Multifunctional polylactide nonwovens with 3D network of multiwall carbon nanotubes

Nonwovens of commercially available polylactide (PLA) were produced by electrospinning using laboratory scale equipment. The nonwovens were subsequently coated with an aqueous dispersion of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), using the padding technique. MWCNT formed 3D networks on fiber surfaces making the nonwovens electrically conducting, with surface electrical resistivity of 77 Ω/sq – 680 Ω/sq. Modification of the nonwovens with methyltrichlorosilane made them superhydrophobic, what was reflected in the water contact angles of 160 − 175°. In turn, electrochemical deposition of silver particles (Ag°) on the conductive nonwovens imparted antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (gram-negative).