Measuring Physical Properties of Electrospun Nanofiber Mats for Different Biomedical Applications

Electrospun nanofiber mats are nowadays often used for biotechnological and biomedical applications, such as wound healing or tissue engineering. While most studies concentrate on their chemical and biochemical properties, the physical properties are often measured without long explanations regarding the chosen methods. Here, we give an overview of typical measurements of topological features such as porosity, pore size, fiber diameter and orientation, hydrophobic/hydrophilic properties and water uptake, mechanical and electrical properties as well as water vapor and air permeability. Besides describing typically used methods with potential modifications, we suggest some low-cost methods as alternatives in cases where special equipment is not available.

Automated summary

Electrospun nanofiber mats are widely used in biotechnological and biomedical applications, but their physical properties are often overlooked. In this overview, we discuss the typical measurements of topological features, such as porosity, fiber diameter, and hydrophobic/hydrophilic properties, as well as mechanical and electrical properties. We also suggest low-cost alternatives for cases where specialized equipment is not available.