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Electrospinning Fundamentals: Optimizing Solution and Apparatus Parameters
Published on: January 21, 2011
A systematic study of solution and processing parameters on nanofiber morphology using a new electrospinning
C Henriques1, R Vidinha, D Botequim
1Physics Department, CENIMAT/I3N Faculty of Science and Technology, New University of Lisbon 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal.
Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
|June 10, 2009
Summary
This study systematically investigated how solution and processing parameters influence electrospun poly(ethylene oxide) nanofibers. Optimal fiber morphology depends on polymer concentration, molecular mass, feed rate, and electric field strength.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Electrospinning is a versatile technique for producing polymer nanofibers.
- Controlling nanofiber morphology is crucial for various applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically investigate the impact of solution and processing parameters on electrospun poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) nanofiber morphology.
- To identify optimal conditions for producing high-quality PEO nanofibers.
Main Methods:
- A new electrospinning apparatus was utilized.
- Poly(ethylene oxide) in a water/ethanol solvent was used as a model system.
- Systematic variation of polymer concentration, molecular mass, solution feed rate, needle-collector distance, and electrostatic potential difference.
Main Results:
- Polymer concentration critically affects morphology, ranging from beaded fibers to bimodal distributions.
- Increased polymer molecular mass and feed rate led to larger fiber diameters.
- Needle-collector distance influenced fiber diameter due to competing effects of solvent evaporation and viscoelastic forces.
- Higher applied voltage initially caused merged fibers, but controlling collector voltage allowed for independent charge management.
Conclusions:
- Solution concentration and molecular mass are decisive factors in electrospun nanofiber morphology.
- Processing parameters like feed rate and electric field strength offer tunable control over fiber diameter and morphology.
- The study provides insights into optimizing electrospinning parameters for desired nanofiber characteristics.
