Laser fabrication of composite layers from biopolymers with branched 3D networks of single-walled carbon nanotubes for cardiovascular implants

Abstract A laser technology has been developed for fabricating structures from composite layers based on biopolymers: albumin, collagen, and chitosan with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT). The structures are intended for cardiovascular devices and tissue-engineered implants. This is evidenced by the results of studies. The composite layers were fabricated due to the phase transition of biopolymers and SWCNT aqueous dispersion under the influence of laser pulses. At the same time branched 3D networks of SWCNT were formed in the biopolymer matrix. The threshold energy fluence of laser pulses was determined (0.032–0.083 J/cm2) at which a bimodal distribution of pores was observed. The calculation of contact resistances between nanotubes at percolation units of 3D networks (20–100 kOhm) was carried out. Composite layers fabricated by laser demonstrated conductivity values that were higher (12.4 S/m) than those for layers by thermostat (4.7 S/m). The maximum hardness of the composite layers with SWCNT (0.01 wt%) by laser was 482 ± 10, 425 ± 10, and 407 ± 15 MPa for albumin, collagen and chitosan, respectively. The hardness of the thermostat layers was less than 100 MPa. The viability of endothelial cells in composite layers was improved. The composite layers ensured a normal level of hemolysis during interaction with erythrocytes.