Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
6.6
5.0
Journals
Polymers
Special Issues
Electrospinning of Nanofibres
share announcement

Electrospinning of Nanofibres

A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2018) | Viewed by 77480

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Khayet

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Structure of Matter, Thermal Physics and Electronics Faculty of Physics, University Complutense of Madrid Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: membrane science and technology (membrane preparation; nanofibrous membranes; hollow fiber membranes; nanocomposite and mixed matrix membranes; membrane modification; membrane characterization; membrane processes)
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Carmen García-Payo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Structure of Matter, Thermal Physics and Electronics, Faculty of Physics, University Complutense of Madrid, Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: nanofibrous membranes; thin film composite membrane; wastewater; desalination; brine solutions; membrane distillation; forward osmosis; microfiltration; nanofiltration
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We have been asked by the Editor of Polymers (MDPI) to coordinate a Special Issue entitled “Electrospinning of Nanofibres”.

This Special Issue is motived by the observed growing interests on the design, fabrication and application of electrospun nanofibres in many fields such as wound dressings, filtration applications, water treatment, energy production, fibrous photovoltaic technologies, bone tissue engineering, catalyst supports, non-woven fabrics, reinforced fibers, support for enzymes, drug delivery systems, electronic applications and disposable sensors, among others.

In general, this Special Issue is oriented to all types of electrospun nanofibres, innovations in materials, improvements in electrospinning technology and process control to allow consistent production of nanofiber mats, advanced multiple functionalities (physical, chemical, and biological functionalities) to make multipurpose fibre mats, superhydrophobic surfaces, smart materials and active devices, as well as new cross-disciplinary applications for electrospun materials.

Considering your prominent contribution in this interesting research field, I would like to cordially invite you to submit a paper to this special issue through the webpage of the journal (S.I. Electrospinning of nanofibres). The manuscript should be submitted online before 31 March, 2018. The submitted manuscripts will then be fast track reviewed. I would very much appreciate it if you could let me know of your interest in the paper contribution at your earliest convenience. Research articles, review articles, perspectives, as well as communications and letters are also invited.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere. All manuscripts are refereed through a peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts are available on the journal’s website.

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Khayet
Prof. Dr. Carmen  García-Payo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Polymers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Electrospinning
  • Nanofiber
  • Nanoadditive
  • Mat
  • Non-woven
  • Modified nanofiber
  • Polymer
  • Nanocomposite
  • Porous nanofiber
  • Core-shell nanofiber
  • Nanofiber characterization techniques
  • Nanofiber modification
  • Functionalized nanofiber
  • Smart nanofiber mat
  • Reinforced nanofiber

