What are Nanostructures?

Nanostructure is a fiber with a diameter measuring less than 1 micrometer (1000 nanometers). Nanostructures have unique properties compared to larger fibers as their small diameter and extremely large specific surface area lend them properties ideal for many applications.

Production of Nanostructures

There are various methods for producing nanostructures but the most common are electrospinning and meltblowing. In electrospinning, a polymer solution or melt is pumped through a capillary tube by a syringe pump. A high voltage electric field is applied between the tip of the tube and a collector plate. This creates electrically charged jets of polymer solution which accelerates towards the collector and leaves randomly oriented nanostructures on the plate as the solvent evaporates. Meltblowing uses gravity, centrifugal force and high-velocity air to produce continuous non-woven nanostructure mats as molten polymer is extruded through a die and encounters converging hot air streams.

Properties of Nanofiber

Due to their small diameter and high surface area to volume ratio, Nanofiber

have a number of unique properties making them very useful in many applications. Their small pore size allows for ideal filtration of particles down to virus size. High tensile strength allows for reinforcement in lightweight composites. Porosity permits high gas permeability needed for wound dressings. Surface functionality can be tailored using different polymers and surface treatments. Biocompatibility also opens up uses in biomedical and healthcare.

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