PLA/PHBV electrospun membrane: Fabrication, coating with conductive PEDOT:PSS and antibacterial activity of drug loaded membrane

Abstract

In this study, biodegradable and biocompatible polylactic acid (PLA) and poly(3-hyroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) blend polymer solutions were electrospun using electrospinning technique. Polymer blend ratio and electrospinning voltage were varied and optimized. The fabricated electrospun PLA/PHBV membranes were dipped into poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) solution to produce conductive PEDOT:PSS coated membranes. The coated and uncoated membranes were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and water uptake measurement. PEDOT:PSS coated membranes were then loaded with drug (tetracycline hydrochloride) and their antibacterial activity was investigated. Beadless PLA/PHBV membranes were successfully fabricated. The fabricated PLA/PHBV membranes were rendered conductive by dipping them into poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) solution. Drug loaded membranes showed antibacterial properties which was confirmed by zone inhibition method.