*3.3. Wettability Studies*

To evaluate the effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on the hydrophilicity of electrospun PCL/TiO2 nanocomposites, water contact angles were measured on PCL/TiO2 mats and compared to those of cpTi and pure PCL. From Figure 3, it can be noted that a considerable reduction in water contact angle is observed in PCL/TiO2 nanocomposite (2, 5, and 7 wt %), indicating improved wetting properties. The water contact angle of the pure PCL sample reached above 140◦, demonstrating a hydrophobic surface. Presence of polar surface groups (TiO2 nanoparticles) inside the PCL matrix enhanced its hydrophilicity due to a higher interaction between the composite mat and solvent [39]. It is a well-known fact that enhancement in hydrophilicity of a scaffold used in tissue engineering is desirable for initial cell adhesion and cell migration.

**Figure 3.** Water contact measurements on various surfaces obtained as a function of TiO2 wt % with distinctive water droplet images after 5 s from droplet.
