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Effect of Electrode Type on Electrospun Membrane Morphology Using Low-Concentration PVA Solutions
Zane Zelca1, Andres Krumme2, Silvija Kukle1
1Institute of Design Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry, Riga Technical University, LV-1048 Riga, Latvia.
Membranes
|June 23, 2022
Summary
This study optimized electrospun polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) membranes by investigating electrode type, spinning parameters, and solution properties. Findings reveal how these factors influence fiber diameter and membrane homogeneity for advanced material applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Electrospun polymer nanofibers are versatile materials with tunable morphology.
- Controlling fiber characteristics is crucial for diverse applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of electrode type, spinning parameters, polymer molecular weight, and solution concentration on electrospun membrane morphology.
- To achieve minimal fiber diameters and homogeneous electrospun membranes.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymers (30-145 kDa) in 6-10 wt.% solutions.
- Assessed solution properties: viscosity, conductivity, pH, and density.
- Analyzed membrane morphology, fiber diameters, and defects based on molecular weight and electrode type.
Main Results:
- Identified optimal electrode types and the lowest stable PVA concentration for electrospinning.
- Determined spinning parameters yielding homogeneous fibers.
- Demonstrated that lower PVA concentrations facilitate thinner fibers and higher additive incorporation.
Conclusions:
- Polymer molecular weight, solution concentration, and electrode type significantly influence fiber diameter and membrane quality.
- Optimized electrospinning parameters are key to producing high-quality nanofiber membranes.