Published Papers (15 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

13 pages, 6335 KiB  
Article
Improve the Performance of Mechanoelectrical Transduction of Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites Based on Ordered Nafion Nanofibres by Electrospinning
by Yang Zhao, Jiazheng Sheng, Di Xu, Minzhong Gao, Qinglong Meng, Dezhi Wu, Lingyun Wang, Wenlong Lv, Qinnan Chen, Jingjing Xiao and Daoheng Sun
Polymers 2018, 10(7), 803; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10070803 - 21 Jul 2018
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4174
Abstract
An ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC) is a kind of soft material. The applications of IPMC in actuators, environmental sensing, and energy harvesting are currently increasing rapidly. In this study, an ordered Nafion nanofibre mat prepared by electrospinning was used to investigate the characteristics [...] Read more.
An ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC) is a kind of soft material. The applications of IPMC in actuators, environmental sensing, and energy harvesting are currently increasing rapidly. In this study, an ordered Nafion nanofibre mat prepared by electrospinning was used to investigate the characteristics of the mechanoelectrical transduction of IPMC. The morphologies of the Nafion nanofibre mat were characterized. The proton conductivity, ion exchange capacities, and water uptake potential of the Nafion nanofibre mat were compared to traditional IPMC, respectively. A novel mechanism of Nafion nanofibre IPMC was designed and the open circuit voltage and short circuit current were measured. The maximum voltage value reached 100 mv. The output power was 3.63 nw and the power density was up to 42.4 μW/Kg under the load resistance. The Nafion nanofibre mat demonstrates excellent mechanoelectrcical transduction behavior compared to traditional IPMC and could be used for the development of self-powered devices in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 16652 KiB  
Article
White-Light Emission of Dye-Doped Polymer Submicronic Fibers Produced by Electrospinning
by Monica Enculescu, Alexandru Evanghelidis and Ionut Enculescu
Polymers 2018, 10(7), 737; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10070737 - 04 Jul 2018
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5399
Abstract
Lighting and display technologies are evolving at tremendous rates nowadays; new device architectures based on new, microscopic building blocks are being developed. Besides high light-emission efficiencies, qualities including low cost, low environmental impact, flexibility, or lightweightness are sought for developing new types of [...] Read more.
Lighting and display technologies are evolving at tremendous rates nowadays; new device architectures based on new, microscopic building blocks are being developed. Besides high light-emission efficiencies, qualities including low cost, low environmental impact, flexibility, or lightweightness are sought for developing new types of devices. Electrospun polymer fibers represent an interesting type of such microscopic structures that can be employed in developing new functionalities. White-light-emitting fiber mats were prepared by the electrospinning of different dye-doped polymer solutions. Two approaches were used in order to obtain white-light emissions: the overlapping of single-dye-doped electrospun fiber mats, and the electrospinning of mixtures of different ratios of single-dye-doped polymer solutions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate the morphologies of the electrospun fibers with diameters ranging between 300 nm and 1 µm. Optical absorption and photoluminescence (PL) were evaluated for single-dye-doped submicronic fiber mats, for overlapping mats, and for fiber mats obtained from different compositions of mixtures. Depending on the ratios of the mixtures of different dyes, the luminance was balanced between blue and red emissions. Commission Internationale de L’Eclairage (CIE) measurements depict this fine-tuning of the colors’ intensities, and the right composition for white-light emission of the submicronic fiber mats was found. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

10 pages, 2496 KiB  
Article
Near-Field Electrospun Piezoelectric Fibers as Sound-Sensing Elements
by Tien Hsi Lee, Chun Yu Chen, Chen Yu Tsai and Yiin Kuen Fuh
Polymers 2018, 10(7), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10070692 - 21 Jun 2018
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 4006
Abstract
A novel integration of three-dimensional (3D) architectures of near-field electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nano-micro fibers (NMFs) is applied to an intelligent self-powered sound-sensing element (ISSE). Using 3D architecture with greatly enhanced piezoelectric output, the sound wave energy can be harvested under a sound [...] Read more.
A novel integration of three-dimensional (3D) architectures of near-field electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nano-micro fibers (NMFs) is applied to an intelligent self-powered sound-sensing element (ISSE). Using 3D architecture with greatly enhanced piezoelectric output, the sound wave energy can be harvested under a sound pressure of 120+ dB SPL of electrical signal about 0.25 V. Furthermore, the simple throat vibrations such as hum, cough and swallow with different intensity or frequency can be distinguishably detected. Finally, the developed ultrathin ISSE of near-field electrospun piezoelectric fibers has the advantage of direct—write fabrication on highly flexible substrates and low cost. The proposed technique demonstrates the advancement of existing electrospinning technologies in new practical applications of sensing purposes such as voice control, wearable electronics, implantable human wireless technology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

