2005 年 10 巻 1-2 号 p. 13-19
In recent years, there has been a great demand for polymers designed with better functions that include blood and tissue compatibility (biocompatibility) and an antimicrobial activity. The surface modification of existing polymers is one of the most attractive ways to accomplish this. Treatment with plasma, gamma ray or electron beam leads to a sufficient level of activation of polymers so that specific monomers may be grafted. The extent of modification, i.e., the degree of grafting, may be easily controlled by the careful manipulation of the radiation exposure and reaction conditions. Graft modification may be carried out almost on all polymers with the creation of a desired functional chemistry both on the surface and in the bulk matrix. The grafting is applicable to almost all polymer-monomer combinations with enormous possibilities regarding physicochemical and biological characteristics to attain appropriate antimicrobial activity as well as suitable biocompatibility.
