Evaluation resistance levels of the PCL/Gt nanofiber mats during exposure to PAHs for use in the occupational setting

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are present in the environment as well as in occupational settings. Occupational exposure of workers to PAHs has been associated with an increased risk of developing skin injuries, and therefore, it is very important to limit skin exposure to PAHs. The past few decades have been seen a growing trend toward the use of the electrospinning technique in various applications. It provides an effective means of producing nanofibers with desirable properties. Polycaprolactone (PCL)/gelatin (Gt) nanofibers were successfully prepared by electrospinning. Electrospun PCL/Gt composites were analyzed by scanning electron microscope. The degradation behaviors of nanofibers were examined in both phosphate buffered saline and naphthalene at two different temperatures for 14 days. The highest degradation rate was observed for all nanofibers during the first week. The high content PCL nanofibers degraded at a slightly faster rate than the high content Gt nanofibers. It seems that PCL/Gt nanofiber mats could use for skin care materials during exposure to PAHs.