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Electrospinning Induced Orientation of Protein Fibrils
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Electrospinning preparation and photoluminescence properties of poly (methyl methacrylate)/Eu{sup 3+} ions composite nanofibers and nanoribbons
Graphical abstract: Nanofibers and nanoribbons of poly (methyl methacrylate)/Eu{sup 3+} ions composites were successfully prepared by using a simple electrospinning technique. And the photoluminescence properties of the above PMMA/Eu{sup 3+} ions composites were studied. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nanofibers and nanoribbons of PMMA/Eu{sup 3+} ions composites are fabricated by electrospinning. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Photoluminescence properties of as-electrospun PMMA/Eu{sup 3+} ions composites are studied. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The ratios of electric- and magnetic-dipole transitions are enhanced by increasing electrospinning voltage. -- Abstract: Nanofibers and nanoribbons of poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/Eu{sup 3+} ions composites with different concentration of Eu{sup 3+} ions were successfully prepared by using a simple electrospinning technique. From the results of scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, we found that the morphology of the as-electrospun PMMA/Eu{sup 3+} ions composites could be changed from fiber to ribbon structure by adjusting the concentration of Eu{sup 3+} ions in the electrospun precursor solution. The coordination between the Eu{sup 3+} ions and PMMA molecules were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential thermal analysis. The photoluminescence (PL) properties of the as-electrospun PMMA/Eu{sup 3+} ions composites were studied in comparison to those of the Eu(NO{sub 3}){sub 3} powder. It was showed that the {sup 5}D{sub 0}-{sup 7}F{sub J} (J = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4) emission appeared in the PL spectra of the as-electrospun PMMA/Eu{sup 3+} ions composites, whereas the {sup 5}D{sub 0}-{sup 7}F{sub 0} emission was completely absent in the PL spectra of Eu(NO{sub 3}){sub 3} powder due to the different local environments surrounding Eu{sup 3+} ions. It was interesting to note that the intensity ratios of the electric-dipole and magnetic-dipole transitions for the PMMA/Eu{sup 3+} ions composites could be enhanced significantly by increasing electrospinning voltage.
An Adaptable Device for Scalable Electrospinning of Low- and High-Viscosity Solutions
This paper summarizes the design and construction of an adaptable electrospinner capable of spinning fluids over a large range of viscosities. The design accommodates needless electrospinning technologies and enables researchers to explore a large range of testing parameters. Modular parts can be exchanged for alternative versions that adapt to the research question at hand. A rotating drum electrode immersed halfway into a solution bath provides the liquid film surface from which electrospinning occurs. We tested and assessed several electrode designs and their electrospinning performance at higher (<500 poise) viscosities. Relative humidity was found to affect the onset of electrospinning of highly viscous solutions. We demonstrate robust device performance at applied voltage up to 90 kV between the electrospinning electrode and the collector. Design and fabrication aspects are discussed in practical terms, with the intent of making this device reproducible in an academic student machine shop.
Electrospinning of ultra-high molecular weight polymers into aligned nanofibers and their application in chemical separations
Ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW, >10 6 g mol −1 ) vinyl polymers are increasingly accessible through photoiniferter polymerization, yet their behavior in electrospinning has received comparatively little attention. Here, we explore the electrospinning of UHMW poly(methyl acrylate), poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(N,N-dimethylacrylamide), and poly(styrene-co-pentafluorostyrene) synthesized by photoiniferter polymerization, with number-average molecular weights (M n ) greater than 1000 kDa and dispersities below 1.4. UHMW polymers form stable Taylor cones and discrete fibers at solution concentrations as low as 0.5 wt% due to their large number of entanglements, a threshold unachievable with low molecular weight (M n = 20–54 kDa) polymers of the same chemistry. Using poly(methyl methacrylate) and poly(styrene-co-pentafluorostyrene) as model systems, we demonstrate that fiber diameter can be tuned from 350 nm to 20 μm through systematic variation of polymer concentration (0.01 to 4 wt%) and flow rate (0.5 to 10 mL h −1 ). Additionally, we find that collector rotation rate governs fiber alignment, with highly aligned mats obtained with drum rotation speeds of 1000 RPM. Reversing the polarity of the electric field during electrospinning reorients the surface chemistry of these fiber mats without altering their microscale morphology, shifting the water contact angle by 7° (89° to 96°) and providing a two-fold binding capacity enhancement in cationic dye uptake. These results show that the high entanglement densities of UHMW vinyl polymers shift the accessible electrospinning window to dilute solutions and that electric-field polarity is a useful lever to control the surface chemistry in the resulting fibers.
