Self-Sanitizing Polycaprolactone Electrospun Nanofiber Membrane with Ag Nanoparticles

The objective of this research was to develop an environment-friendly and scalable method for the production self-sanitizing electrospun nanofibers. This achieved by immobilizing silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) onto plasma-treated surfaces biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL) plasma deposited polymer layer containing carboxyl groups played a critical role in providing uniform distribution Ag NPs on nanofiber surface. ions were absorbed electrostatic interaction then reduced under action UV-light. concentration release analyzed using EDXS/XPS ICP AES methods, respectively. Although high levels detected after 3 h immersion water, material retained sufficient amount surface (~2.3 vs. 3.5 at.% as determined XPS), rate subsequently decreased over next 69 h. antipathogenic properties PCL-Ag tested against gram-negative gram-positive bacteria, fungi, biofilm formation. results showed that nanofibers exhibit significant antimicrobial activity wide range microorganisms, including those cause human infections. incorporation into PCL resulted can be used variety applications, wound dressings, water treatment, air filtration. development simple, scalable, environmentally friendly fabrication these is essential ensure their widespread use various industries. ability control will optimize efficacy while minimizing potential toxicity cells environment.