Electrospun Alginate Fibers: Mixing of Two Different Poly(ethylene oxide) Grades

Summary

Alginate cannot be electrospun on its own and needs a spinnable partner, usually poly(ethylene oxide) - but the molecular weight of that partner is rarely treated as a design variable. This study blends alginate with two PEO grades of different molecular weight, high and low, in combinations chosen so that each mixture can be compared on equal terms, and examines how the choice affects fibre morphology and mechanical properties. The finding is practical: the adjuvant polymer is not neutral, and selecting its grade is part of designing the fibre.

Authors & Affiliations

• Barbara Vigani

  Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
• Silvia Rossi Corresponding

  Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
• Gloria Milanesi

  Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
• Maria Cristina Bonferoni

  Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
• Giuseppina Sandri

  Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
• Giovanna Bruni

  Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, Italy
• Franca Ferrari

  Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy

Linari Electrospinning Systems

Topics

Materials