Polyoxypropylene–montmorillonite nanocomposites for drug‐delivery vehicles: Preparation and characterization

Polyoxypropylene–montmorillonite (MMT) nanocomposites were prepared by an ion‐exchange process of sodium montmorillonite (Na‐MMT) and NH 3 + groups in polyoxypropylene amine hydrochlorides with three different molecular masses (D 230 , D 400 , and D 2000 ). Wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the intercalation of the polymer between the silicate layers. Electrostatic interaction between the positively charged NH 3 + groups and the negatively charged surface of MMT was observed. Acidic ibuprofen and basic theophylline drugs were intercalated into the nanocomposites and characterized by infrared spectroscopy, XRD, transmission electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The amount of drugs in the nanocomposites was calculated by calcination measurement. The in vitro drug release from the nanocomposites was studied in colon and intestinal pHs and compared with drug release from Na‐MMT. The nanocomposite is expected to achieve in situ release for colorectal therapy in future applications.