Functionalization of PLA nanofibers with PCL blending and TiO₂ nanoparticle addition

In this study, the functionality of polylactic acid (PLA) nanofibers was enhanced by blending polycaprolactone (PCL) and adding titanium dioxide nanoparticles. Various concentrations of TiO 2 nanoparticles, ranging from 1 to 7% wt, were added to the PLA nanofibers. Optimal dispersion was observed at 3% wt TiO 2 , 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 TiO 2 nanoparticles into the PLA/PCL blends increased fiber pore area due to the larger fiber size. Mechanical testing indicated that adding TiO 2 nanoparticles enhanced the strength of the nanofibers slightly while ductility increased significantly. The results for the water uptake behavior of the fibers showed that TiO 2 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. TiO 2 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.