ABSTRACT
38Biocompatible polymeric composite materials are significant in aiding advanced applications for tissue engineering scaffolds and body implants. In the present study, nanoclay-reinforced poly(ε-caprolactone)/starch (PCLCS) hybrid nanofiber was prepared and evaluated for its thermal stability, hydrophobicity, biocompatibility, and storage stability. Solutions of PCL in chloroform and starch in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), both in the range of 10–20% (w/w) were mixed and the nanofibers were obtained by electrospinning at a high voltage power supply. Montmorillonite nanoclay was used as a reinforcement to the fiber mat. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies indicated that uniform fibers with narrow fiber diameter distribution were formed when 15% of PCL and starch were used together with 5% nanoclay. Addition of nanoclay enhanced the thermal stability and restored the hydrophobicity of the surface that was lost due to starch. The prepared nanofibers supported the formation of hyroxy apatite films on the surface, when immersed in simulated body fluid and hence, were proved to be biocompatible. The reasonable long-time stability of the prepared nanofibers stored at room temperature for over a period of 2 years and above was recorded from the FTIR and XRD spectra post storage. The electrospun PCLCS hybrid nanofibrous mats possessing uniform fibers with narrow diameter distribution, good thermal stability, superhydrophobicity, biocompatibility, and good long-term storage stability are suitable to be developed into tissue engineering scaffolds and implant materials.
