What is polymer nanofibers?

Polymer nanofibers are a consequential class of nanomaterials. The diameter of nanofibers is less than 100 nm. Various fabrication techniques are used for synthesis of nanofibers, including electrospinning [33–38], phase separation [39], melt-blown [40,41], self-assembly [42], and template synthesis [43–45].

What kind of polymer solution is required for the electrospinning?

Electrospinning is most typically performed with unbranched polymers of intermediate molecular weights (i.e., 50–500 kDa) that either have a small pendant groups (e.g., polystyrene, PLA) or no pendant group (e.g., PEO, PGA, PCL).

How are nanofibers made?

Three-dimensional aligned nanofibers are produced from a polymer jet emanating from a high-speed rotating nozzle. This process is termed as rotary jet spinning. Nanofibers are formed from the polymer jet that undergoes stretching before solidification.

Which type of polymers are required to fabricate nanofibers used in biomedical application?

Biocompatible and biodegradable polymers are required to fabricate nanofibers used in biomedical application.

How is electrospinning used in the fabrication of nanofibers?

Electrospinning has been recognized as an efficient technique for the fabrication of polymer nanofibers. Various polymers have been successfully electrospun into ultrafine fibers in recent years mostly in solvent solution and some in melt form.

When did Paul Simons invent polymer nanofibers?

In 1966, Simons patented an apparatus for the production of non-woven fabrics of ultra thin and very light in weight with different patterns using electrical spinning [136]. The positive electrode was immersed into the polymer solution and the negative one was connected to a belt where the non-woven fabric was collected.

What are the limitations of polymer nanofibers research?

Other issues regarding the technology limitations, research challenges, and future trends are also discussed. 1. Introduction

How is phase separation done in polymer nanofibers?

The phase separation consists of dissolution, gelation, extraction using a different solvent, freezing, and drying resulting in a nanoscale porous foam. The process takes relatively long period of time to transfer the solid polymer into the nano-porous foam.