt. %) to 30 wt. % (optionally 5 wt. %, optionally 6 wt. %, optionally 7 wt. %, optionally 8 wt. %, optionally 9 wt. %, optionally 10 wt. %, optionally 11 wt. %, optionally 12 wt. %, optionally 13 wt. %, optionally 14 wt. %, optionally 15 wt. %), wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated, with respect to weight of the one or more polymers in the composite material. Aspect 26c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow and/or non-hollow glass microspheres (e.g., K25 hollow glass microspheres; e.g., iM30K hollow glass microspheres); and wherein a concentration of the first additive in the one or more shape memory polymers is selected from the range of approximately 0.4 wt. % (optionally 0.5 wt. %, optionally 0.6 wt. %, optionally 0.7 wt. %, optionally 0.8 wt. %, optionally 0.9 wt. %, optionally 1.0 wt. %, optionally 1.1 wt. %, optionally 1.2 wt. %, optionally 1.5 wt. %) to 50 wt. % (optionally 5 wt. %, optionally 6 wt. %, optionally 7 wt. %, optionally 8 wt. %, optionally 9 wt. %, optionally 10 wt. %), wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated, with respect to weight of the one or more polymers in the composite material.
Aspect 27a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is biologically inert and/or is substantially insoluble in a biological fluid under physiological or in-vivo conditions. Aspect 27b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is substantially insoluble in saline fluid over a time period selected from the range of 1 day to at least 6 months.
Aspect 28: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive or the plurality of particles thereof is characterized by a density selected from the range of 0.01 g/cm3 (optionally 0.02 g/cm3, optionally 0.03 g/cm3, optionally 0.05 g/cm3, optionally 0.07 g/cm3, optionally 0.09 g/cm3, optionally 0.1 g/cm3, optionally 1.2 g/cm3, optionally 1.5 g/cm3, optionally 1.7 g/cm3, optionally 2.0 g/cm3, optionally 2.5 g/cm3) to 22.5 g/cm3 (optionally 0.8 g/cm3, optionally 1.0 g/cm3, optionally 1.5 g/cm3, optionally 2.0 g/cm3, optionally 2.5 g/cm3, optionally 3.0 g/cm3, optionally 3.5 g/cm3, optionally 4.0 g/cm3, optionally 4.5 g/cm3, optionally 5.0 g/cm3, optionally 5.2 g/cm3, optionally 5.5 g/cm3, optionally 6.0 g/cm3, optionally 6.5 g/cm3), optionally 0.1 g/cm3 to 5.2 g/cm3, wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated.
Aspect 29: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive or the plurality of particles thereof is characterized by a heat capacity selected from the range of 0.10 JC−1g−1 (optionally 0.11 JC−1g−1, optionally 0.15 JC−1g−1, optionally 0.20 JC−1g−1, optionally 0.25 JC−1g−1, optionally 0.30 JC−1g−1, optionally 0.5 JC−1g−1, optionally 0.65 JC−1g−1, optionally 0.7 JC−1g−1, optionally 0.75 JC−1g−1, optionally 0.8 JC−1g−1, optionally 0.9 JC−1g−1, optionally 1.0 JC−1g−1, optionally 1.5 JC−1g−1) to 4.5 JC−1g−1 (optionally 1.0 JC−1g−1, optionally 1.5 JC−1g−1, optionally 2.0 JC−1g−1, optionally 2.5 JC−1g−1, optionally 3.0 JC−1g−1, optionally 3.5 JC−1g−1, optionally 4.0 JC−1g−1, optionally 4.2 JC−1g−1, optionally 4.5 JC−1g−1, optionally 5.0 JC−1g−1), optionally 0.7 JC−1g−1 to optionally 1.0 JC−1g−1, wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated.
Aspect 30: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive or the plurality of particles thereof is characterized by a thermal conductivity selected from the range of 0.02 Wm−1K−1 (optionally 0.03 Wm−1K−1, optionally 0.04 Wm−1K−1, optionally 0.05 Wm−1K−1, optionally 0.08 Wm−1K−1, optionally 0.10 Wm−1K−1, optionally 0.15 Wm−1K−1, optionally 0.20 Wm−1K−1, optionally 0.25 Wm−1K−1, optionally 0.5 Wm−1K−1, optionally 0.75 Wm−1K−1, optionally 1.0 Wm−1K−1, optionally 1.25 Wm−1K−1, optionally 1.5 Wm−1K−1) to 500.00 Wm−1K−1 (optionally 2 Wm−1K−1, optionally 3 Wm−1K−1, optionally 5 Wm−1K−1, optionally 6 Wm−1K−1, optionally 9 Wm−1K−1, optionally 10 Wm−1K−1, optionally 15 Wm−1K−1, optionally 50 Wm−1K−1, optionally 100 Wm−1K−1, optionally 200 Wm−1K−1, optionally 300 Wm−1K−1, optionally 400 Wm−1K−1, optionally 428 Wm−1K−1, optionally 500 Wm−1K−1), optionally 0.04 Wm−1K−1 to 6.0 Wm−1K−1, wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated.
