Abstract: Compositions and methods directed to the production of single layer, highly porous, free-standing polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membranes having macro-textured surfaces are provided. The macro-textured surfaces are due to the presence of macroscopic nodal aggregates within the membrane that are connected by fibrils The membranes have high porosity, high airflow, and a bulk density less than 1.0 g/cm3. Articles comprising the porous, single layer PTFE membranes are also provided.

Abstract: Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composite articles that have a macro textured surface. The composite articles include at least two different PTFE membranes in a layered or stacked configuration. The composite article has a macro textured surface characterized by a plurality of strands raised from the surface of the PTFE membrane. The strands may be formed of either interconnected nodes of PTFE or of at least one nodal mass of PTFE and have a length equal to or greater than about 1.5 mm. The macro textured surface provides a topography to the first PTFE membrane. The composite articles have a bubble point from about 3.0 psi to about 200 psi, a thickness from about 0.01 to about 3.0 mm, and a bulk density from about 0.01 g/cm3 to about 1.0 g/cm3.

Abstract: Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward devices, methods, and systems that include a reinforced biopolymer including a synthetic support membrane and a biopolymer. The reinforced biopolymer may have a measured optical transparency of at least 85%, a thickness of about 100 ?m or less, and a toughness of at least 30 KJ/m3.

Abstract: Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composite articles that have a macro textured surface. The composite articles include at least two different PTFE membranes in a layered or stacked configuration. The composite article has a macro textured surface characterized by a plurality of strands raised from the surface of the PTFE membrane. The strands may be formed of either interconnected nodes of PTFE or of at least one nodal mass of PTFE and have a length equal to or greater than about 1.5 mm. The macro textured surface provides a topography to the first PTFE membrane. The composite articles have a bubble point from about 3.0 psi to about 200 psi, a thickness from about 0.01 to about 3.0 mm, and a bulk density from about 0.01 g/cm3 to about 1.0 g/cm3.

Abstract: An implantable containment apparatus for receiving and retaining a plurality of cells for insertion into a patient, such as into a tissue bed, is disclosed. The device includes a chamber having structural spacers therein to maintain an average distance between the first interior surface and the second interior surface of the chamber and to define at least one reservoir space for the placement of cells within the chamber.

Abstract: An implantable containment apparatus for receiving and retaining a plurality of cells for insertion into a patient, such as into a tissue bed, is disclosed. The device includes a chamber having structural spacers therein to maintain an average distance between the first interior surface and the second interior surface of the chamber and to define at least one reservoir space for the placement of cells within the chamber.

Abstract: An implantable containment apparatus for receiving and retaining a plurality of cells for insertion into a patient, such as into a tissue bed, is disclosed. The device includes a chamber having structural spacers therein to maintain an average distance between the first interior surface and the second interior surface of the chamber and to define at least one reservoir space for the placement of cells within the chamber.