The Integration of Microwave-Synthesized Silver Colloidal Nanoparticles into Poly (Lactic Acid)-Based Textiles as Antimicrobial Agents via Pre- and Post-Electrospinning Processes

This study introduces a novel method to enhance the antibacterial functionality of electrospun nanofibrous textiles by integrating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) into poly (lactic acid) (PLA) fabrics through pre- and post-electrospinning techniques. AgNPs were incorporated into hydrophobic and modified hydrophilic PLA textiles via pre-solution blending and post-solution casting. A PEG-PPG-PEG tri-block copolymer was utilized to enhance hydrophilicity and water stability, while AgNPs served as antibacterial agents. Morphological analyses confirmed uniform, smooth, and beadless nanofibers with diameters between 435 and 823 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy spectra and elemental analysis verified the successful incorporation of AgNPs, with higher Ag content in the post-electrospinning samples. Contact angle measurements showed an improved hydrophilicity of the modified PLA textiles, absorbing water droplets within 2 s. The X-ray crystallography patterns confirmed the amorphous structures of the PLA and PEG-PPG-PEG, with reduced crystallinity in the samples containing AgNPs. Thermal analysis indicated lower decomposition temperatures for the hydrophilic samples due to the plasticizing effects of PEG-PPG-PEG on PLA. Mechanical testing showed comparable tensile strengths but reduced elongation in the post-treated samples. The antibacterial efficacy was assessed against various bacterial strains, with post-electrospinning AgNP incorporation showing the most effective antibacterial properties. The results indicate that integrating electrospinning and nanofiber modification techniques expands the applications of PLA-based protective fabrics for disabled individuals.