Graduate Student Rowan University Cherry Hill, New Jersey, United States
Introduction: Electrospinning is a versatile technique used to fabricate nanofibers, which are characterized by their sub-micrometer diameter and high surface-area-to-volume ratio. This technology allows for the controlled manipulation of fiber properties such as diameter, alignment, and density, making it suitable for a broad range of applications including filtration, life sciences, and diagnostics. Specifically, lateral flow assays (LFAs) benefit from nanofiber integration, enhancing sensitivity and specificity due to increased surface area for biomolecule interaction. However, the impact of nanofiber alignment and density on fluid dynamics within LFAs remains underexplored, prompting this study to fill this crucial research gap.
Materials and
Methods: In this research, we utilized our lab’s unique Automated Track Electrospinning System to fabricate nanofiber strips from cellulose acetate (CA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) with varied densities and alignments. A 20% w/v solution of CA and an 18% w/v solution of PCL were prepared and electrospun under controlled conditions to produce fibers with horizontal, vertical, and random orientations. These nanofibers were then assembled into strips and tested for fluid flow characteristics using a rhodamine dye solution, enabling the observation and measurement of flow rates through the nanofiber matrices.
Results, Conclusions, and Discussions: The study revealed that fiber alignment significantly influences fluid flow within nanofiber matrices. For CA, horizontal and vertical alignments enhanced fluid dynamics, with vertical alignment facilitating faster flow rates. Conversely, random alignment impeded flow, particularly without paper backing. PCL nanofibers, however, showed negligible fluid movement, underscoring a material-dependent response in fluid transport applications. These findings suggest that manipulating fiber alignment and density can tailor fluid flow in LFAs, potentially improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. This research highlights the potential of nanofiber customization to optimize fluid dynamics in diagnostic applications. By controlling nanofiber properties, LFAs can be designed to meet specific diagnostic needs, enhancing the reaction times and interaction of fluids with reactive agents. Further studies could explore the integration of dynamically responsive materials to improve the sensitivity and specificity of LFAs, extending their applicability in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and food safety.
Acknowledgements (Optional): Dr. Vince Beachley Lab, Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey
