Effects of β-cyclodextrin on selected properties of electrospun thermoplastic polyurethane nanofibres

Cyclodextrins are one of the most promising materials for the development of products with advanced properties due to inclusion complex formation ability with a wide variety of substances. More specifically, incorporation of cyclodextrins into electrospun nanofibrous materials is considered as potential candidates for functional textile applications. This study examines the electrospinning of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanofibres including β-cyclodextrin and investigates the effects of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) on resultant fibre properties. TPU/CD nanofibres were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, FTIR, TGA and DSC analysis. Additionally phenolphthalein absorption tests were applied. It was observed that the incorporation of β-CD increased the mean fibre diameter and heterogeneity of nanofibrous membranes. The effects of β-CD on the thermal properties of TPU membranes were shown. It was proven that β-CD within TPU nanostructure could be able to form inclusion complexes. TPU/CD nanofibres are believed to have good potentials for functional textile applications.