Preparation of water-stable submicron fibers from aqueous latex dispersion of water-insoluble polymers by electrospinning

Submicron polystyrene (PS) fibers were prepared by electrospinning of an aqueous dispersion of PS latex and a small amount of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and subsequent extraction by water. Depending on particle size, surfactant, ratio of PS:PVA, and applied voltage fibers of different morphology and water stability were obtained. Analysis of latex fibers by TEM revealed hexagonal packaging of particles within the fibers. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.