Non-concentric multi-compartment fibers fabricated using a modified nozzle in single-step electrospinning

Multi-compartment fibers with well-defined regions and functional media hosting potential provide co-encapsulation opportunities for a variety of bio-molecules, drugs and even nutrients. In this research, fibers possessing multiple compartments were prepared using the single-step electrospinning method and a modified non-concentric multi-needle. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) was used as the fiber shell material, while ketoconazole (KCZ, model drug) and Sudan Red (model probe) were encapsulated as two separate segments running along the fiber length. Multi-compartment fiber morphology and structure were examined using optical and electron microscopy. The effect of flow rate on fiber morphology was also investigated and the release of encapsulated KCZ and Sudan Red was examined using UV spectroscopy. The results present an efficient and promising method to engineer multi-compartment fibers in a single step for several biomedical applications in lieu.