Aspect 31: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive or the plurality of particles thereof is characterized by a density selected from the range of 0.1 to 0.6 g/cm3, wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated, such as optionally 0.25 to 0.6 g/cm3.
Aspect 32: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive or the plurality of particles thereof is characterized by a thermal conductivity selected from the range of 0.04 to 0.20 Wm−1K−1, wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated.
Aspect 33a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of particles having characteristic sizes selected from the range of 0.030 to 1000 μm, wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated, such as optionally 15 μm to 55 μm. Aspect 33b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of particles characterized by a median size selected from the range of 0.030 to 1000 μm, wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated, such as optionally 15 μm to 55 μm. Aspect 33c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises or is (optionally, is) a plurality of particles characterized by an average size selected from the range of 0.030 μm to 1000 μm, wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated, such as optionally 15 μm to 55 μm. Aspect 33d: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of particles having a median characteristic size selected from the range of 0.030 to 1000 μm, wherein any value or range therebetween inclusively is explicitly contemplated, such as optionally 15 μm to 55 μm.
Aspect 34: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein one or more additive-free crosslinked shape memory polymers equivalent to the one or more shape memory polymers of the composite material are characterized by a polymer-only transition temperature (Tpol,trans); and wherein Tcm,trans deviates from Tpol,trans by no more than 5° C. (optionally no more than 4° C., optionally no more than 3° C., optionally no more than 2° C., optionally no more than 1.5° C., optionally no more than 1° C.) and/or no more than 10% (optionally no more than 8%, optionally no more than 5%). For example, Tm varies by no more than 1.5° C. with vs. without additives where the additives are 5 wt. % HGMs or SGMs (MK-1-39, 8 examples, DBzP as crosslinker). For example, Tm varies by no more than 2.0° C. with vs. without additives, where additives are HGMs or SGMs (MK-1-21, 12 examples, DCP as crosslinker, varying wt. % 0.5-5.0). With Fe3O4, large variations in Tm were seen at 5.0 and 15.0 wt. %. For example, Tm varies by no more than 1.9° C. with vs. without additives, where additives are NaCl, silica gel, K25 HGMs, Fe3O4 NPs, are used at 1.0 wt. % (MK1-7, 8 examples, di-COE as crosslinker).
Aspect 35: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more shape memory polymers is characterized by an upper limit of crosslinking temperature of at least 65° C. (optionally at least 70° C., optionally at least 75° C., optionally at least 80° C., optionally at least 85° C., optionally at least 90° C., optionally at least 95° C., optionally at least 100° C., optionally at least 105° C., optionally at least 110° C., optionally at least 115° C., optionally at least 120° C., optionally at least 125° C., optionally at least 130° C.).
Aspect 36: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more shape memory polymers comprise crosslinking moieties derived from a crosslinking precursor is one or more organic peroxide compounds having a 10-hour half-life temperature (HLT) at least 10° C. greater (optionally at least 5° C. greater, optionally at least 12° C. greater, optionally at least 15° C. greater) than a melt temperature (Tm) and/or the Tpol,trans of the one or more shape memory polymers.
Aspect 37a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more shape memory polymers comprise a crosslinking moieties derived from a crosslinking precursor selected from the group consisting of: a di(4-cyclooctenol) succinate, dicumyl peroxide (DCP), dibenzoyl peroxide (DBzP), di(tert-butyl) peroxide, and any combination thereof. Aspect 37b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more shape memory polymers comprise a crosslinking moieties derived from a crosslinking precursor selected from the group consisting of: a di(4-cyclooctenol) succinate, dicumyl peroxide (DCP), dibenzoyl peroxide (DBzP), di(tert-butyl) peroxide, any derivative thereof, any analogue thereof, and any combination thereof.
Aspect 38a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein one or more shape memory polymers comprise a poly(cyclooctene), a polycaprolactone, a poly(lactic acid), a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or any combination thereof. Aspect 38b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the one or more shape memory polymers comprise a poly(cyclooctene), a polycaprolactone, or any combination thereof. Aspect 38c: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein one or more shape memory polymers comprise a poly(cyclooctene), a polycaprolactone, a poly(lactic acid), a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), any derivative thereof, any analogue thereof, or any combination thereof.
Aspect 39: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, comprising a second additive being different from the first additive.
Aspect 40a: The composite material, method, and/or device of Aspect 39, wherein the second additive comprises a plurality of inorganic particles, a plurality of hollow particles, a plurality of particles characterized by an ultrasound attenuation coefficient selected from the range of 0.05 dB/mm to 10 dB/mm, or any combination thereof. Aspect 40b: The composite material, method, and/or device of Aspect 39, wherein the second additive is according to any of the preceding Aspects but is different from the first additive.
Aspect 41: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the temporary shape is compressed with respect to the permanent shape and wherein the shape change comprises expansion.
Aspect 42: A device comprising the composite material of any preceding Aspect.
Aspect 43: The device of Aspect 42 or 1g, wherein the composite material is an ultrasound-activated actuator or switch of the device.
