LAUSR

PurposeElectrospinning and nanofiber-based products have become popular in many areas in recent years. The increase in product range has brought various necessities such as sterilization. Conventional sterilization methods can be applied to nanofiber-based products. However, their effects on different properties of nanofibers must be carefully evaluated.MethodsIn this study, the effects of ultraviolet (UV) exposure time on the average fiber diameter, contact angle, mechanical and bioadhesion properties, and drug content of the nanofiber wound dressing were investigated.ResultsThe duration of exposure time for 1 and 2 h did not cause any significant changes in the properties of the nanofibers. However, the 3-h UV exposure time significantly reduced the contact angle and tensile strength values (p < 0.05). The sterilization efficiency on both the fluid thioglycolate medium and the soybean casein digest medium was determined to be sufficient for 2 and 3 h of sterilized samples.ConclusionThis study showed that UV sterilization can be used for the sterilization of nanofiber products without damaging the membrane properties. On the other hand, the UV exposure time must be carefully determined.