Study of the cytotoxicity of nanohybrid films with recycled polystyrene matrix

Abstract

The present work shows the development of hybrid films adapting the sol-gel process with an adequate control in the design of the experimental conditions in order to incorporate silica nanoparticles to a recycled polystyrene polymer matrix (PSR). For a better incorporation between the silica and the psr it was necessary to functionalize the recycled polystyrene with carboxyl groups of abietic acid (PSRF). The psr used for the preparation of nanohybrid films was obtained from fast food packaging products. The cytotoxicity of the psr films without substrate was evaluated, showing viability to be used as protective films on glass substrates, this is of high relevance due to the fact that they do not present a health risk. The hybrid materials were characterized by infrared spectroscopy. Also, mechanical and thermal properties of the hybrid materials developed were evaluated. The glass transition temperature increased for functionalized hybrid materials (HPSF) and recycled–functionalized hybrid materials (HPSRF) due to the presence of abietic acid and silica. All materials increased their contact angle and hydrophobic capacity compared to that of the uncoated substrate. The incorporation of silica particles within the polymer matrix shows interesting improvements in the evaluated properties compared to the hybrid materials obtained from commercial polystyrene (PS). Derived from these results, the materials developed in this work are suggested for applications such as coatings on glass substrates with self–cleaning properties in terms of hydrophobicity and uva radiation protection, which are of great technological relevance today.