Electrospun Nanofibrous Membranes for Air Filtration: A Critical Review

Abstract

Air filtration is an urgent global need because, in many countries and regions, the high concentration of inhalable suspended particles in the air is causing irreversible damage to human health. The use of nanofibrous membranes can help to reduce airborne particulate matter because of their large surface area, extremely porous structure, and adjustable pore size. However, despite their unique properties, the main drawbacks of nanofibre membranes are their poor mechanical properties. This review focuses on nanofibrous membranes prepared by electrospinning, a versatile technique in which the process parameters allow control of the morphology and dimensional characteristics of the nanofibres. Recent literature on air filtration is reviewed, focusing on the performance of materials such as pure or mixed polymers, organic–inorganic composites, and ‘green’ materials in the form of nanofibrous membranes. Finally, the recently proposed layered structures for nanofibre-based air filters are reviewed, offering the latest and most innovative solutions.

Keywords

• air filtration
• electrospinning
• nanofibres
• filtration efficiency
• nanofibrous membranes