Study On The Preparation And Properties Of Porous Gelatin Scaffolds By Emulsion Freeze-drying Method

Objectives To prepare porous gelatin scaffolds by emulsion freeze-drying method for tissue repair, to investigate the influence of the main preparation parameters on scaffold properties and provide the basis for preparation of the scaffolds used for further cell culture and clinical application. Methods The gelatin solutions were mixed with pentanol at certain volume ratios to obtain stable emulsion. The emulsion was frozen, freeze-dried and then treated using ethyl alcohol to get scaffolds. The microstructure of the scaffolds was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the properties were characterized by the apparent density, water uptake ability and porosity. Results The gelatin scaffolds had interconnected pore structure with average pore diameter of 15μm～40μm and porosity larger than 90%. The solid content of emulsion and the pre-freezing temperature affected the microstructure, apparent density, water uptake ability and porosity of scaffolds. Conclusion Porous gelatin scaffolds can be successfully prepared by emulsion freeze-drying method. By controlling the reaction conditions, the pore structure and properties can be adjusted to satisfy the needs.