Electrospinning Using AC Electric Fields

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Electrospinning is a key technology for fabricating nano- and micro-fibers.
• Direct current (DC) electrospinning is widely used, with numerous available systems.
• Alternating current (AC) electrospinning offers potential for sustainable nanofiber production but remains uncommon.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review AC electrospinning concepts, instrumentation, and technology.
• To focus on the electric wind-driven AC electrospinning technique, termed alternating field electrospinning (AFES).
• To discuss advancements, applications, and future directions of AC electrospinning.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on AC electrospinning techniques.
• Focus on the "electric wind" driven AFES, characterized by confined AC electric fields.
• Analysis of AFES process parameters, spinneret designs, and material properties.

Main Results:

• AC electrospinning, especially AFES, demonstrates strong potential for sustainable nanofiber fabrication.
• Significant progress has been made in AC electrospinning over the past decade.
• AFES systems are characterized by a confined AC electric field and lack a counter electrode.

Conclusions:

• AC electrospinning, particularly AFES, is a promising technique for producing various nanofibrous materials and structures.
• Further research and development are needed to overcome obstacles and promote wider adoption of AC electrospinning.
• The review provides a comprehensive overview of AFES, highlighting its benefits, challenges, and applications.