Electrospinning is the process of using electrostatic forces to distort a pendant droplet of polymer solution into a fine filament to be deposited onto a substrate. The advantages of electrospinning are due to its ability to produce novel synthetic fibers of unusually small diameter and good mechanical properties. This leads to fiber mats with high surface area to volume ratio and the ability to control pore size. There are a number of potential applications for nanometer-diameter polymer filaments including separation membranes, wound dressing materials, artificial organs, nano-composites, and protective clothing. (Why electrospinning?)
We are currently examine the effects of various materials and processing parameters on the morphology of the resultant polymer nanofibers. Specifically, our investigation hopes to elucidate the relationship between the controlled modulation of the electrostatic forces and the morphologies of the nanofibers.
Current Students
Rick Vohden
Debbie Chen
Publications
