Electrospinning is a valuable production method for nanoscale polymeric fibers. However, a major limitation of the technology is the requirement for use of high molecular weight polymers as a major part of the matrix. Many applications would benefit from a more expansive range in the materials able to be electrospun, including pharmaceuticals, wearable devices and diagnostics and active filtration. In order to realize these more advanced functional materials, composites of polymers and particles must be developed and a strong understanding of how particle inclusion affects the electrospinning process and mat properties is essential. In this work, we examine material systems containing various polymers and active particles, focusing on how inclusion of particles affects electrospinnability and functionality of the fibrous mat. We have found that polymer solutions with high conductivity, hence narrow fiber diameters, tend to trap particles in a web-like structure, rather than within individual fibers. Other polymer-particle systems exhibit a ‘bunches of grapes’ morphology where the particles agglomerate yet the polymer matrix still surrounds them and connects the bunches with fibers. These interesting morphologies can be explained by conductivity, rheology, and particle interactions in the polymer solution. We also examine how particle inclusion affects the viscoelasticity of the solutions and tie this to the electrospinning process window; showing that a finite window of viscoelasticity yields optimal electrospinnability. These results provide a platform for product design for new electrospun materials with high loadings of functional particles.

Large particle electrospinning for increased functionality

2019 Spring National Meeting

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