| abstract |
The present invention provides a process for preparing a self-standing catecholamine-based membrane, the process comprising the steps of: (a) cross-linking a catechol derivative with an amine selected from the group consisting of: a known aliphatic amine hydrocarbon of formula (II); and an aromatic amine of formula (IIbis), in a liquid medium, wherein both the catechol and the amine are soluble, at a pH comprised from 6.5 to 10, and under appropriate agitation to create a catecholamine membrane in the air/liquid interface in the absence of any support; and b) isolating the membrane resulting from step (a) from the air/liquid interface. The resulting self-standing catecholamine-based membrane was robust, easy to handle and manipulate, highly flexible and adaptable to any kind of surface without breaking, and adhesive. In addition, the free-standing membrane of the invention shows a Janus character, with an unexpected nanopatterning in the water-contact side which endows the membranes of the invention with a higher roughness surface, something of value to promote cell adhesion. |