Aspect 44: The device of Aspect 42, 43, or 1g being a medical device.
Aspect 45: The device of Aspect 42, 43, 44, or 1g being a medical tool, a medical accessory, or medical component for a therapeutic treatment of a living subject or for a surgical procedure on a living subject.
Aspect 46: A method of using the composite material of any preceding Aspect, the method comprising:
Aspect 47: The method of Aspect 46 or 1d, wherein the step of directing comprises exposing each of the one or more portions to the one or more focused ultrasound beams for a consecutive/uninterrupted time being less than 5 minutes.
Aspect 48: The method of Aspect 46, 47, or 1d, wherein the step of directing comprises controlling and varying an exposure time, power, and/or exposure area of the one or more focused ultrasound beams.
Aspect 49: The method of any of Aspects 46-48 or 1d, wherein the step of directing comprises exposing the one or more portions to different focused ultrasound beams characterized by different exposure time, power, and/or exposure area.
Aspect 50: The method of any of Aspects 46-49 or 1d comprising actuating an actuator or switch of a device; wherein the actuator or switch comprises the composite material; and wherein the shape change causes the actuating.
Aspect 51a: The method of any of Aspects 46-50 or 1d comprising setting the temporary shape of the composite material at a temperature equal to or greater than Tcm,trans and less than a crosslinking temperature (Tcm,crosslink) of the composite material. Aspect 51b: The method of any of Aspects 46-50 or 1d comprising setting the temporary shape of the composite material at a temperature equal to or greater than Tcm,trans and maintaining said temperature as the composite material is cooled to below Tcm,trans. Aspect 51c: The method of any of Aspects 46-50 or 1 d comprising setting the temporary shape of the composite material at a temperature equal to or greater than Tcm,trans.
Aspect 52: A method of making the composite material of any of the preceding Aspects, the method comprising:
Aspect 53: The method of Aspect 52 or 1e, wherein the first additive is provided with the monomer and the step of polymerizing is performed in the presence of the first additive such that the first polymer comprises the first additive.
Aspect 54: The method of Aspect 52 or 1e, wherein the step of polymerization is performed in absence of the first additive and the first additive is provided to the step of crosslinking.
Aspect 55: The method of any of Aspects 52-54 or 1e, wherein the step of crosslinking is performed separately after the step of polymerizing.
Aspect 56: The method of any of Aspects 52-55 or 1e, wherein the steps of polymerizing and crosslinking are performed substantially concurrently as one step.
Aspect 57a: The method of any of Aspects 52-56 or 1e, wherein the crosslinking precursor is selected from the group consisting of: a di(4-cyclooctenol) succinate, dicumyl peroxide (DCP), dibenzoyl peroxide (DBzP), di(tert-butyl) peroxide, and any combination thereof. Aspect 57b: The method of any of Aspects 52-56 or 1e, wherein the crosslinking precursor is selected from the group consisting of: a di(4-cyclooctenol) succinate, dicumyl peroxide (DCP), dibenzoyl peroxide (DBzP), di(tert-butyl) peroxide, any derivative thereof, any analogue thereof, and any combination thereof.
Aspect 58a: The method of any of Aspects 52-57 or 1e, wherein the monomer is selected from the group consisting of: cyclooctene, cyclopentene, cycloheptene, butadiene, and any combination thereof. Aspect 58b: The method of any of Aspects 52-57 or 1e, wherein the monomer is selected from the group consisting of: cyclooctene, cyclopentene, cycloheptene, butadiene, any derivative thereof, any analogue thereof, and any combination thereof.
Aspect 59: The method of any of Aspects 52-58 or 1e, comprising selecting the first additive and a concentration thereof to tune the Tcm,trans and one or more ultrasound-absorption characteristics of the resulting composite material.
Aspect 60: The method of any of Aspects 52-59 or 1e, wherein the step of crosslinking comprises setting the permanent shape of the composite material at a temperature equal to or greater than the crosslinking temperature (Tcm,crosslink) for a crosslinking time period.
Aspect 61: The method of Aspect 60 or 1e, wherein the step of setting the permanent shape comprises confining the composite material, molding the composite material, or otherwise applying a mechanical force to the composite material while the composite material or at least a portion thereof is at a temperature equal to or greater than the crosslinking temperature (Tcm,crosslink).
Aspect 62: The method of any of Aspects 60-61 or 1e, wherein an upper limit of crosslinking temperature of the composite material is at least 65° C.
Aspect 63a: The method of any of Aspects 52-62 or 1e comprising setting the temporary shape of the composite material at a temperature within 35° C. of Tcm,trans or a temperature approximately equal to or greater than Tcm,trans and less than a crosslinking temperature (Tcm,crosslink) or an upper limit of crosslinking temperature of the composite material. Aspect 63b: The method of any of Aspects 52-62 comprising setting the temporary shape of the composite material at a temperature equal to or greater than Tcm,trans and maintaining said temperature as the composite material is cooled to below Tcm,trans. Aspect 63c: The method of any of Aspects 52-62 comprising setting the temporary shape of the composite material at a temperature equal to or greater than Tcm,trans.