23 pages, 7699 KiB  
Article
The Coordination and Luminescence of the Eu(III) Complexes with the Polymers (PMMA, PVP)
by Weican Zhao, Haifeng Shao, Guang Yu, Yanjun Hou and Shuhong Wang
Polymers 2018, 10(5), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10050508 - 07 May 2018
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4673
Abstract
The rare earth complexes and the polymers can be made into composite nanofibers through electrospinning. The fluorescence intensity of these fiber composites is much higher than that of the rare earth complexes. By changing the mixed proportion of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and complexes, [...] Read more.
The rare earth complexes and the polymers can be made into composite nanofibers through electrospinning. The fluorescence intensity of these fiber composites is much higher than that of the rare earth complexes. By changing the mixed proportion of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and complexes, nanofiber materials were prepared. Then, by measuring their fluorescence intensity, it is found that the carbonyl bond of PMMA may have coordinated with the rare earth ions and enhanced the luminescence intensity of them. Then, a series of experiments were designed to study their coordination and luminescence mechanism. The coordination mechanism of the polymers with carbonyl groups and the rare earth complexes was explained by Eu(TFT)3(TPPO), Eu(TFT)3(TPPO)2, Eu(PFP)3(TPPO), Eu(PFP)3(TPPO)2, and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) dissolved in chloroform solution, where TFT means 2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)-1-tetralone, PFP means 2-(2,2,3,3,3-Pentafluoropro-panoyl)-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one and TPPO means phosphine oxide. The coordination of PVP and the rare earth complexes in solution was studied, and it was found that the fluorine atoms of the ligand had a significant impact on the aggregation-induced effect of the composites. The electron transitioned in the polymers and the complexes were enhanced greatly by the coordination. The colors of emission light could be adjusted by the coordination of the polymers and the rare earth complexes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 5694 KiB  
Article
Preparation of PLGA/MWCNT Composite Nanofibers by Airflow Bubble-Spinning and Their Characterization
by Yue Fang, Fujuan Liu, Lan Xu, Ping Wang and Jihuan He
Polymers 2018, 10(5), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10050481 - 28 Apr 2018
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4041
Abstract
Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composite nanofibers have been successfully fabricated via airflow bubble-spinning. In this work, a systematic study of the effects of solution concentration, relative humidity (RH), and composition on the morphology of PLGA nanofibers is reported. By [...] Read more.
Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composite nanofibers have been successfully fabricated via airflow bubble-spinning. In this work, a systematic study of the effects of solution concentration, relative humidity (RH), and composition on the morphology of PLGA nanofibers is reported. By comparing the distribution of fiber diameter, we found that the spinning effect was the best when the temperature was kept at 25 °C, the collecting distance 18 cm, the concentration 8 wt %, and the relative humidity 65%. MWCNTs used as added nanoparticles were incorporated into the PLGA nanofibers. The volatile solvents were used to achieve the purpose of producing nanoporous fibers. Besides, the rheological properties of solutions were studied and the PLGA or PLGA/MWCNT composite nanofibers with a nanoporous structure were also completely characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM), a thermogravimetric analyzer(TGA), X-ray diffraction(XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. In addition, we compared the mechanical properties of the fibers. It was found that the addition of MWCNTs significantly enhanced the tensile strength and elasticity of composite nanofibers without compromising the nanoporous morphology. The results showed that the breaking strength of the composite fiber bundle was three times as strong as the pure one, and the elongation at the break was twice as great. This work provided a novel technique successfully not only to get rid of the potential safety hazards caused by unexpected static but also prepare oriented nanoporous fibers, which would demonstrate an impressive prospect for the fields of adsorption and filtration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 2388 KiB  
Article
Modifying an Active Compound’s Release Kinetic Using a Supercritical Impregnation Process to Incorporate an Active Agent into PLA Electrospun Mats
by Carol López de Dicastillo, Carolina Villegas, Luan Garrido, Karina Roa, Alejandra Torres, María José Galotto, Adrián Rojas and Julio Romero
Polymers 2018, 10(5), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10050479 - 27 Apr 2018
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4335
Abstract
The main objective of this work was to study the release of cinnamaldehyde (CIN) from electrospun poly lactic acid (e-PLA) mats obtained through two techniques: (i) direct incorporation of active compound during the electrospinning process (e-PLA-CIN); and (ii) supercritical [...] Read more.
The main objective of this work was to study the release of cinnamaldehyde (CIN) from electrospun poly lactic acid (e-PLA) mats obtained through two techniques: (i) direct incorporation of active compound during the electrospinning process (e-PLA-CIN); and (ii) supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) impregnation of CIN within electrospun PLA mats (e-PLA/CINimp). The development and characterization of both of these active electrospun mats were investigated with the main purpose of modifying the release kinetic of this active compound. Morphological, structural, and thermal properties of these materials were also studied, and control mats e-PLA and e- PLA CO 2 were developed in order to understand the effect of electrospinning and scCO2 impregnation, respectively, on PLA properties. Both strategies of incorporation of this active compound into PLA matrix resulted in different morphologies that influenced chemical and physical properties of these composites and in different release kinetics of CIN. The electrospinning and scCO2 impregnation processes and the presence of CIN altered PLA thermal and structural properties when compared to an extruded PLA material. The incorporation of CIN through scCO2 impregnation resulted in higher release rate and lower diffusion coefficients when compared to active electrospun mats with CIN incorporated during the electrospinning process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 3596 KiB  
Article
Reinforced PEI/PVdF Multicore-Shell Structure Composite Membranes by Phase Prediction on a Ternary Solution
by Jihye Chae, Sejoon Park, Dong Young Kim, Han-Ik Joh, Jong Man Kim, Sungho Lee and Seong Mu Jo
Polymers 2018, 10(4), 436; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10040436 - 13 Apr 2018
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5134
Abstract
To construct a polyetherimide (PEI)-reinforced polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF) composite membrane with multicore-shell structure, a ternary solution was prepared and electrospun by single-nozzle electrospinning. A theoretical prediction was made for the feasibility of complete distinction of two phases. The diameters of the membrane fibers [...] Read more.
To construct a polyetherimide (PEI)-reinforced polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF) composite membrane with multicore-shell structure, a ternary solution was prepared and electrospun by single-nozzle electrospinning. A theoretical prediction was made for the feasibility of complete distinction of two phases. The diameters of the membrane fibers and the PEI multi-core fibrils varied with the PEI ratio and the spinning time, respectively. The tensile strength and modulus were improved to 48 MPa and 1.5 GPa, respectively. The shrinkage of the membrane was only 6.6% at 180 °C, at which temperature the commercial PE separator melted down. The reinforcement in mechanical and thermal properties is associated with multiple PEI nanofibrils oriented along the fiber axis. Indeed, the unique morphology of self-assembled multicore-shell fibers plays an important role in their properties. All in all, PEI/PVdF membranes are appropriate for a lithium-ion battery application due to their high mechanical strength, excellent thermal stability, and controllable textural properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 9651 KiB  
Article
Novel Processing Technique to Produce Three Dimensional Polyvinyl Alcohol/Maghemite Nanofiber Scaffold Suitable for Hard Tissues
by Nor Hasrul Akhmal Ngadiman, Noordin Mohd Yusof, Ani Idris, Ehsan Fallahiarezoudar and Denni Kurniawan
Polymers 2018, 10(4), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10040353 - 22 Mar 2018
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4863
Abstract
Fabrication of three dimensional (3D) tissue engineering scaffolds, particularly for hard tissues remains a challenge. Electrospinning has been used to fabricate scaffolds made from polymeric materials which are suitable for hard tissues. The electrospun scaffolds also have structural arrangement that mimics the natural [...] Read more.
Fabrication of three dimensional (3D) tissue engineering scaffolds, particularly for hard tissues remains a challenge. Electrospinning has been used to fabricate scaffolds made from polymeric materials which are suitable for hard tissues. The electrospun scaffolds also have structural arrangement that mimics the natural extracellular matrix. However, electrospinning has a limitation in terms of scaffold layer thickness that it can fabricate. Combining electrospinning with other processes is the way forward, and in this proposed technique, the basic shape of the scaffold is obtained by a fused deposition modelling (FDM) three dimensional (3D) printing machine using the partially hydrolysed polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the filament material. The 3D printed PVA becomes a template to be placed inside a mould which is then filled with the fully hydrolysed PVA/maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) solution. After the content in the mould solidified, the mould is opened and the content is freeze dried and immersed in water to dissolve the template. The 3D structure made of PVA/maghemite is then layered by electrospun PVA/maghemite fibers, resulting in 3D tissue engineering scaffold made from PVA/maghemite. The morphology and mechanical properties (strength and stiffness) were analysed and in vitro tests by degradation test and cell penetration were also performed. It was revealed that internally, the 3D scaffold has milli- and microporous structures whilst externally; it has a nanoporous structure as a result of the electrospun layer. The 3D scaffold has a compressive strength of 78.7 ± 0.6 MPa and a Young’s modulus of 1.43 ± 0.82 GPa, which are within the expected range for hard tissue engineering scaffolds. Initial biocompatibility tests on cell penetration revealed that the scaffold can support growth of human fibroblast cells. Overall, the proposed processing technique which combines 3D printing process, thermal inversion phase separation (TIPS) method and electrospinning process has the potential for producing hard tissue engineering 3D scaffolds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 9719 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Characterization of Porous Core-Shell Fibers for Slow Release of Tea Polyphenols
by Yaru Wang and Lan Xu
Polymers 2018, 10(2), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10020144 - 02 Feb 2018
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 6106
Abstract
This study focused on the fabrication, characterization, and release properties of electrospun tea polyphenol (TPP) loaded porous core-shell structured fibers. The morphology, structure and properties of the electrospun TPP loaded porous core-shell fibers were investigated by a combination of Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy [...] Read more.
This study focused on the fabrication, characterization, and release properties of electrospun tea polyphenol (TPP) loaded porous core-shell structured fibers. The morphology, structure and properties of the electrospun TPP loaded porous core-shell fibers were investigated by a combination of Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact angle (CA) measurements, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), etc. In addition, the cumulative drug release rate of TPP loaded porous core-shell fibers was determined by ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometer, and the release mechanism was investigated using Fickian diffusion equation, which would provide the theoretical basis for future study. The results showed TPP loaded porous core-shell structured fibers were successfully prepared by coaxial electrospinning, and the porous structure of the core-shell fibers could further enlarge the specific surface area, enhance the hydrophobic properties, and improve the drug release properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

