An Adaptable Device for Scalable Electrospinning of Low- and High-Viscosity Solutions

Journal Article · Wed Aug 07 00:00:00 EDT 2019 · Instruments

DOI:https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments3030037· OSTI ID:1547693

McCarty, Ryan J.; Giapis, Konstantinos P.

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.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Advanced Research Projects Agency - Energy (ARPA-E)
• Grant/Contract Number: AR0000495
• OSTI ID: 1547693
• Journal Information: Instruments, Journal Name: Instruments Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 3; ISSN 2410-390X; ISSN INSTCO
• Publisher: MDPI AG
• Country of Publication: Switzerland
• Language: English