Mechanism and experimental investigation on the formation of micro‐triangle stepped jet in composite spinning solution

• Published in: Polymer engineering and science 2024-09, Vol.64 (9), p.4309-4320
• Main Authors: Zhang, Zhiming, Huang, Xinyu, Hong, Da, Ye, Peiyan, Chen, Zhen, Xu, Qiao
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Centrifugal force; composite nanofiber; Diameters; Flow velocity; Fluid flow; micro‐triangle; Nanofibers; Nanotechnology; Nozzles; Parameters; Polyethylene oxide; Polyvinylpyrrolidone; rotating jet spinning; stepped jet; Surface tension; Technology application
• ISSN: 0032-3888; 1548-2634
• DOI: 10.1002/pen.26849

In the field of nanotechnology, rotary jet spinning technology has garnered attention due to its unique advantages in fabricating composite nanofibers. The composite nanofibers prepared using this technology exhibit exceptional purity, uniformity, and consistency, thereby enhancing reliability and controllability in practical applications. During the process of rotary jet spinning, the spinning solution flows into the nozzle and converges at a micro‐triangle under the combined influence of centrifugal force, viscous force, surface tension, and gravity. Stepped jet refers to the flow phenomenon occurring within a channel with a gradually decreasing cross‐sectional area. In this process, an increase in the flow velocity of the composite spinning solution aids in stabilizing stretching at the micro‐triangle which is crucial for forming continuous jets. This article analyzes cone formation mechanisms for composite spinning solutions and stepped jet principles while establishing corresponding models that reflect relationships between solution velocity magnitude and parameters such as rotational speed, concentration, and nozzle diameter. Finally, polyethylene oxide (PEO)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) composite nanofibers were prepared using a rotary jet spinning device where experimental investigation focused on examining how parameters such as rotational speed, solution concentration, and nozzle diameter impact motion of spinning solution within micro‐triangle. Highlights Preparation of PEO/PVP composite nanofibers by rotary jet spinning. Presentation of cone formation mechanisms for composite solutions. The stepped injection principle was proposed. Modeling of composite solution motion. Rotational speed, solution concentration, and nozzle diameter impact motion. Mechanism of rotary jet spinning micro‐triangle stepped jet formation.