5749 KiB  
Article
Investigation of Conical Spinneret in Generating More Dense and Compact Electrospun Nanofibers
by Aya Hamed, Nader Shehata and Mohammad Elosairy
Polymers 2018, 10(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym10010012 - 22 Dec 2017
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4100
Abstract
Electrospinning is an important, widely used process to generate nanofibers. However, there is still an open window for different designs of both spinneret and collector electrodes to be investigated. This paper introduces the impact of new design of conical spinneret electrode on the [...] Read more.
Electrospinning is an important, widely used process to generate nanofibers. However, there is still an open window for different designs of both spinneret and collector electrodes to be investigated. This paper introduces the impact of new design of conical spinneret electrode on the generated electrospun nanofibers. In this work, the conical feeder is used to generate electrospun Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers, and being compared to the traditional needle feeder at the same processing conditions. The jet’s mechanism is simulated using discrete bead model along with estimated calculations of both deposition area and fiber radius. The electric field distribution that is around the charged cone is analyzed. Based on both theoretical modeling and experimental measurements, a comparison of mean diameter, deposited area, and the thickness of generated nanofibers is presented related to both conical and needle electrodes. Conical feeder shows clearly compact nanofibers mat in terms of deposition area (spherical deposition of diameter ~6 cm) up to half-area of needle deposited nanofibers with high fiber density for the same time of the process. Moreover, the conical electrode is found to have privilege in terms of productivity rate and operation time. This study can be useful in generating localized nanofibers within different applications, such as biomedical tissue scaffolds, textile, and sensors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

