Characterization and Performance Evaluation of Magnesium Chloride-Enriched Polyurethane Nanofiber Patches for Wound Dressings

Abstract

Purpose: Wound patches are essential for wound healing, yet developing patches with enhanced mechanical and biological properties remains challenging. This study aimed to enhance the mechanical and biological properties of polyurethane (PU) by incorporating magnesium chloride (MgCl2) into the patch. Methodology: The composite patch was fabricated using the electrospinning technique, producing nanofibers from a mixture of PU and MgCl2 solutions. The electrospun PU/MgCl2 was then evaluated for various physico-chemical characteristics and biological properties to determine its suitability for wound healing applications. Results: Tensile strength testing showed that the mechanical properties of the composite patch (10.98 ± 0.18) were significantly improved compared to pristine PU (6.66 ± 0.44). Field scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) revealed that the electrospun nanofiber patch had a smooth, randomly oriented non-woven structure (PU – 830 ± 145 nm and PU/MgCl2 – 508 ± 151 nm). Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed magnesium chloride’s presence in the polyurethane matrix via strong hydrogen bond formation. Blood compatibility studies using coagulation assays, including activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), and hemolysis assays, demonstrated improved blood compatibility of the composite patch (APTT – 174 ± 0.5 s, PT – 91 ± 0.8s, and Hemolytic percentage – 1.78%) compared to pristine PU (APTT – 152 ± 1.2s, PT – 73 ± 1.7s, and Hemolytic percentage – 2.55%). Antimicrobial testing showed an enhanced zone of inhibition (Staphylococcus aureus – 21.5 ± 0.5 mm and Escherichia coli – 27.5 ± 2.5 mm) compared to the control, while cell viability assays confirmed the non-cytotoxic nature of the developed patches on fibroblast cells. Conclusion: The study concludes that adding MgCl2 to PU significantly improves the mechanical, biological, and biocompatibility properties of the patch. This composite patch shows potential for future wound healing applications, with further studies needed to validate its efficacy in-vivo.