PLLA scaffold modification using magnetron sputtering of the copper target to provide antibacterial properties

Using the electrospinning method, we produced biodegradable scaffolds from poly-l-lactide acid polymer (PLLA – poly-l-lactide acid). Using DC magnetron sputtering of the copper target we modified the surface of the scaffolds. For investigate scaffolds morphology, structure and elemental composition were used scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and X-ray fluorescence analysis. The results of scanning electron microscopy reveal that scaffolds consist of chaotically located fibres. The diameters of fibres range from 0.8 to 2 µm. Initially amorphous scaffold after modification has crystalline structure. The count of oxygen and copper with modification is increased, but count of carbon decreased. For the investigation of the scaffolds wetting ability were used glycerol and water. The wetting angles for the both liquids were similarly comparable. The values for the wetting angles range from 114 ± 5° to 125 ± 5°, what indicated that scaffolds had hydrophobic properties. Testing for antibacterial features indicated that the modified scaffolds are capable to have a bacteriostatic effect. Compared to the number of bacteria cultured without scaffold (11.8 ± 1.26 CFU × 10⁴/ml), two modified samples have bacteriostatic properties (reducing the number of bacteria on 30 and 50%). Economically effective method PLLA scaffolds modification could be used for creating low-cost wound dressings with antibacterial properties.