Optimization of the activation and nucleation steps in the precipitation of a calcium phosphate primer layer on electrospun poly(ɛ-caprolactone).

The present study aimed to optimize the procedure for coating electrospun poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) fibers with a calcium phosphate (CP) layer in order to improve their potential as bone tissue engineering scaffold. In particular, attention was paid to the reproducibility of the procedure, the morphology of the coating, and the preservation of the porous structure of the scaffold. Ethanol dipping followed by an ultrasonic assisted hydrolysis of the fiber surface with sodium hydroxide solution efficiently activated the surface.