Merve Dağcı Tekin
This study aimed to develop naturally derived composite nanofibers by incorporating nettle seed mucilage (NSM) into a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix using the electrospinning method, and to evaluate their potential as functional bio-based materials. The produced nanofibers were characterized in terms of their morphological, structural and functional properties. The optimized NSM/PVA nanofibers exhibited a smooth, continuous, bead-free and porous morphology with an average fiber diameter of 159.26 nm, indicating the successful production of uniform nanofiber structures. Characterization analyses further confirmed that NSM was effectively integrated into the PVA matrix whilst preserving the composite's desired structural properties. Furthermore, the incorporation of NSM imparted antioxidant activity to the nanofibers, demonstrating its contribution to the material's functional performance. Overall, the developed NSM/PVA nanofibers, which combine favorable morphological, structural and functional properties, highlight the potential of stinging nettle seed mucilage as a sustainable natural polymer for the development of bio-based nanofiber composites with potential applications in biomedical coatings, controlled drug delivery, filtration and advanced surface engineering.