Fabrication of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) starch-based ultrafine fibers: Investigation of fundamental and antimicrobial properties

Abstract

Micro/nano-based fibrous membranes loaded with antibacterial agents have been widely studied in the medical field. In this research, we describe the development of a new environmentally friendly medical dressing based on centrifugally spun cassava starch-based ultrafine fibers loaded with nanosilver (Ag). For this purpose, the spinnability of amylopectin-rich native cassava starch in a centrifugal spinning system was investigated. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was applied to improve the water stability and mechanical properties of the starch-based fibers, and the water stability of the fibers was further improved by posttreatment with formic acid. The morphology, structure, thermal, and tensile properties were studied. The results indicated that the native cassava starch showed excellent spinnability in the centrifugal spinning system. The tensile strength and water stability of the obtained fibrous membranes were improved by adding PVA and further improved after the posttreatment. The antibacterial properties of fibers loaded with Ag were evaluated through a bacteriostatic zone test, and the results showed that the fibers presented good antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli. Therefore, the obtained fibers have great potential for application in the medical dressing field.