A review on electrospinning design and nanofibre assemblies

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Electrospinning is a widely used technique for fabricating nanofibers from various materials like polymers, composites, ceramics, and metals.
• While effective, controlling the assembly of these nanofibers into specific structures remains a challenge.
• The ability to form diverse nanofiber assemblies is key to enhancing product performance and enabling application-specific modifications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the versatility of electrospinning in fabricating various nanofiber assemblies.
• To emphasize the importance of understanding the parameters and processes involved in creating desired fiber assemblies.
• To identify the need for further research into the mechanics of electrospun fibrous assembly formation.

Main Methods:

• Review of electrospinning as a nanofiber fabrication process.
• Discussion of different types of nanofiber assemblies achievable through electrospinning.
• Identification of key parameters influencing fiber assembly formation.

Main Results:

• Electrospinning enables the fabrication of diverse nanofiber structures, including nonwoven and aligned meshes, patterned meshes, random 3D structures, and convoluted fibers.
• The process allows for both direct fabrication and post-spinning modifications to create various nanofiber materials.
• Significant potential exists for enhancing product performance through tailored nanofiber assemblies.

Conclusions:

• Electrospinning is a highly versatile method for producing a wide range of nanofiber assemblies.
• A deeper understanding of the mechanics governing the formation of these assemblies is crucial for precise control.
• Further studies are required to fully exploit the potential of electrospun fibrous assemblies in various applications.