Hemocompatibility of sulfuric acid-treated metallocene polyethylene and its application in reducing the quantity of medical plastic waste

Abstract

The hazards of dumping medical plastics have created a huge demand to reduce the quantity of plastic usage without compromising its quality. The metallocene synthesized polyethylene is one such advent, however, its clinical usage is limited by the problem of hemocompatibility. This study investigates the effect of sulfuric acid-induced changes in metallocene polyethylene. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis illustrated the addition of OH and sulfonic acid group, which subsequently increased the wettability. An improvement in micro as well as nanosurface roughness was observed. Ultimately, the treated surfaces depicted delayed clotting time, adsorption of specific plasma proteins, reduced hemolysis, and resistance against platelet adhesion.