Preparation and characterization of pH-responsive Janus composite membranes with unidirectional moisture drainage and antioxidant resistance

Managing wound exudate, alleviating wound inflammation, and monitoring the healing process are the current focus of wound dressing research. However, the preparation of multifunctional dressings that simultaneously perform these functions remains a challenge. In this study, a pH-responsive Janus composite membrane with unidirectional moisture drainage and antioxidant properties is proposed for the wound healing process. This Janus composite membrane takes advantage of the difference in wettability between the hydrophilic polyacrylonitrile (PAN) layer and the hydrophobic polylactic acid (PLA) layer, which allows the fluid to be exported within 3 s and reduces the adhesion to the wound site. When the fibrous membrane was wetted, curcumin encapsulated in the fibers could be effectively released with a high antioxidant activity of 86.82 %. In response to pH changes during the wound healing process, the Janus composite membrane displays different colors under different conditions, which can be used to monitor wound healing. In addition, the biocompatibility of this Janus composite membrane increases the potential for its clinical use as a multifunctional wound dressing.