Prevention of mold invasion by eco-friendly lignin/polycaprolactone nanofiber membranes for amelioration of public hygiene

Abstract

Herein, we fabricated highly porous and stretchable electrospun nanofiber membranes using eco-friendly lignin and polycaprolactone polymers, which efficiently prevent mold colonization and invasion in pine sapwood. Membranes of different thicknesses were tested against four species of mold. Membrane thicknesses of above 38 μm were found to completely prevent mold invasion during the 2- and 4-week cultivation periods. The membranes were characterized using various qualitative and quantitative analytical methods, including tensile tests. The optimized fabrication conditions were established to protect wood from mold growth and to accommodate the periodic expansion and contraction of wood without degradation. The mechanically strong and elastic nanofiber membranes enable an assessment of the membrane’s suitability and feasibility as an alternative to the existing wallpapers or paints.