Electrospun nanofibers and 3D-printed PCL/Chitosan-based scaffolds for advanced medical applications: a review

Abstract

Owing to their unique and compelling characteristics, PCL and chitosan are emerging as highly promising materials for future medical applications. Herein, the advancements in utilization of PCL/chitosan blend composites and nanocomposite scaffolds prepared through electrospinning and additive manufacturing techniques in medical applications were briefly discussed. Electrospinning and additive manufacturing technologies are receiving enormous attention in developing scaffolds with unique and most desired features including porosity, which is necessary for effective cell attachment and proliferation, nutrient exchange, among others. Electrospun fiber/3D-printed PCL/chitosan hybrid scaffolds are also of particular interest due to their intriguing properties resulting from both fiber mats and 3D-printed structures. In this review, the preparation and property characterization (morphology, mechanical, and biological) are discussed. The influences of various additives such as nanoparticles and bioactive compounds on the resulting properties of the electrospun and 3D-printed PCL/chitosan scaffolds are also discussed.