Characterization and Optimization of Using Calendula Officinalis Extract in The Fabrication of Polycaprolactone/Gelatin Electrospun Nanofibers for Wound Dressing Applications

Wound dressing application of nanofibers is a progressive field of research, which could be enhanced by using medicinal plant extract to bring some more advantages. Here we optimized the electrospinning method for fabrication of polycaprolactone/gelatin mixed with a medicinal plant extract, calendula officinalis. Characterization techniques, including fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and water contact angle analysis were performed on the electrospun nanofibers to achieve the best formulation proper for wound dressing. In results, the concentration 12% (w/v) with an applied voltage of 20 kV and 13 cm of distance between needle and collector, does pose the lowest diameters with the highest porosity among others. The hydrophilicity of the nanofibers was enhanced by adding the calendula extract. In addition, the analysis of mechanical strength showed that the elasticity of polycaprolactone (PCL)/gelatin (Gel)/calendula (Cal) nanofibers are still acceptable. Overall, the results of characterization tests were approved that the electrospun nanofibers of PCL/Gel/Cal does have appropriate characteristics to be used as wound dressing and could be suggested to clinicians.