Application of design of experimental (DOE) for the synthesis of supramolecular polyesters

Design of experiments (DOE) is defined as a branch of applied statistics deals with planning, analyzing, and interpreting controlled tests to evaluate the parameters that control the value of a factor or group of factors. It allows for multiple input factors to be manipulated and finally to determine their effect on a desired output (i.e. response).1 Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the influence of reaction parameters on the properties of supramolecular polycaprolactone (PCLUPy2) scaffolds according to a DOE approach. For this, Taguchi method was used to evaluate the statistically influential factors among those described in the literature for obtaining optimum conditions. The role of each experimental parameter was also discussed according to the degree of hydrogen bonds formation of quadruple motifs and the cooperative mechanism.2 The results showed that among the selected variables, reagent ratio and solvent type were the most significant factors affecting the modification degree and hence the mechanical properties of the as-synthesized PCLUPy2. This approach is therefore expected to provide opportunities to create a supramolecular assembly with a significantlyhigher mechanical strength in comparison with those reported in literature

Keywords:

Supramolecular polycaprolactone , Ureidopyrimidinone , Hydroxyapatite , Quadruple hydrogen-bonding , Design of experiments