Lubricant‐Infused Polymeric Interfaces: A Stretchable and Anti‐Fouling Surface for Implantable Biomaterials

Abstract

AbstractDeveloping thin, highly stretchable coatings that inhibit the undesirable adhesion of biological substances on soft and high‐water‐content biomaterial surfaces is an area of significant interest. In this study, a stretchable antifouling coating named lubricant‐infused poly(1,3,5,7‐tetramethyl‐1,3,5,7‐tetravinyl cyclotetrasiloxane) (V4D4) is introduced interface with perfluoropolymer (L‐VIP). The stretchable adhesive‐perfluoropolymer bilayer comprises stretchable adhesive polymer (V4D4) and perfluoropolymer (1H,1H,2H,2H‐perfluorooctyl methacrylate (FOMA)). The bilayer exhibits a strong affinity with the lubricant, imparting exceptional antifouling and slippery properties. L‐VIP coating displays superior fouling resistance against plasma proteins related to foreign body reactions (FBR) and biofilm‐forming bacteria. The coating exhibits impressive elastic limits exceeding 200% strain and exceptional stability under repeated cyclic stretching (> 2000 cycles at 150% strain) while maintaining its antifouling properties. Furthermore, the coating presents dielectric performance under accelerated aging conditions at a temperature of 70° and constant voltage stress of 10 V s−1 for over 50 days. To assess the biocompatibility of the L‐VIP coating, a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments are conducted, confirming its non‐toxicity for biomedical applications. It is expected that the stretchable L‐VIP coating will enhance medical devices’ longevity and help prevent bacterial infections, the formation of biofilms, and the nonspecific adherence of biological substances after implantation.