Parameter study of electrospinning of polyamide-6

Importance of different solution and process parameters were evaluated in multi-nozzle electrospinning of polyamide-6. We were interested in how those parameters affect firstly on fibre diameters and fibre diameter distribution and secondly on production rate and disturbances of the process. The trial series was planned using orthogonal experimental design. Altogether eight parameters having three or two levels each were chosen for this study. The chosen solution parameters were polymer grade, viscosity of solution, salt content and solvent grade and process parameters, voltage, distance, nozzle size and feeding pressure of solution. This study was performed using continuous electrospinning equipment consisting of multiple nozzles and horizontal electric field. Literature findings about the influences of certain variables are often contradictory. These contradictions and their possible causes were discussed. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.