Electrospinning has entered the field of biomaterials by creating ultra-fine fibers that mimic the body’s natural structures. This revolutionary process has wide-ranging medical applications. In this interview Carolien de Korte, lab technician at SBMC, offers insights into the science and its impact.
Demystifying Electrospinning
“High-voltage electricity can transform liquid polymers into fibers that are thinner than a human hair,” says Carolien. “These nanofiber-based scaffolds offer significant advantages in tissue engineering, including exceptional mechanical stability, high porosity, and a large surface-to-volume ratio.
They closely mimic the extracellular matrix: the body’s natural scaffolding that supports cells. By mimicking the matrix, these scaffolds create an ideal environment for the body to heal.”
Why It Matters
Electrospinning’s medical applications are diverse: wound care dressings, tissue scaffolds, and drug delivery systems. “It’s especially effective for thin-layer tissues like skin, blood vessels, and connective tissues like the pelvic floor,” Carolien notes. “Synthetic polymers like polycaprolactone (PCL) or natural materials such as gelatin allow customization for specific needs. Hybrid structures combine strength and bioactivity in a single fiber.”
Challenges and Rewards
“The precision is incredible. We achieve nanoscale control over fiber structure and composition. This control is critical for medical applications, however, achieving precision in electrospinning is complex. Balancing solution parameters like viscosity, and polymer chain length with process parameters such as temperature, solution flow rate, and high voltage is key. Pre-spinning tests and repeatability studies ensure reliable results. We ensure spinning stability with climate-controlled chambers and repeatability with real-time data logging.”
Inside SBMC
SBMC is not just a lab but a center of excellence in Contract R&D, where startups, academics, and industry leaders collaborate with our experts, utilizing advanced tools like the Vivolta electrospinning system to drive innovation. “All equipment and procedures are validated according to our ISO 13485:2016 certification”, Carolien highlights. “Our collaboration with Vivolta, a leader in electrospinning equipment, ensures access to cutting-edge solutions. While Vivolta focuses on later-stage development, SBMC excels in early feasibility and small-scale projects.
At SBMC, companies can fully outsource their R&D projects to our skilled team, benefiting from our expertise at every stage of development. For those who prefer a hands-on approach, we also offer the option to rent laboratory space with access to our state-of-the-art equipment.”
Looking Ahead
The future of electrospinning shines brightly, driven by advancements in multifunctional biomaterials, 3D structures, and sustainable polymers. “The science itself is exciting but knowing that the work we do here could help someone recover from an injury or improve their quality of life is truly rewarding,” says Carolien.
Whether you’re an academic pursuing the next big breakthrough or an entrepreneur envisioning transformative medical devices, SBMC is your partner in innovation. Through our Contract R&D services, we provide access to advanced tools, expert guidance, and a collaborative environment to secure an efficient and cost effective process towards clinical trials. At SBMC, the future of biomaterials is being developed, tested, and realized today.
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