Aspect 64: The method of Aspect 63 or 1e, wherein the step of setting the temporary shape comprises confining the composite material, molding the composite material, or otherwise applying a mechanical force to the composite material while is composite material or at least a portion thereof is at a temperature equal to or greater than Tcm,trans.
Aspect 65: A method of making the device of any of the preceding claims, the method comprising:
Aspect 66: The method of Aspect 65 or 1f, comprising setting the temporary shape of the composite material at a temperature within 35° C. of Tcm,trans or a temperature approximately equal to or greater than Tcm,trans and less than a crosslinking temperature (Tcm,crosslink) or an upper limit of crosslinking temperature of the composite material. Aspect 66b: The method of any of Aspects 65 or 1f comprising setting the temporary shape of the composite material at a temperature equal to or greater than Tcm,trans and maintaining said temperature as the composite material is cooled to below Tcm,trans. Aspect 66c: The method of any of Aspects 65 or 1f comprising setting the temporary shape of the composite material at a temperature equal to or greater than Tcm,trans.
Aspect 67: The method of Aspect 66 or 1f, wherein the step of setting the temporary shape comprises confining the composite material, molding the composite material, or otherwise applying a mechanical force to the composite material while is composite material or at least a portion thereof is at a temperature equal to or greater than Tcm,trans.
Aspect 68: The method of any of Aspects 65-67 or 1f, wherein the step of setting the temporary shape is performed prior to attaching, providing, or inserting the composite material to or into the device.
Aspect 69: A method of making the device of any of the preceding claims, the method comprising: shaping or forming the composite material of any of the preceding Aspects thereby forming the device, the device being substantially formed of the composite material.
Aspect 70a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect having one shape memory polymer. Aspect 70b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect having two or more shape memory polymers.
Aspect 71: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the shape change is from the temporary shape of the composite material an intermediate shape, the intermediate shape being a shape at some point between the temporary shape and the original permanent shape but before or without obtaining the original permanent shape.
Aspect 72: The method of Aspect 52-64 or 1e comprising providing the first additive at only one or more portions of the shape memory polymer(s) such that the first additive is non-uniformly or non-homogeneously provided in the shape memory polymer(s).
Aspect 73a: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is non-uniformly or non-homogeneously present in the shape memory polymer(s). Aspect 73b: The composite material, method, and/or device of any preceding Aspect, wherein the first additive is uniformly or homogeneously present in the shape memory polymer(s).
Aspect 74: A composite material comprising:
Aspect 75: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the first additive is provided throughout the internal volume of the one or more shape memory polymers.
Aspect 76: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the one or more portions of the composite material having the first additive are heated when said one or more portions of the composite material are exposed to ultrasound.
Aspect 77: The composite material of claim Aspect 76, wherein the first additive absorbs the ultrasound; and wherein the first additive is heated by its absorption of ultrasound and/or wherein heat is created by friction between the first additive and the one or more shape memory polymers when the first additive absorbs the ultrasound.
Aspect 78: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the composite material undergoes the shape change only at the one or more portions thereof having the first additive exposed to the ultrasound.
Aspect 79: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the first additive increases the ultrasound attenuation coefficient of the composite material or of the one or more portions thereof having the first additive by at least 100% compared to that of the same one or more shape memory polymers free of said first additive.
Aspect 80: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the composite material or at least the one or more portions thereof are characterized by an ultrasound attenuation coefficient selected from the range of 0.05 dB/mm to 10 dB/mm.
Aspect 81: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein Tcm,trans is selected from the range of 25 to 100° C.
Aspect 82: The composite material of Aspect 81, wherein Tcm,trans is the melt transition temperature (Tm) of the composite material.
Aspect 83: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein shape change is an expansion, a contraction, a twisting, an unraveling, a curling, an unfurling, an opening, a closing, a bending, an unbending, a folding, an unfolding, a straightening, a lengthening, a shortening, a redistribution or change in distribution of stress in the material, a redistribution or change in distribution of strain in the material, or any combination of these.
Aspect 84: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the shape change occurs as a result of exposure of the composite material or the one or more portions thereof to ultrasound characterized by frequencies selected from the range of approximately 300 kHz to approximately 3 MHz and an energy intensity selected from the range of approximately 1 W/cm2 to approximately 3 W/cm2.
Aspect 85: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the one or more portions having the first additive exhibit heating at a rate of 0.1 C/s to 5 C/s with exposure to ultrasound characterized by frequencies selected from the range of approximately 300 kHz to approximately 3 MHz and an energy intensity selected from the range of approximately 1 W/cm2 to approximately 3 W/cm2.
Aspect 86: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the composite material is characterized by Young's modulus selected from the range of 1.0 MPa to 1000 MPa at NTP.
Aspect 87: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of organic particles.
Aspect 88: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the first additive in the composite material is characterized by an ultrasound attenuation coefficient selected from the range of 0.05 dB/mm to 10 dB/mm.
Aspect 89: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow particles.
