Electrospinning: A simple and versatile technique for producing ceramic nanofibers and nanotubes

Electrospinning is a remarkably simple method for generating nanofibers of polymers. When combined with conventional sol-gel processing, it provides a versatile technique for producing ceramic nanofibers with either a solid, porous, or hollow structure. This article presents a brief overview of recent progress in preparation of ceramic nanofibers by electrospinning, with a focus on an introduction to experimental procedures and analysis of several technical issues that are vital for a successful electrospinning experiment. We also highlight the unique capabilities of this technique in processing ceramic materials into nanostructures, and illustrate some potential applications of these nanostructures.