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Engineering biomimetic lubrication with mucin (2015–2017)

Abstract:
Engineering coatings for water to be an effective lubricant is a significant challenge. We seek to emulate how nature builds highly lubricating water-rich polymer films on biological surfaces. This will be achieved by directing the self-assembly of mucin macromolecules onto polymer brushes attached to a substrate, and then cross-linking the constituents to obtain a hydrated gel-like lubricating coating. This research will provide new insights on the mechanisms by which mucin-rich fluids lubricate and protect biosurfaces, which is important to human health, nutrition and well-being. It will also lead to new discoveries for engineering surface coatings for biomaterials and nanomaterials.
Grant type:
ARC Discovery Projects
Researchers:

  • Professor Jason Stokes

    Professor
    School of Chemical Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
Funded by:
Australian Research Council