Aspect 90: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow glass beads, non-hollow glass beads, or any combination thereof.
Aspect 91: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of salt particles, a plurality of metal oxide particles, a plurality of metal particles, a plurality of organic particles, or any combination thereof.
Aspect 92 composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow glass microspheres and/or non-hollow glass microspheres characterized by a median diameter selected from the range of 15 to 1000 μm.
Aspect 93: The composite material of Aspect 92, wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of hollow microspheres characterized by a median internal cavity diameter selected from the range of 1 to 100 μm and/or an average wall thickness selected from the range of 0.8 to 1.2 μm.
Aspect 94: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein a concentration of the first additive in the one or more shape memory polymers is selected from the range of 0.5 wt. % to 50 wt. % with respect to weight of the one or more polymers.
Aspect 95: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the first additive is biologically inert and/or is substantially insoluble in a biological fluid under physiological conditions.
Aspect 96: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the first additive is characterized by a density selected from the range of 0.01 to 22.5 g/cm3, a heat capacity selected from the range of 0.11 to 4.2 JC−1g−1, and a thermal conductivity selected from the range of 0.02 to 428.00 Wm−1K−1; and wherein the first additive comprises a plurality of particles having a median characteristic size selected from the range of 0.030 to 1000 μm.
Aspect 97: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein one or more additive-free crosslinked shape memory polymers equivalent to the one or more shape memory polymers of the composite material are characterized by a polymer-only transition temperature (Tpol,trans); and wherein Tcm,trans deviates from Tpol,trans by no more than 5° C. and/or 10%.
Aspect 98: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the one or more shape memory polymers comprise crosslinking moieties derived from a crosslinking precursor selected from the group consisting of an organic peroxide having a 10-hour half-life temperature (HLT) at least 10° C. greater than a melt temperature (Tm) of the one or more shape memory polymers.
Aspect 99: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein the one or more shape memory polymers comprise crosslinking moieties derived from a crosslinking precursor selected from the group consisting of: a di(4-cyclooctenol) succinate, dicumyl peroxide (DCP), dibenzoyl peroxide (DBzP), di(tert-butyl) peroxide, and any combination thereof.
Aspect 100: The composite material of Aspect 74, wherein shape memory polymer comprises poly(cyclooctene), polycaprolactone, poly(lactic acid), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), polyethylene, polypropylene, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or any combination thereof.
Aspect 101: A device comprising:
Aspect 102: A method of using a composite material, the method comprising:
Aspect 103: A method of making a composite material, the method comprising:
Some of the following Examples pertain to synthesis of polymers, composites, or ingredients therefor.
To a 20 mL scintillation vial containing the additive (1-15 wt. % relative to cis-cyclooctene+crosslinker) and a stir bar in a N2 filled glovebox is added 1.026 mL of a mixture containing cis-cyclooctene (1.000 mL, 7.673 mmol, 1.0 eq.) and crosslinker (0.026 mL, 0.0767 mmol, 0.01 eq.). While stirring, 6.000 mL of a stock solution containing 2,6-Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol (0.2 mg, 0.0008 mmol, 0.0001 eq.) and G2, Benzylidene[1,3-bis(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)-2-imidazolidinylidene]dichloro(tricyclohexylphosphine)ruthenium, (0.65 mg, 0.00077 mmol, 0.0001 eq.) dichloromethane (DCM) are combined. The solution is allowed to stir for 30 minutes, during which time gelation is observed. The vial is then removed from the glovebox and 6 mL of DCM containing 1 drop of ethyl vinyl ether is added under air. After 30 minutes, the solution above the gel is removed, and the gel is dried under vacuum on a Schlenk line for 48 hours to obtain a solid polymer sample, the color of which varies depending on the additive (
Reagents used in this Example are commercially acquired and used as received except for as described here. cis-cyclooctene is stirred over CaH2 for 24 hours and then distilled under vacuum, followed by storage in a Schlenk flask under Ar atmosphere until use in the above procedure. The crosslinker is synthesized from 4-cyclooctenol and succinic acid as follows.
Succinic acid (1 eq., 0.468 g, 3.962 mmol) and 4-dimethylaminopyridine (0.1 eq., 0.050 g, 0.3962 mmol) are dissolved in DCM (15 mL) under air. Triethylamine (3 eq., 1.700 mL, 11.886 mmol) is added to the solution at room temperature. At 0° C., 1-Ethyl-3-(3′-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC-HCl, 2.8 eq., 2.127 g, 11.094 mmol) is added, followed by addition of cis-cyclooct-4-en-1-ol (2 eq., 1.0 g, 7.924 mmol). The reaction mixture is stirred at room temperature overnight. The mixture was diluted with DCM (30 mL) and an aqueous extraction is performed with water and brine. The product is purified with column chromatography on silica gel. 60% yield is obtained as a colorless oil. Purity is supported with 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. 1H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl3) δ 5.74-5.56 (m, 4H), 4.83 (td, J=9.5, 4.3 Hz, 2H), 2.55 (s, 4H), 2.39-2.26 (m, 2H), 2.19-2.06 (m, 6H), 1.94-1.79 (m, 4H), 1.75-1.67 (m, 2H), 1.64-1.54 (m, 6H).