Morphological effects on the electrochemical performance of lithium-rich layered oxide cathodes, prepared by electrospinning technique, for lithium-ion battery applications
Li-rich Li{sub 1.2}Ni{sub 0.17}Co{sub 0.17}Mn{sub 0.5}O{sub 2} cathode materials were synthesized by electrospinning technique with different polymers, and their structural, morphological, and electrochemical performances were investigated. It was found that the electrospinning process leads to the formation of a fiber and flower-like morphology, by using different polymers and heat treatment conditions. The nanostructured morphology provided these materials with high initial discharge capacity. The cycling stability was improved with agglomerated nano-particles, as compared with porous materials. - Highlights: • Fiber and flower-like Li-rich cathode was synthesized by simple electrospinning. • Polymer dependent morphology and electrochemical performance was investigated. • Well-organized porous structure facilitates the diffusion of lithium ions. • Technique could be applicable to other cathode materials as well.
Electrospinning of nickel oxide nanofibers: Process parameters and morphology control
In the present work, nickel oxide nanofibers with varying morphology (diameter and roughness) were fabricated via electrospinning technique using a precursor composed of nickel acetate and polyvinyl alcohol. It was found that the diameter and surface roughness of individual nickel oxide nanofibers are strongly dependent upon nickel acetate concentration in the precursor. With increasing nickel acetate concentration, the diameter of nanofibers increased and the roughness decreased. An optimum concentration of nickel acetate in the precursor resulted in the formation of smooth and continuous nickel oxide nanofibers whose diameter can be further controlled via electrospinning voltage. Beyond an optimum concentration of nickel acetate, the resulting nanofibers were found to be ‘flattened’ and ‘wavy’ with occasional cracking across their length. Transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that the obtained nanofibers are polycrystalline in nature. These nickel oxide nanofibers with varying morphology have potential applications in various engineering domains. - Highlights: • Nickel oxide nanofibers were synthesized via electrospinning. • Fiber diameter and roughness depend on nickel acetate concentration used. • With increasing nickel acetate concentration the roughness of nanofibers decreased. • XRD and TEM revealed a polycrystalline structure of the nanofibers.
Anodic electrochemical performances of MgCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} synthesized by oxalate decomposition method and electrospinning technique for Li-ion battery application
Highlights: • MgCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} was prepared by oxalate decomposition method and electrospinning technique. • Electrospun MgCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} shows the reversible capacity of 795 and 227 mAh g{sup −1} oxalate decomposition MgCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} after 50 cycle. • Electrospun MgCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} show good cycling stability and electrochemical performance. - Abstract: Magnesium cobalt oxide, MgCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} was synthesized by oxalate decomposition method and electrospinning technique. The electrochemical performances, structures, phase formation and morphology of MgCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} synthesized by both the methods are compared. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies show spherical and fiber type morphology, respectively for the oxalate decomposition and electrospinning method. The electrospun nanofibers of MgCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} calcined at 650 °C, showed a very good reversible capacity of 795 mAh g{sup −1} after 50 cycles when compared to bulk material capacity of 227 mAh g{sup −1} at current rate of 60 mA g{sup −1}. MgCo{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanofiber showed a reversible capacity of 411 mAh g{sup −1} (at cycle) at current density of 240 mA g{sup −1}. Improved performance was due to improved conductivity of MgO, which may act as buffer layer leading to improved cycling stability. The cyclic voltammetry studies at scan rate of 0.058 mV/s show main cathodic at around 1.0 V and anodic peaks at 2.1 V vs. Li.
