Physico-chemical and mechanical properties of novel electrospun polyurethane composite with enhanced blood compatibility

Purpose This study aims to fabricate an electrospun scaffold by combining radish (Ra) and cerium oxide (CeO2) into a polyurethane (PU) matrix through electrospinning and investigate its feasibility for cardiac applications. Design/methodology/approach Physicochemical properties were analysed through various characterization techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transforms infrared transforms analysis (FTIR), contact angle measurements, thermal analysis, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and mechanical testing. Further, blood compatibility assessments were carried out through activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time (PT) and hemolysis assay to evaluate the anticoagulant nature. Findings PU/Ra and PU/Ra/CeO2 exhibited a smaller fibre diameter than PU. Ra and CeO2 were intercalated in the polyurethane matrix which was evidenced in the infrared analysis by hydrogen bond formation. PU/Ra composite exhibited hydrophilic nature whereas PU/Ra/CeO2 composite turned hydrophobic. Surface measurements depicted the lowered surface roughness for the PU/Ra and PU/Ra/CeO2 compared to the pristine PU. PU/Ra and PU/Ra/CeO2 displayed enhanced degradation rates and improved mechanical strength than the pristine PU. The blood compatibility assay showed that the PU/Ra and PU/Ra/CeO2 had delayed blood coagulation times and rendered less toxicity against red blood cells (RBC's) than PU. Originality/value This is the first report on the use of radish/cerium oxide in cardiac applications. The developed composite (PU/Ra and PU/Ra/CeO2) with enhanced mechanical and anticoagulant nature will serve as an indisputable candidate for cardiac tissue regeneration.