Polyisobutylene based biomedical materials: imparting new properties and functions

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Polyisobutylene (PIB) is a high performance synthetic elastomer possessing attractive properties including high eleasticity, chemical stability, and water/gas impermeability. It is currently used in many commercial products including the inner tubes of tires, the bladders of sporting equipment such as basketballs and soccer balls, lubricating oils and motor fuels, sealants, and even chewing gum. Despite these diverse applications, currently 80% of the global PIB production is directed towards the tire market. With the continued long term growth of the automobile uncertain due to rising fuel costs and environmental concerns, in order to ensure continued growth of the PIB market, it is critical to explore and expand the applications of PIB in new areas. The biomedical materials and devices markets are particularly attractive as they are projected to have strong long