8044 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Plasma Treated PLGA/MWCNTs-COOH Composite Nanofibers on Nerve Cell Behavior
by Jing Wang, Nuan Chen, Seeram Ramakrishna, Lingling Tian and Xiumei Mo
Polymers 2017, 9(12), 713; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym9120713 - 14 Dec 2017
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5263
Abstract
Electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds which can mimic the architecture of the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) are potential candidates for peripheral nerve repair application. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are used in peripheral nerve repair due to their ability to promote neurite extension and support neural [...] Read more.
Electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds which can mimic the architecture of the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) are potential candidates for peripheral nerve repair application. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are used in peripheral nerve repair due to their ability to promote neurite extension and support neural network formation. In this study, surface-modified nanofibrous scaffolds composed of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and various ratios of carboxyl-modified MWCNTs (MWCNTs-COOH) (PC0, PC2, PC4 and PC8) were fabricated by electrospinning. The effects of MWCNTs-COOH on the fibers’ morphology, diameter distribution, mechanical properties and surface hydrophilicity were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), ImageJ software, tensile testing and water contact angle. Furthermore, air plasma treatment was applied to improve the surface hydrophilicity of the scaffolds, and the optimal treatment condition was determined in terms of surface morphology, water contact angle and PC12 cell adhesion. Plasma treated nanofibers (p-PC0, p-PC2, p-PC4 and p-PC8) under optimal treatment conditions were used for further study. PC12 cell proliferation and differentiation were both improved by the addition of MWCNTs-COOH in scaffolds. Additionally, the proliferation and maturation of Schwann cells were enhanced on scaffolds containing MWCNTs-COOH. The neurite outgrowth of rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons was promoted on MWCNTs-COOH-containing scaffolds, and those cultured on p-PC8 scaffolds showed elongated neurites with a length up to 78.27 μm after 3 days culture. Our results suggested that plasma treated nanofibers under appropriate conditions were able to improve cell attachment. They also demonstrated that plasma treated scaffolds containing MWCNTs-COOH, especially the p-PC8 nanofibrous scaffold could support the proliferation, differentiation, maturation and neurite extension of PC12 cells, Schwann cells and DRG neurons. Therefore, p-PC8 could be a potential candidate for peripheral nerve regeneration application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

