Analysis of the interaction and effect of magnetic nanoparticles in a bio-compatible polymeric electrospun nano-fibre matrix

The effect of magnetic nanoparticles within bio-compatible nano-fibrous mats is a key idea that has been illustrated recently, exploring the interaction between a select few polymers. This research looks at a new bio-polymeric configuration that focusses on other characteristics, such as the uniformity of the nano-structure, and ensuring that the nano-fibres and nanoparticles are well-dispersed. Material selection has also been fundamental in identifying a blend that will optimise the physical properties of the nano-structure. Iron-based magnetic nanoparticles produce a stimuli-responsive system through the availability of super-paramagnetic particles within the nano-structure. This property has been confirmed through zero-field cooled, field cooled, and hysteresis testing by the use of a superconducting quantum interference device magnetometer. The nano-fibrous mat was produced by electrospinning a blend of chitosan and polycaprolactone. The parameters of this procedure were optimised to achieve the best size consistency. This involved manipulating the applied voltage and polymer concentration. The iron-based magnetic particles were synthesised by the sonication of iron (II) chloride and iron (III) chloride solutions, and were measured to be 5 - 8 nm. They were then integrated into the experiment by adding them to the polymer solution prior to electrospinning. Analysis of the embedded magnetic particles in the polymer matrix was completed using transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy to observe particle agglomeration, and mechanical testing to determine the viscosity of the polymer solutions. The nanoparticles were found to be well-dispersed within the nano-fibre matrix, with minimal agglomeration.