To a scintillation vial containing dicumyl peroxide (0.5-5 wt. % relative to poly(cis-cyclooctene, 0.005-0.050 g) is added poly(cis-cyclooctene) (Vestenamer, 1.000 g) and 10 mL toluene under air at room temperature. The mixture is stirred for 48 hours at which point it is noted to be a homogeneous viscous solution. The solvent is removed by rotary evaporation followed by drying for 48 hours on a Schlenk line. Dried polymer samples are placed in an oven at 130° C. for approximately 30 hours. Crosslinked samples are characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). (
To a scintillation vial containing dicumyl peroxide (2.0 wt. % relative to poly(cis-cyclooctene, 1.000 g) is added poly(cis-cyclooctene) (Vestenamer, 1.000 g), an ultrasound absorbing additive (0.5-15 wt. %), a thixotrope (Cabosil TS610, 1.0 wt. %), and 10 mL toluene under air at room temperature. The mixture is stirred for 48 hours at which point it is noted to be a heterogeneous viscous solution where only the additive remains undissolved. The vial is agitated until the suspension is homogeneously mixed and the solvent is immediately removed by rotary evaporation followed by drying for 48 hours on a Schlenk line. Dried polymer samples are placed in a suitable mold and crosslinked in a vacuum oven (set to 150° C. for approximately 43 hours. Crosslinked samples are characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) (
Some of the follow Examples pertain to shape memory performance and thermal characterization.
A dried polymer sample synthesized as described in Example 1 and weighing 7.6 mg is placed in an aluminum pan and hermetically sealed. DSC is performed at a ramp rate of 10° C./min for the indicated number of cycles between −40.0° C. and 100.0° C. (
A sample prepared as in Example 1 with no additive (MK-1-7A) is heated to Tm in a 60° C. metal bead bath and then compressed while hot in custom clamp (see below for details). The sample is allowed to cool to room temperature and is cut to a rectangular sheet for DSC (weight 18.7 mg). DSC is run to test the hypothesis that the Tm obtained from repeated DSC cycling is in fact the temperature at which shape memory occurs. The sample processed for DSC reflects the processing commonly used for shape memory testing. In a second experiment, a sample from the same batch of polymer is heated to Tm and compressed from thickness 1.83 mm to 0.33 mm using the custom clamp without the mold insert piece. The flattened sample is equilibrated for 5 minutes in a water bath at increasing temperatures and the thickness is measured afterwards using calipers. The resulting plot of thickness vs. temperature is compared with the DSC results (
Composite samples are synthesized as in Example 1 with varying crosslinker loading from 0.5-1.5 mol % relative to monomer. Resulting samples are characterized by DSC and found to exhibit a linear relationship between Tm and crosslinker loading (
Shape memory is observed in a composite material, crosslinked poly(cis-cyclooctene) containing Fe3O4 nanoparticles, prepared as shown in
A custom screw clamp is fabricated from poly(methyl methacrylate) by laser cutting and includes 3 pieces (
Some of the following Examples pertain to ultrasound induced heating and the shape memory response.
A sample prepared as in
Samples from each of the composites synthesized as in
The additive chosen also affected the localization of the heating response (
More broadly, in various aspects, the shape change is localized to the region in which heating meets or exceeds Ttrans. In support of this observation, a sample containing silica gel as additive is prepared as above, except it was compressed further to form a flattened disc. Photographs of the sample during and after ultrasound exposure confirm that the region of shape change is limited to the region of heating, which in this case occurs only within the area of ultrasound focus (
Composites prepared as described in
To a scintillation vial containing poly(cis-cyclooctene) (Vestenamer, 1.000 g), an ultrasound absorbing additive (5.0 wt. %, relative to polymer), a thixotrope (Cabosil TS610, 1.0 wt. %), dibenzoyl peroxide (2.5 wt. %), and 10 mL toluene are added under air at room temperature. The mixture is stirred for 48 hours at which point it is noted to be a heterogeneous viscous solution, where only the additive remains undissolved optionally. The vial is agitated until the suspension is homogeneously mixed and the solvent is immediately removed by rotary evaporation followed by drying for 48 hours on a Schlenk line. Dried polymer samples are placed in a suitable mold and crosslinked in a vacuum oven (set to 140° C. for approximately 18 hours. Crosslinked samples are characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) (
Polymer samples are synthesized as in Example 2B without additive or thixotrope and with varying crosslinker loading from 0-3.0 wt. % of DCP relative to polymer. Resulting samples are characterized by DSC and found to exhibit a linear relationship between Tm and crosslinker loading (
Polymer samples are synthesized as in Example 9 with varying crosslinker loading from 0.5-4.0 wt. % of DBzP relative to polymer. Resulting samples are characterized by DSC and found to exhibit a linear relationship between Tm or Tc and crosslinker loading (
The kinetics of the crosslinking reaction are followed by making samples as in Example 9 containing 2.5% DBzP but varying the time of crosslinking in the vacuum oven (2 h, 4 h, 8 h, and 24 h time points). The resulting samples are characterized by DSC and found to exhibit bimodal melting and crystallization curves when crosslinking is incomplete. Only the 24 h time point show monomodal peaks for both Tm and Tc, suggesting that the time for complete curing is 8 h<tcure<24 h. (
