Functionalization of PLA nanofibers with PCL blending and TiO₂ nanoparticle addition

Abstract

In this study, the functionality of polylactic acid (PLA) nanofibers was enhanced by blending polycaprolactone (PCL) and adding titanium dioxide (Figure) nanoparticles. Various concentrations of TiO2 nanoparticles, ranging from 1 to 7 wt%, were added to the PLA nanofibers. Optimal dispersion was observed at 3 wt% TiO2, resulting in 493.64 ± 129.78 nm fiber sizes. Blending PLA with PCL in a 1:1 ratio yielded fibers with an average diameter of 513.20 ± 64.85 nm. The addition of TiO2 nanoparticles into the PLA/PCL blends increased fiber pore area due to the larger fiber size. Mechanical testing indicated that adding TiO2 nanoparticles enhanced the strength of the nanofibers slightly, while ductility increased significantly. The results for the water uptake behavior of the fibers showed that TiO2 NP addition improved the water absorption. Antibacterial activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) using the agar disk diffusion method. TiO2 NPs added PLA and PLA/PCL nanofibers demonstrated inhibition zones of 10.46 ± 1.03 mm and 19.30 ± 1.47 mm against S. aureus, and 13.33 ± 1.15 mm and 21.71 ± 1.74 mm against E. coli, respectively.