Optimization of elecrospinning of PVDF scaffolds fabrication using response surface method

Abstract

Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) scaffolds were prepared via electrospinning. The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the parameters that influence the average fibre diameter. The objective is to produce fibres with small diameters. The factors considered for experimental design were the applied electric voltage, the PVDF solution concentration, and the distance between the needle tip and the collecting drum. The Central Composite Design (CCD) was used to generate the experimental design whilst the analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to obtain statistical validation of regression models and to study the interaction between input parameters. The optimum operating conditions that guaranteed PVDF scaffolds with small nanofibre diameter were in the voltage and concentration range of 16-20 kV and 10-14wt%.