Lastly, a polymer is prepared with approximately the same thermal characteristics (Tm and Tc) using either DCP or DBzP as crosslinker by varying crosslinker loading. This agreement suggests that these crosslinkers may be used interchangeably to make composites with targeted and controlled melting and crystallization transitions (
Calibration for modulated DSC (mDSC) is completed with a sapphire standard (TA Instruments, 21.97 mg). A quasi-isothermal mDSC run is performed with a Vestenamer sample (9.9 mg) at increasing temperatures with 1° C. steps from 25-30° C. Temperature is modulated by 1° C. for 60 s, followed by a 15 min isothermal period in which data was collected during the last 10 minutes. The average Cp value for each 10 min segment is plotted with a linear fit (
Four cylindrical samples of increasing thickness (1.78-17.73 mm) and constant diameter are molded from Vestenamer 8012. Samples are placed in a 3D-printed holder inline with a hydrophone and a 550 kHz ultrasound transducer. The hydrophone detects ultrasound transmitted by the sample. The average transmission is plotted as a function of thickness, providing an attenuation coefficient of 3.664 dB/cm. (
Vestenamer 8012 is molded to form an ASTM type C dogbone specimen which is analyzed using a uniaxial tensile testing setup (Instron) with a 250 N load cell. The sample was speckled with black spray paint and high-resolution photographs are acquired during the test (Pentax K-1 camera equipped with 100 mm macro lens). The photographs are used with digital image correlation software (Vic) to extract Poisson's ratio. (
A sample of Vestenamer 8012 is molded into a rectangular prism (1.0×0.5×10.0 cm) and placed on the edge of a hot plate set to 41° C. The temperature is measured using a thermal camera (FLIR A655sc) and the resulting data is compared with simulated data (COMSOL Multiphysics). The thermal conductivity of the simulation that best fit the data is, for example, 0.125 W m−1 K−1. (
The 12 samples are prepared as in Example 2B using a drilled Teflon mold to make cylindrical samples of diameter 5.0-5.2 mm and thickness 2.7-3.0 mm. Samples are heated beyond Tm to ˜70° C. in an oven and compressed with the custom clamp (
Here t1 is the thickness of the permanent shape, t2 is the thickness of the temporary shape, and t3 is the thickness after the ultrasound experiment. Samples are exposed to ultrasound in the setup described in Example 6 except with the bath temperature set to 32.0° C. to accommodate the lower Tm of these samples. The Aptflex standard is measured in between each sample and exhibited a heating profile that varied by up to 18.3%. This variation is in response to bubble buildup on the transducer. Loading of beads does not appear to significantly affect the temperature response in terms of maximum temperature reached or the resulting strain recovery ratio Rr. However, there is a significant difference in heating kinetic profile, where the sample containing more K25 HGMs heated and cooled at a slower rate. (
Eight (8) samples prepared as in Example 9 are crosslinked using a drilled teflon mold to make cylindrical samples of diameter 5.0-5.2 mm and thickness 4.0-4.5 mm. Samples are heated beyond Tm to −70° C. in an oven and compressed with the custom clamp (
A narrow rod composite is fabricated as in Example 9 containing 1 wt. % K25 HGMs. The sample is heated to 70° C. in an oven, pulled to approximately 100% strain, tied in an overhand knot, and allowed to cool to room temperature to complete programming. The programmed sample is secured to a dish without a mylar film (open on the bottom) using masking tape. The sample is exposed to ultrasound in the typical setup, except it is in direct contact with the water bath and half submerged. The sample is observed to self-tighten while the temperature monitored via thermal camera never exceeded 43.0° C. Importantly, high temperatures are localized on the composite sample. The bath temperature changed by less than 0.2° C. during the test. The water bath surroundings are contemplated to behave similarly to tissue in terms of heat dissipation. As such, shape change is demonstrated in this experiment without exposure of surroundings to dangerous temperatures. (
2D Simulations are performed using COMSOL Multiphysics with a symmetric boundary condition on the right edge. A polymer sample is modeled containing either SGMs (left), no additive (middle), or a hollow air pocket to approximate HGMs. Low density polyethylene (LDPE) is used as the polymer in place of poly(cis-cyclooctene) since it was already integrated into the software and has similar properties. Additive size is 50, 100, or 300 μm, with the number of particles inversely proportional to size. The polymer properties and ultrasound parameters used in the simulation are given in the
A second simulation (Simulation 2) is performed where instead air is added in place of tissue to more closely model the experimental setup. The polymer reaches significantly higher temperatures in some samples. Different behaviors are observed as compared with certain other cases. For the bubble case, temperature maps show uniform distribution and maximum heating with 50 μm bubbles. 100 and 300 μm cases have localized heating within the lower part of the matrix, and the max temperatures are smaller. For the SGM case, the uniform temperature distribution and the max temperature occur with 100 μm SGMs. For 50 μm SGMs, very small heating is contemplated. For 300 μm, very localized heating occurs at the bottom edge. In summary, the results roughly reflect observations during the experiments, particularly greatest heating with smallest HGMs, iM30k (15.3 μm), followed by S35 (40 μm), and K25 (55 μm). When SGMs are used, the highest temperature is observed with medium-sized glass beads (Avg. size 500 μm) instead of smaller or bigger glass beads. These results suggest that at least the trend of performance of various additives can be simulated, while more quantitative agreement may be achievable in future modeling.