6540 KiB  
Article
Preparation of Fouling-Resistant Nanofibrous Composite Membranes for Separation of Oily Wastewater
by Fatma Yalcinkaya, Anna Siekierka and Marek Bryjak
Polymers 2017, 9(12), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym9120679 - 06 Dec 2017
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 5912
Abstract
A facile and low-cost method has been developed for separation of oily wastewater. Polyvinylidene fluoride/polyacrylonitrile (PVDF/PAN) nanofibers laminated on a supporting layer were tested. In order to create highly permeable and fouling-resistant membranes, surface modifications of both fibers were conducted. The results of [...] Read more.
A facile and low-cost method has been developed for separation of oily wastewater. Polyvinylidene fluoride/polyacrylonitrile (PVDF/PAN) nanofibers laminated on a supporting layer were tested. In order to create highly permeable and fouling-resistant membranes, surface modifications of both fibers were conducted. The results of oily wastewater separation showed that, after low vacuum microwave plasma treatment with Argon (Ar) and chemical modification with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), the membranes had excellent hydrophilicity, due to the formation of active carboxylic groups. However, the membrane performance failed during the cleaning procedures. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) was grafted onto the surface of membranes to give them highly permeable and fouling-resistance properties. The results of the self-cleaning experiment indicated that grafting of TiO2 on the surface of the membranes after their pre-treatment with Ar plasma and NaOH increased the permeability and the anti-fouling properties. A new surface modification method using a combination of plasma and chemical treatment was introduced. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

7648 KiB  
Article
High Throughput Preparation of Aligned Nanofibers Using an Improved Bubble-Electrospinning
by Liang Yu, Zhongbiao Shao, Lan Xu and Mingdi Wang
Polymers 2017, 9(12), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym9120658 - 29 Nov 2017
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 4855
Abstract
An improved bubble-electrospinning, consisting of a cone shaped air nozzle, a copper solution reservoir connected directly to the power generator, and a high speed rotating copper wire drum as a collector, was presented successfully to obtain high throughput preparation of aligned nanofibers. The [...] Read more.
An improved bubble-electrospinning, consisting of a cone shaped air nozzle, a copper solution reservoir connected directly to the power generator, and a high speed rotating copper wire drum as a collector, was presented successfully to obtain high throughput preparation of aligned nanofibers. The influences of drum rotation speed on morphology and properties of obtained nanofibers were explored and researched. The results showed that the alignment degree, diameter distribution, and properties of nanofibers were improved with the increase of the drum rotation speed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

