M. U. Munir “Development of electrospun fibers for application in medical devices” doctoral dissertation defense

Thesis defense

Author, Institution: Muhammad Usman Munir, Kaunas University of Technology

Science area, field of science: Technological Sciences, Materials Engineering, T008

Scientific Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Daiva Mikučionienė (Kaunas University of Technology, Technological Sciences, Materials Engineering, T008)

Dissertation Defense Board of Materials Engineering Science Field:
Prof. Dr. Rimvydas Milašius (Kaunas University of Technology, Technological Sciences, Materials Engineering, T008) – chairperson
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hab. Marcin Barburski (Lodz University of Technology, Poland, Technological Sciences, Materials Engineering, T008)
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jurgita Domskienė (Kaunas University of Technology, Technological Sciences, Materials Engineering, T008)
Prof. Dr. Saulius Grigalevičius (Kaunas University of Technology, Technological Sciences, Materials Engineering, T008)
Prof. Dr. Hab. Malgorzata Matusiak (Lodz University of Technology, Poland, Technological Sciences, Materials Engineering, T008)

Dissertation defense meeting will be at Rectorate Hall of Kaunas University of Technology (K. Donelaičio 73-402, Kaunas)

The doctoral dissertation is available at the library of Kaunas University of Technology (Gedimino 50, Kaunas)

Annotation: This study presents the research and development of filtration layers utilizing functionalized nanofibers, demonstrating enhanced barrier performance and functionality in comparison to traditional nonwoven layers used in Medical Devices (Medical face masks). The fabrication involved electrospinning techniques to produce functionalized nanofibers, utilizing sustainable polymers to mitigate environmental impact. These polymers were functionalized with photoactive and organic materials to tailor specific properties. Pre-electrospinning, rheological properties of polymer solutions were analyzed, while post-electrospinning focused on the morphological (SEM) and chemical composition of the nanofibers (EDX, FTIR). Given the intended medical application, antibacterial efficacy of the functionalized nanofibers was evaluated. Additionally, the barrier performance (Particle Filtration Efficiency, Differential pressure) of the electrospun layers were investigated, revealing advantages over conventional nonwoven sheets in terms of cost-effectiveness and functionality.