Processing of poly(1,3-bis-(p-carboxyphenoxy propane)-co-(sebacic anhydride)) 20:80 (P(CPP:SA)20:80) by matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation for drug delivery systems

Abstract We have demonstrated successful thin film growth of poly(1,3-bis-( p -carboxyphenoxy, propane)- co -(sebacic anhydride)) (20:80) by matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation using a KrF* excimer laser ( λ = 248 nm, τ = 25 ns, ν = 10 Hz). The deposited thin films have been investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. We have demonstrated that the main functional groups of poly(1,3-bis-( p -carboxyphenoxy, propane)- co -(sebacic anhydride)) (20:80) are present in the deposited film. The effect of matrix on both thin film structure and surface morphology was also examined. The goal of this work is to explore laser processing of this material to create suitable constructs for drug delivery applications.