High rate lithium-sulfur batteries enabled by mesoporous TiO{sub 2} nanotubes prepared by electrospinning
Graphical abstract: Mesoporous titanium dioxide nanotubes (MTDNTs) used as host for sulfur was prepared by electrospinning technique and subsequent thermal treatment. The nanotube walls of MTDNTs act as a host for sulfur and the hollow structure is favorable for the fast transmission of Li{sup +} ions. After sulfur was encapsulated into the pores of nanotube walls of MTDNTs, the MTDNTs/S composite electrode displays a relatively good cycling performance and especially excellent rate performance (about 610 mAh g-1 at 8 C). - Highlights: • Mesoporous titanium dioxide nanotubes (MTDNTs) were fabricated by electrospinning and subsequent thermal treatment. • MTDNTs was used as host for sulfur, TEM and SEM analysis showed that sulfur distributed in the meso pores of MTDNTs walls. • MTDNTs/S composite cathode delivers a reversible discharge capacity of 610 mAh g{sup −1} at a high current rate of 8 C. - Abstract: Mesoporous titanium dioxide nanotubes (MTDNTs) were prepared by electrospinning and subsequent thermal treatment. The as-synthesized MTDNTs possess anatase mischcrystal structure, hollow texture morphology, and a relatively high specific surface area of 93.6 m{sup 2} g{sup −1} with a pore volume of 0.2190 cm{sup −3} g{sup −1}. The nanotube walls of MTDNTs act as a host for sulfur and the hollow structure is favorable for the fast transmission of Li{sup +} ions. After sulfur was encapsulated into the pores of nanotube walls of MTDNTs, the MTDNTs/S composite electrode displays a relatively good cycling performance and especially excellent rate performance (about 610 mAh g{sup −1} at 8 C). The retention capacity can be up to 74.2% when the discharge rate increases from 0.5C to 8.0 C.
Bacteriophage nanofiber fabrication using near field electrospinning
M13 bacteriophage (phage) nano- and microfibers were fabricated using electrospinning. Using liquid crystalline suspension of the phage, we successfully fabricated nano- and microscale pure phage fibers. Through a near field electrospinning process, we fabricated the desired phage fiber pattern with tunable direction and spacing. In addition, we demonstrated that the resulting phage fibers could be utilized as an electrostatic-stimulus responsive actuator. The near field electrospinning would be a very useful tool to design phage-based chemical sensors, tissue regenerative materials, energy generators, metallic and semiconductor nanowires in the future.
Fabrication of micro-hollow fiber by electrospinning process in near-critical carbon dioxide
Electrospinning is a simple technique that has gained much attention because of its capability and feasibility in the fabrication of large quantities of fibers from polymer with diameters ranging in nano-microscale. These fibers provided high surface area to volume ratios, and it was of considerable interest for many applications, such as nanoparticle carriers in controlled release, scaffolds in tissue engineering, wound dressings, military wear with chemical and biological toxin-resistance, nanofibrous membranes or filters, and electronic sensors. Recently there has been a great deal of progress in the potential applications of hollow fibers in microfluids, photonics, and energy storage. In this work, electrospinning was conducted under high-pressure carbon dioxide (CO{sub 2}) to reduce the viscosity of polymer solution. The experiments were conducted at 313 K and ∼8.0 MPa. Polymer solution containing 5 wt% polymers which prepared in dichloromethane (DCM) with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) ratio 80:20 was used as a feed solution. The applied voltage was 15 kV and the distance of nozzle and collector was 8 cm. The morphology and structure of the fibers produced were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Under pressurized CO{sub 2}, PVP electrospun was produced without bead formation with diameter ranges of 608.50 - 7943.19 nm. These behaviors hold the potential to considerably improve devolatilization electrospinning processes.
