Multifunctional hybrid materials from poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), TiO2 nanoparticles, and chitosan oligomers by combining electrospinning/electrospraying and impregnation

Abstract

Several types of fibrous material containing poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), nanosized TiO2 -anatase (nanoTiO2 ), and chitosan oligomers are prepared by combining the electrospinning, electrospraying, and impregnation techniques. Simultaneous electrospinning/electrospraying provides uniform distribution of electrosprayed nanoTiO2 along the PHB fibers and throughout the mat. Hybrid materials of different design manifest excellent photocatalytic activity, even after repeated use. They exhibit high bactericidal activity against Escherichia coli. In addition, the fibrous scaffolds are compatible with human mesenchymal stem cells and provide a favorable environment for their development.