Synthesis and mechanical characterization of a non-woven nanofiber by the electrospinning technique

Abstract

A non-woven nanofiber or polymeric cover is synthesized with nylon-6 as the base polymeric material. Different acid relationships (formic/acetic) were tested in the electrospinning equipment, until defining by macroscopic observations and SEM Scanning Electron Microscopy analysis the adequate acid ratio 3:2 and the average diameter of the nanofibers in 350nm, defining the parameters to operate the electrospinning. According to ASTM D 882 standard, the Tensile Strength was calculated for stresses applied horizontally and vertically to the direction of the nanofibers. With the standards ASTM D 7490 and ASTM G-15 the wettability was determined by measuring the contact angle, finding that it has hydrophilic properties with high wettability, adhesiveness and surface energy. Nanostructured polymer covers can be used for biological isolation in health care areas, as a protective barrier to control the spread of infections.

Keywords

• nanoparticle synthesis
• electrospinning
• polymer cover
• mechanical characterization
• nanofiber
• non-woven.