Fabrication of AlN/BN bishell hollow nanofibers by electrospinning and atomic layer deposition
Aluminum nitride (AlN)/boron nitride (BN) bishell hollow nanofibers (HNFs) have been fabricated by successive atomic layer deposition (ALD) of AlN and sequential chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of BN on electrospun polymeric nanofibrous template. A four-step fabrication process was utilized: (i) fabrication of polymeric (nylon 6,6) nanofibers via electrospinning, (ii) hollow cathode plasma-assisted ALD of AlN at 100 °C onto electrospun polymeric nanofibers, (iii) calcination at 500 °C for 2 h in order to remove the polymeric template, and (iv) sequential CVD growth of BN at 450 °C. AlN/BN HNFs have been characterized for their chemical composition, surface morphology, crystal structure, and internal nanostructure using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and selected area electron diffraction. Measurements confirmed the presence of crystalline hexagonal BN and AlN within the three dimensional (3D) network of bishell HNFs with relatively low impurity content. In contrast to the smooth surface of the inner AlN layer, outer BN coating showed a highly rough 3D morphology in the form of BN nano-needle crystallites. It is shown that the combination of electrospinning and plasma-assisted low-temperature ALD/CVD can produce highly controlled multi-layered bishell nitride ceramic hollow nanostructures. While electrospinning enables easy fabrication of nanofibrous template, self-limiting reactions of plasma-assisted ALD and sequential CVD provide control over the wall thicknesses of AlN and BN layers with sub-nanometer accuracy.
Electrospraying and Electrospinning of Polymers for Biomedical Applications. Poly(Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid) and Poly(Ethylene-Co-Vinylacetate)
Significant opportunities exist for the processing of polymers (homopolymers and blends) using electric fields. Specific attention is given here to electrospinning, but we note that electroaerosol formation and field-modulated film casting represent additional processing options. Of particular interest is the ability to generate polymer fibers of sub-micron dimensions using electrospinning, down to about 0.05 microns (50 nm), a size range that has been traditionally difficult to access. In our work, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), PLA/PGA, poly(lactic acid) PLA, and poly(ethylene-co-vinylacetate) (PEVA) have been deposited from solutions in methylene chloride or chloroform by electrospraying or electrospinning to afford morphologically tailored materials for tissue engineering and related applications. Low solution concentrations tend to favor electrostatic spraying ('electro-aerosolization') while higher concentrations lead to spinning on fibrous mats. Preliminary observations of muscle cell growth on PLA electrospun mats are reported.
Electric Field Effects on Fiber Alignment Using an Auxiliary Electrode during Electrospinning
This viewgraph presentation reviews auxiliary and electric field effects on fiber alignment during the process of electrospinning. The contents include: 1) Electrospinning Overview; 2) Experimental Set-up; 3) Jet Exit; 4) Auxiliary Electrode Effects; 5) Electrospinning High Speed Video; 6) Effect of Auxiliary Electrode Position; 7) Micro & Nano Fibers Produced; 8) Micro and Nano Fibrous Mats; 9) Field Effect on Fiber Distribution; 10) Modeling; 11) Calculated trajectories: 5, 10, 15 & 20cm electrode spacing; 12) Off Axis Auxiliary Electrode; 13) Field Strength Effects; and 14) Potential Applications.
“Practical” Electrospinning of Biopolymers in Ionic Liquids
To address the need to scale up technologies for electrospinning of biopolymers from ionic liquids to practical volumes, a setup for the multi-needle electrospinning of chitin using the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate, [C 2 mim]-[OAc], was designed, built, and demonstrated in this paper. Finally, materials with controllable and high surface area were prepared at the nanoscale using ionic-liquid solutions of high-molecular-weight chitin extracted with the same ionic liquid directly from shrimp shells.
Application of electrospinning for the fabrication of proton-exchange membrane fuel cell electrodes
We report electrospun materials have been gaining great interest in the energy sector. Their tunability and robustness make them highly attractive, particularly for proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) electrodes. Conventional PEMFC electrodes, prepared by either spraying, painting, or slot-die coating, have not yet met the needs of large-scale PEMFC use. Electrospinning of fibrous materials has already shown great promise as an alternative methodology for electrode fabrication. Electrospinning has been used in fuel cell electrodes through two primary means: (1) segmented carbon or inorganic fibers to serve as precious metal catalyst support, and (2) high aspect ratio polymer/particle fibers to serve directly as the electrode. The use of electrospun fibrous electrodes has led to improved PEMFC durability and increased power output at low catalyst loadings, both of which are of paramount importance to large-scale commercialization of PEMFC electric vehicles.