Synthesis and Characterization of a Novel Zn-polycarboxylate Ocular Adhesive

Abstract A Zn-polycarboxylate biocompatible adhesive was synthesized from polyacrylic acid and Zn-acetate solutions. The influence of reactant concentration, from 1 to 3 N, on the properties of this compound, was studied. The reaction product was characterized by both infrared (IR) and Raman spectroscopies and scanning electron microscopy. Adhesion behavior was evaluated by 90° and 180° peel-out testing using wood and cowhide as substrates, to simulate bonding to living tissue. The measured adhesion strength increases with reactant concentration. In-vivo tests were performed in dogs. Preliminary results show a transparent and flexible polymer material with very good adhesion to cornea tissue.