Highly aligned electrospun nanofibers/nanoporous fibers

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate a novel method to fabricate highly aligned electrospun nanofibers and nanoporous fibers by multiple isopotential electrodes with different forms as a receiver system, the orientation can be controlled by adjusting the electronic field or by changing the receptor shape. Design/methodology/approach – PLA/CHCl 3 /DMF solution is used to fabricate highly aligned nanofibers/nanoporous fibers by electrospinning. ANSYS14.0 is used to elucidate the electronic field distribution. Findings – Fibers’ orientation directs at the isopotential line of the electronic field. It is very easy to adjust the fibers’ orientation by changing shape of the receiver or by changing the applied voltage. And nanoporous fibers can be fabricated, the average elliptical hole is about 58 nm wide×217 nm tall. Practical implications – Continuous straight and aligned electrospun fibers/nanoporous fibers are especially desirable for products with anisotropic properties. Highly aligned electrospun nanofibers/nanoporous fibers can be easily controlled by adjusting the auxiliary electrode. Originality/value – Numerical analysis is a powerful method in nanotechnology, and the highly aligned nanofibers/nanoporous fibers have many potential applications.