The mechanical and thermal stability of biomaterials is crucial for their performance in physiological environments, especially in load-bearing or long-term implant applications. This study evaluates how the incorporation of sulfur-doped graphene (S-doped graphene) affects the dynamic mechanical and thermal properties of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx) membranes. Tensile testing revealed that pure PHBHHx exhibited an elongation at break of 128%, indicating high flexibility and ductility. However, the addition of S-doped graphene significantly reduced this value: 5.98% for the 1% composite, 40.9% for the 0.5% composite, and 68.26% for the 0.1% composite. These results demonstrate a clear trade-off between strength and elasticity, with higher graphene content increasing rigidity but diminishing stretchability. Young’s modulus increased with graphene loading, confirming enhanced stiffness due to the reinforcing effect of the nanosheets.PDF Antibody Protocol Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) further confirmed this trend, showing a progressive rise in storage modulus with increasing S-doped graphene concentration. The glass transition temperature (Tg) remained largely unchanged across all samples, suggesting that graphene did not significantly alter the polymer chain mobility or crystallinity. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was performed to assess thermal degradation behavior under nitrogen atmosphere. Pure PHBHHx began mass loss at 224 °C, with complete decomposition occurring at 287.56 °C. When S-doped graphene was added, the onset of degradation shifted slightly downward—281.65 °C for 1%, 277.13 °C for 0.5%, and 285.12 °C for 0.1%—indicating a minor reduction in thermal stability.PIWIL4 Antibody web This decrease may be attributed to the catalytic effect of heteroatoms in the doped graphene or potential defects introduced during synthesis. Despite this, all composites maintained sufficient thermal resilience for standard sterilization protocols, including autoclaving at 121 °C for 30 minutes, which caused no detectable structural changes.PMID:35112146 Furthermore, the biodegradation profile was evaluated using lysozyme-containing PBS solution over 28 days. No significant mass loss was observed in any sample, suggesting that the presence of S-doped graphene did not accelerate enzymatic degradation. This stability is advantageous for applications requiring prolonged material integrity. Overall, while S-doped graphene enhances mechanical strength and surface functionality, it reduces elongation and slightly compromises thermal resistance. However, these modifications remain within acceptable limits for many biomedical uses. The balance between improved durability and controlled bioinertness positions S-doped graphene/PHBHHx composites as viable candidates for scaffolds, wound dressings, and anti-adhesion barriers where mechanical robustness and long-term stability are required without promoting excessive cellular integration.MedChemExpress (MCE) offers a wide range of high-quality research chemicals and biochemicals (novel life-science reagents, reference compounds and natural compounds) for scientific use. We have professionally experienced and friendly staff to meet your needs. We are a competent and trustworthy partner for your research and scientific projects.Related websites: https://www.medchemexpress.com
