Theses and Dissertations
Date of Award
12-1-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)
Department
Mechanical Engineering
First Advisor
Karen Lozano
Second Advisor
Victoria Padilla-Gainza
Third Advisor
Megan Keniry
Abstract
Extensive research on collagen has spurred advancements in tissue engineering and biomaterial development, given collagen´s pivotal role in regulating various tissue structures across diverse organisms. This study delves into fabricating nanocomposites utilizing collagen, along with silver nanoparticles, chondroitin sulfate and pullulan, for potential applications in antibacterial medical devices, and cell regeneration. Collagen, abundant in the extracellular matrix, provides essential structural support, while silver nanoparticles and chondroitin confer antimicrobial properties, crucial for combating infections. Pullulan, a polysaccharide polymer, serves as a biocompatible carrier for silver nanoparticles whilst being the starting nanofiber forming material. Utilizing Forcespinning® technology, composite nanofibers were successfully synthesized. Investigation into collagen solubility at varying concentrations, its rheology, alongside analysis of nanofiber morphology, thermal behavior, mechanical strength, fluorescence, and augmented water absorption capacity, was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confocal microscope, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).
Recommended Citation
Leon Leal, Valeria, "Fabrication and Charcaterization of Pullulan-Collagen Nanofibers via Forcespinning" (2024). Theses and Dissertations. 1647.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/1647
Comments
Copyright 2024 Valeria Leon Leal. https://proquest.com/docview/3153379907