Explicit Expressions for a Mean Nanofibre Diameter Using Input Parameters in the Process of Electrospinning

Area of Science:

• Materials Science and Engineering
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Electrospinning is a versatile technique for producing nanofibers, but it involves numerous interdependent parameters.
• Controlling these parameters is crucial for tailoring nanofiber mat properties for specific applications.
• Existing models often lack comprehensive descriptions of all influential factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the derivation of explicit relations for key electrospinning input parameters.
• To reduce reliance on traditional trial-and-error methods in electrospinning process optimization.
• To improve the prediction and control of nanofiber diameter for enhanced material performance.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of various electrospinning input parameters: polymer/solvent properties, solution characteristics, device geometry, process settings, temperature, and humidity.
• Focus on deriving explicit functional relationships for a subset of critical parameters.
• Discussion of challenges in developing comprehensive predictive models for fiber diameter.

Main Results:

• Demonstration that fixing most parameters allows for explicit relations for a limited number of entry parameters.
• Potential for significant time and cost savings by partially eliminating trial-and-error.
• Identification of difficulties and limitations in achieving precise fiber diameter approximation.

Conclusions:

• Explicit relations for select electrospinning parameters can streamline process optimization.
• Fiber diameter control is critical for applications in air filtration, tissue engineering, and drug delivery.
• Further research is needed to overcome challenges in developing universally applicable predictive models.