All references throughout this application, for example patent documents including issued or granted patents or equivalents; patent application publications; and non-patent literature documents or other source material; are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties, as though individually incorporated by reference, to the extent each reference is at least partially not inconsistent with the disclosure in this application (for example, a reference that is partially inconsistent is incorporated by reference except for the partially inconsistent portion of the reference).
The terms and expressions which have been employed herein are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention claimed. Thus, it should be understood that although the present invention has been specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments, exemplary embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and that such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of this invention as defined by the appended claims. The specific embodiments provided herein are examples of useful embodiments of the present invention and it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be carried out using a large number of variations of the devices, device components, methods steps set forth in the present description. As will be obvious to one of skill in the art, methods and devices useful for the present methods can include a large number of optional composition and processing elements and steps.
As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a cell” includes a plurality of such cells and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art. As well, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be noted that the terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” can be used interchangeably. The expression “of any of claims XX-YY” (wherein XX and YY refer to claim numbers) is intended to provide a multiple dependent claim in the alternative form, and in some embodiments is interchangeable with the expression “as in any one of claims XX-YY.”
When a group of substituents is disclosed herein, it is understood that all individual members of that group and all subgroups, including any isomers, enantiomers, and diastereomers of the group members, are disclosed separately. When a Markush group or other grouping is used herein, all individual members of the group and all combinations and subcombinations possible of the group are intended to be individually included in the disclosure. When a compound is described herein such that a particular isomer, enantiomer or diastereomer of the compound is not specified, for example, in a formula or in a chemical name, that description is intended to include each isomers and enantiomer of the compound described individual or in any combination. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, all isotopic variants of compounds disclosed herein are intended to be encompassed by the disclosure. For example, it will be understood that any one or more hydrogens in a molecule disclosed can be replaced with deuterium or tritium. Isotopic variants of a molecule are generally useful as standards in assays for the molecule and in chemical and biological research related to the molecule or its use. Methods for making such isotopic variants are known in the art. Specific names of compounds are intended to be exemplary, as it is known that one of ordinary skill in the art can name the same compounds differently.
Certain molecules disclosed herein may contain one or more ionizable groups [groups from which a proton can be removed (e.g., —COOH) or added (e.g., amines) or which can be quaternized (e.g., amines)]. All possible ionic forms of such molecules and salts thereof are intended to be included individually in the disclosure herein. With regard to salts of the compounds herein, one of ordinary skill in the art can select from among a wide variety of available counterions those that are appropriate for preparation of salts of this invention for a given application. In specific applications, the selection of a given anion or cation for preparation of a salt may result in increased or decreased solubility of that salt.
Every composition, material, formulation, device, system, combination of components, or method described or exemplified herein can be used to practice the invention, unless otherwise stated.
Whenever a range is given in the specification, for example, a temperature range, a time range, or a composition or concentration range, all intermediate ranges and subranges, as well as all individual values included in the ranges given are intended to be included in the disclosure. It will be understood that any subranges or individual values in a range or subrange that are included in the description herein can be excluded from the claims herein.
All patents and publications mentioned in the specification are indicative of the levels of skill of those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. References cited herein are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety to indicate the state of the art as of their publication or filing date and it is intended that this information can be employed herein, if needed, to exclude specific embodiments that are in the prior art. For example, when composition of matter are claimed, it should be understood that compounds known and available in the art prior to Applicant's invention, including compounds for which an enabling disclosure is provided in the references cited herein, are not intended to be included in the composition of matter claims herein.
As used herein, “comprising” is synonymous with “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. As used herein, “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim element. As used herein, “consisting essentially of” does not exclude materials or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claim. In each instance herein any of the terms “comprising”, “consisting essentially of” and “consisting of” may be replaced with either of the other two terms. The invention illustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element or elements, limitation or limitations which is not specifically disclosed herein.
One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that starting materials, biological materials, reagents, synthetic methods, purification methods, analytical methods, assay methods, and biological methods other than those specifically exemplified can be employed in the practice of the invention without resort to undue experimentation. All art-known functional equivalents, of any such materials and methods are intended to be included in this invention. The terms and expressions which have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention that in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention claimed. Thus, it should be understood that although the present invention has been specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and that such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of this invention as defined by the appended claims.
This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/299,256, filed Jan. 13, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Number | Date | Country | |
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63299256 | Jan 2022 | US |