Fabrication and Characterization of Electrospun Sodium Alginate–Bacterial Cellulose Nanocomposite Scaffolds for Potential Wound Dressing Application

Abstract

ABSTRACT Traditional wound dressings lack advanced wound‐healing functionalities, with added difficulties of frequent replacements. Electrospinning is an exciting avenue for fabricating biomedical dressings with improved performance. This study presents the development of a novel electrospun nanocomposite scaffold composed of sodium alginate (SA) and polyethylene oxide (PEO), crosslinked with calcium ions and subsequently coated with bacterial cellulose (BC) for prospective wound dressing applications. A post‐electrospinning dip‐coating strategy was employed to preserve the structural integrity of both SA and BC, addressing limitations of traditional BC‐polymer composites. SEM analysis revealed uniform, bead‐free nanofibers with interconnected porosity, promoting breathability and moisture exchange. FTIR confirmed functional group retention post‐coating, while DSC indicated thermal stability above physiological temperatures. Mechanical testing showed a Young's modulus of 1.99 MPa and strain‐at‐break of 2.27%, comparable to commercial dressings such as Aquacel Extra and Kaltostat. Coating consistency was validated through thickness analysis, with over 92% retention after aqueous immersion. Solubility tests demonstrated hydrolytic responsiveness and coating stability under moist conditions. These results highlight the scaffold's mechanical resilience, structural compatibility, and process scalability. The developed SA/PEO–BC composite presents a promising, cost‐effective platform for wound care. Future investigations will explore its biological activity, antibacterial performance, and in vivo efficacy for clinical translation.