NANOFIBERS: FABRICATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND THEIR BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS

With the emergence of nanotechnology, researchers have become interested in studying the unique properties of nanoscale materials. Nanofibers are attractive in the biomedical field for several reasons. First, surface area on nanofibers is much higher compared to bulk materials, which allows for enhanced adhesion of cells, proteins, and drugs. Second, nanofibers can be fabricated into sophisticated macroscale structures. The ability to fabricate nanofibers allows renewed efforts in developing hierarchical structures that mimic those in animals and humans. This article describes various fabrication methods of nanofibers including phase separation, self assembly and electrospinning. Electrospinning, an electrostatic fiber fabrication technique, has evinced more interest and attention in recent years due to its versatility and potential for applications in diverse fields. In this review article we have focused on geometrical, chemical and mechanical characterizations of nanofibers and its application in biomedical field. The notable applications are in the fields of tissue engineering, biosensors, wound dressings, drug delivery and cosmetic technology.