Investigation of Triton X-100 Use in PVA Nanofiber Production

Abstract

Polyvinylalcohol (PVA) is a hydrophilic, non-toxic, and biocompatible semi-crystalline biomaterial. Today, PVA nanofibers are widely used in the field of biomaterials, as they provide high surface area and a favorable environment for the growth of cells. PVA nanofibers are used in the construction or repair of scaffold types for tissue engineering applications, thanks to positive effect of their three-dimensional structure on cell proliferation and growth. In addition, the use of PVA nanofiber structures in many areas such as drug release, wound dressing, filters and soft tissue applications is becoming widespread. The electrospinning method, which is frequently preferred in the production of polymer nanofibers, draws attention with its low cost and easy application. In the electrospinning method, nanofiber structure is formed by applying high voltage to the polymer solution prepared at a predetermined rate, and nanofiber mat production is carried out by depositing it in a collector. However, structural problems such as bead structure encountered in nanofiber mat production prevent homogeneous nanofiber formation. Various surface agents are used in nanofiber mats to obtain a homogeneous fiber structure, to prevent defects in nanofibers and as a result to increase the mechanical properties of PVA nanofibers. In this study, it is aimed to determine the effect of Triton X-100 surface agent that used in the production of PVA nanofibers. For this purpose, firstly, the rheological effect of Triton X-100 surface agent on nanofiber properties was determined. Then, the effect on the morphological properties of nanofibers produced with Triton X-100 surface agent was investigated. The results revealed that varying Triton X-100 amounts cause changes in the nanofiber structure.