6245 KiB  
Article
3D Biofabrication of Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)/Poly-l-lactic Acid (PLLA) Electrospun Nanofibers Containing Maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) for Tissue Engineering Aortic Heart Valve
by Ehsan Fallahiarezoudar, Mohaddeseh Ahmadipourroudposht, Noordin Mohd Yusof, Ani Idris and Nor Hasrul Akhmal Ngadiman
Polymers 2017, 9(11), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym9110584 - 06 Nov 2017
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5391
Abstract
Valvular dysfunction as the prominent reason of heart failure may causes morbidity and mortality around the world. The inability of human body to regenerate the defected heart valves necessitates the development of the artificial prosthesis to be replaced. Besides, the lack of capacity [...] Read more.
Valvular dysfunction as the prominent reason of heart failure may causes morbidity and mortality around the world. The inability of human body to regenerate the defected heart valves necessitates the development of the artificial prosthesis to be replaced. Besides, the lack of capacity to grow, repair or remodel of an artificial valves and biological difficulty such as infection or inflammation make the development of tissue engineering heart valve (TEHV) concept. This research presented the use of compound of poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and maghemite nanoparticle (γ-Fe2O3) as the potential biomaterials to develop three-dimensional (3D) aortic heart valve scaffold. Electrospinning was used for fabricating the 3D scaffold. The steepest ascent followed by the response surface methodology was used to optimize the electrospinning parameters involved in terms of elastic modulus. The structural and porosity properties of fabricated scaffold were characterized using FE-SEM and liquid displacement technique, respectively. The 3D scaffold was then seeded with aortic smooth muscle cells (AOSMCs) and biological behavior in terms of cell attachment and proliferation during 34 days of incubation was characterized using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and confocal laser microscopy. Furthermore, the mechanical properties in terms of elastic modulus and stiffness were investigated after cell seeding through macro-indentation test. The analysis indicated the formation of ultrafine quality of nanofibers with diameter distribution of 178 ± 45 nm and 90.72% porosity. In terms of cell proliferation, the results exhibited desirable proliferation (109.32 ± 3.22% compared to the control) of cells over the 3D scaffold in 34 days of incubation. The elastic modulus and stiffness index after cell seeding were founded to be 22.78 ± 2.12 MPa and 1490.9 ± 12 Nmm2, respectively. Overall, the fabricated 3D scaffold exhibits desirable structural, biological and mechanical properties and has the potential to be used in vivo. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

5760 KiB  
Article
Helix Electrohydrodynamic Printing of Highly Aligned Serpentine Micro/Nanofibers
by Yongqing Duan, Yajiang Ding, Zhoulong Xu, YongAn Huang and Zhouping Yin
Polymers 2017, 9(9), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym9090434 - 08 Sep 2017
Cited by 39 | Viewed by 7169
Abstract
Micro/nano serpentine structures have widespread applications in flexible/stretchable electronics; however, challenges still exist for low-cost, high-efficiency and controllable manufacturing. Helix electrohydrodynamic printing (HE-printing) has been proposed here to realize controllable direct-writing of large area, highly aligned serpentine micro/nanofibers by introducing the rope coiling [...] Read more.
Micro/nano serpentine structures have widespread applications in flexible/stretchable electronics; however, challenges still exist for low-cost, high-efficiency and controllable manufacturing. Helix electrohydrodynamic printing (HE-printing) has been proposed here to realize controllable direct-writing of large area, highly aligned serpentine micro/nanofibers by introducing the rope coiling effect into printing process. By manipulating the flying trajectory and solidification degree of the micro/nano jet, the solidified micro/nanofiber flying in a stabilized helical manner and versatile serpentine structures deposited on a moving collector have been achieved. Systematic experiments and theoretical analysis were conducted to study the transformation behavior and the size changing rules for various deposited microstructures, and highly aligned serpentine microfibers were directly written by controlling the applied voltage, nozzle-to-collector distance and collector velocity. Furthermore, a hyper-stretchable piezoelectric device that can detect stretching, bending and pressure has been successfully fabricated using the printed serpentine micro/nanofibers, demonstrating the potential of HE-printing in stretchable electronics manufacturing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning of Nanofibres)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-15
Back to TopTop