Assessment of microstructural architecture and mechanical properties of levonorgestrel loaded PCL/PLGA/HA nanofibers

The combination of Polycaprolactone (PCL), Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and hyaluronic acid (HA) in nanofiber formulations offers a synergistic approach for the development of advanced biomaterials. Understanding the inherent limitations of individual polymers and the modification of key parameters in nanofiber production is crucial for fabricating composite electrospun fibers especially for the purpose of contraception. This study investigates the microstructural characteristics, and mechanical properties of PCL/PLGA/HA loaded Levonorgestrel (LNG) nanofibers for contraception. PCL, PLGA, and HA were mixed in suitable diluents at a ratio of 3:2:1. Levonorgestrel was added to the polymer blend. PCL/PLGA/HA was electrospun with surfactant sodium cocoamphoacetate (CAP) and an outer layer of HA was electrosprayed in the same proportion as stated above. Eight nanofiber samples were fabricated, each varying in collector type, presence of LNG, and additional treatments with CAP. The mean diameter of samples ranged from 6.28 ± 0.27 pix to 5.38 ± 0.07 pix. The tensile strength, Young’s modulus and elongation at break were also determined. This study showed the relationship between formulation and processing parameters and the resulting fiber characteristics via image-based analysis and mechanical testing, highlighting the potential for precise control over nanofiber properties for tailoring nanofiber mats for delivery of Levonorgestrel in contraception. • Microstructural properties of PCL/PLGA/HA loaded Levonorgestrel nanofibers can be optimized to impact on its drug loading/ release and fiber degradation. • Careful manipulation of formulation and processing parameters opens new possibilities for tailoring nanofibers to specific biomedical applications. • The investigation demonstrated that collector type, surfactant inclusion, and processing conditions significantly influence fiber microstructural architecture and mechanical properties.