Solution properties and electrospinning of poly(galacturonic acid) nanofibers

Poly(galacturonic acid) (PGuA) is an important natural biopolymer, however its potential has not been realized due to its anionic nature and rigid structure, which limits its processability into fine films and fibres. This study aims at modifying the solution properties of PGuA in alkaline medium (aq. sodium hydroxide) to enable their conversion into electrospun nanofibers. Addition of anionic surfactants was found to play an important role in individualizing the PGuA chains that lead to formation of small spindle shaped fibers of length ranging from 2 to 10 μm and diameter from 287 to 997 nm. However, continuous fibers were not formed even at concentrations higher than the critical concentration. Addition of small amount (10-30%) of high molecular weight PVA resulted in formation of continuous fibers. Correlation of fiber diameters of PGuA/PVA with the rheological properties suggested a strong dependence of diameter with the elasticity of the blend solutions. Such PGuA based fibers may be utilized in various biomedical applications.