Preparation and characterization of shape memory composite foams based on solid foaming method

As we know, shape-memory foams with porous feature are better suited for a certain application compared with their solid counterparts, especially in tissue engineering, drug delivery, filtration, etc. In this study, a type of biocompatible composite foam with shape-memory property has been developed on the basis of biocompatible materials cross-linked poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and silk fibrin (SF). Solid-state foaming method was used to fabricate the composite shape-memory foam. Hierarchical cellular foam with micropore on the cellular wall was observed. To optimize pore morphology, the relationship between cross-linking agent content/reinforcement filler content and PCL matrix was investigated. Excellent shape-recovery property (>97.6%) and shape-fixing property (>98%) have been achieved for PCL foam. For composite foams, SF addition is not too much effective on their shape-memory property by varying SF content.