Processing of quaternized polysulfones solutions as tool in design of electrospun nanofibers: Microstructural characteristics and antimicrobial activity

Abstract The present paper promotes a promising strategic way to design and develop of fibrous polysulfone micro−/nanostructures with morphological and surfaces properties tailored for various applications from biomedical fields. Thus, to guarantee the quality and functionality of the fibrous polysulfone materials on the targeted application, the choice of solvents or solvents mixture for the electrospinnig process of quaternized polysulfone solutions (PSFQ) it was played an important role. Therefore, the surface characteristics and morphological changes of PSFQ fibers, which were analyzed with the technique of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were influenced by the solution properties and the molecular functionalization of polysulfone with quaternary ammonium groups. In order to understand the different macromolecular rearrangements in PSFQ fibers structure, as a result of the quaternary ammonium group's orientation during electrospinning experiments induced by the properties of the used solvents, Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopy were used. Also, investigations on surface of PSFQ fibers, based on the water vapor sorption data, have demonstrated that surface properties of fibers are those dictate their biological ability and not their specific surface. Additionally, by evaluating of antimicrobial activity again two different bacteria strains, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus microorganisms, the practical applicability of fibers was assayed in order to clarify their efficiency and suitability for biomedical applications. Consequently, by the research undertaken, this paper provides a better understanding of the relationship between polymer structure-solution properties and the functionality of the fibers which should be considered as indicators for the future practical applications.