Evaluation of PCL and PCL/HAp scaffolds processed by electrospinning and porogen leaching techniques

In order to improve the pore size of the polycapro-lactone (PCL) and polycaprolactone/hydroxyapatite (PCL/HAp) nanofibrous scaffolds, salt-leaching technique together with electrospinning method were applied. Salt particles were incorporated within the polymer nanofibrous matrix and then were leached out to generate some macropores. Microstructure, pore size distribution and average fibre diameter of the scaffold were investigated by scanning electron microscopy and PMI capillary flow porometer. Mechanical properties were determined by means of tensile test. Presence of hydroxyapatite and chemical characterization of the scaffold were done by FTIR analysis.