elektrospinning

Electrospinning is a modern technology for producing very thin fibers (nanofibers) from polymer solutions or melts using a strong electric field. The resulting fibers have a diameter ranging from tens to several hundred nanometers and create nonwoven layers with unique properties. Basic components: the electrospinning device consists of a high-voltage source, a dosing system (e.g. a syringe with a needle), and a grounded collector on which the formed fibers are deposited. Process: The polymer solution is dosed through a needle to which a high voltage is applied (usually 5–50 kV). The electric field causes the solution drop to stretch into the shape of a so-called Taylor cone and a thin stream (jet) is torn from its tip, which is elongated and thinned due to electrostatic forces. During the flight, the solvent evaporates and solid nanofibers are deposited on the collector.