PVA nanofibers: electrospinning techniques and pharmaceutical applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers are biocompatible and aqueous-processable, making them promising for various biomedical applications.
• Electrohydrodynamic fabrication methods are advancing for PVA nanofiber production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advances in PVA nanofiber fabrication, formulation, and applications.
• To identify challenges and industrialization pathways for PVA nanofibers.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of advances in electrohydrodynamic fabrication techniques (e.g., melt, coaxial, multilayer spinning).
• Analysis of formulation strategies (crosslinking, blending, core-shell architectures) for tunable properties.
• Summary of application evidence in drug delivery and tissue engineering.

Main Results:

• PVA nanofiber properties (morphology, stability, performance) are tunable via solution properties and processing parameters.
• Formulation strategies yield water-responsive materials for controlled release of various therapeutics.
• Industrialization pathways like needleless spinning and roll-to-roll processing can enhance productivity and uniformity.

Conclusions:

• PVA nanofibers present a versatile platform for drug delivery and tissue engineering.
• Key challenges include manufacturing scalability, aqueous stability, and regulatory approval for specific routes.
• Successful translation requires GMP-ready processes, robust characterization, and addressing route-specific requirements.