Sample interview questions: How do you approach the characterization and evaluation of polymer materials for biocompatibility and performance in medical devices?
Sample answer:
Characterization and Evaluation of Polymer Materials for Biocompatibility and Performance in Medical Devices
Comprehensive Characterization:
- Physicochemical properties: Determine molecular weight, polydispersity, crystallinity, thermal stability, and surface chemistry.
- Mechanical properties: Assess tensile strength, modulus, toughness, and viscoelasticity.
- Biological properties: Evaluate biocompatibility, cytotoxicity, immune response, and degradation rates.
Specific Tests and Evaluations:
Biocompatibility Assessment:
- Cytotoxicity testing: Determine cell viability and proliferation using in vitro cell culture methods.
- Hemolysis testing: Evaluate the potential for hemolysis (red blood cell damage) by measuring hemoglobin release.
- Immunogenicity testing: Assess the immune response to the polymer by measuring cytokine production and antibody formation.
Performance Evaluation:
- Mechanical testing: Evaluate the mechanical properties of the polymer device under simulated physiological conditions.
- Degradation studies: Monitor polymer degradation over time in physiological fluids or enzymes, assessing changes in physicochemi… Read full answer