Fabrication and Characterization of Electrospun Copper Oxide-Cellulose Acetate Microfiber Composite

Abstract

Antimicrobial textiles are indispensable in medical applications. Improving these textiles through the use of fiber composites in their production can further advance its applications. Electrospinning is one of the most practical and efficient methods of producing fiber composites. This research dealt with the fabrication and characterization of electrospun copper oxidecellulose acetate (CuO/CA) microfiber composite. CuO loading, electrospinning applied voltage, and flow rate were varied following a central composite design (CCD). Their effects on the antibacterial activity and morphology of the microfiber composites were determined. The presence of the functional groups of CuO in the FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) spectrum of the composite proved the embedment of CuO in the microfiber. The fiber composite inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, but no antibacterial activity was observed against Escherichia coli. Statistical analysis showed that only the CuO loading has a significant effect on the antibacterial activity against S. aureus while applied voltage and flow rate have insignificant effects. Antibacterial activity has a direct relationship with CuO loading. The increase in CuO concentration increased the fiber diameter and reduced bead formation. Fiber diameter decreases and bead formation increases at increasing applied voltage. Increasing the flow rate increases bead formation and decreases fiber diameter.