Synthesis and Characterization of Crosslinked Microparticles for Drug Delivery

Crosslinked chitosan and poly(hydroxypropyl methacrylate) microparticles containing a hydrophilic bioactive material, hydroquinone, were synthesized by suspension crosslinking and suspension polymerization, respectively and were extensively characterized. The produced microparticles had a spherical geometry and a smooth surface. The release rate of hydroquinone from the microparticles could be adjusted by varying the degree of polymer crosslinking as well as the initial polymer concentration. The degree of polymer swelling of the PHPMA microparticles could be properly modified by suitable adjustment of the degree of polymer crosslinking and of the composition of the solvent.