Simulation and experimental study of parameters in multiple-nozzle electrospinning: Effects of nozzle arrangement on jet paths and fiber formation
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-2021
Abstract
The electrospinning process is a simple and versatile method for the fabrication of nanofibers. The low production rate of fibers in a conventional single-nozzle setup inhibits the commercialization of the process for large-scale applications. Multiple-nozzle electrospinning is a straightforward approach in the efforts of increasing fiber yield. The installation of multiple nozzles in a single setup alters the electric field in the working space, affecting the process and fiber quality. In this study, the effects of varying the distance between adjacent nozzles are investigated in terms of the jet behavior and fiber distribution, comparing between equally-spaced and unequally-spaced nozzles. The simulation of the electric field shows a more uniform electric field distribution near the nozzle tips for the unequally-spaced nozzles. The unequally-spaced setup also resulted in a more uniform distribution of fiber diameter and deposited fiber mats. Additionally, electrospinnability was also improved by using unequally-spaced nozzles.
Keywords
Electrospinning, Multijet electrospinning, Polymer nanofiber, Nano fabrication, Electric field simulation
Divisions
sch_ecs,mechanical
Funders
Ministry of Education, Malaysia (FP058-2015A)
Publication Title
Journal of Manufacturing Processes
Volume
62
Publisher
Elsevier
Publisher Location
THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, OXON, ENGLAND