The Use of Electrospun Soy Protein Isolate/Polyvinyl Alcohol Nanofibers for Controlled Drug Delivery As Well As Investigation Into Mass Production

Abstract

As the global movement progresses towards environmental awareness, industries are attempting to become less dependent on petroleum based materials. This study investigates the incorporation of Soy Protein Isolate (SPI) into nanofibers and their potential applications. Initially mechanical testing was conducted; it was found that at 1:1 ratio of SPI to polymer (PVA) was optimal. For drug release test, SPI based nanofibers were tested via three formulations including nanoparticle implementation. Results observed that loading the drug onto the nanoparticle showed sustained release, ~67% release at 70 hours. Mathematical models of both diffusion and erosion confirmed experimental findings. SPI based nanofibers were then utilized to deliver the antibacterial substance silver acetate, nanofibers were made from solutions containing various concentrations. Results showed increase in bacterial killing activity as silver concentration increased (0-1.5%). Lastly SPI based nanofibers were mass produced with a needleless electrospinning machine, linking the developed technology to potential industrial application.