Blood compatible heparin–benzalkonium modified montmorillonite /PDMS composites

Heparin–benzalkonium modified montmorillonite/poly(dimethylsiloxane)(PDMS) films were prepared by solution intercalation. The films were characterized by XRD, TEM. The modified Mt was homogeneously dispersed within the PDMS matrix. The Swelling behavior of samples was measured by the mass changes in water. The effect of modified Mt on the mechanical properties of the nanocomposite films was investigated. At Mt contents < 2 mass %, the films showed excellent mechanical properties. The films released heparin slowly making the films blood compatible. The hemocompatibility of the modified-Mt/PDMS films was further assessed by fibrinogen adsorption tests and platelet adhesion tests in vitro. The anticoagulation properties of the modified-Mt/PDMS films were highly superior to pure PDMS films. Therefore, these films have potential applications in blood-contacting devices.