Preparing and Mounting Polymer Nanofibers onto Microscale Test Platforms

Abstract

Because they can achieve a high degree of molecular chain alignment in comparison with their bulk counterparts, the mechanical and thermal properties of polymer nanofibers are of great interest. However, due to their nanometer-scale size, it is difficult to manipulate, grip, and test these fibers. Here, we demonstrate simple repeatable methods to transfer as-drawn fibers to micrometer-scale test platforms where their properties can be directly measured. Issues encountered and methods to minimize measurement artifacts are also discussed.

Keywords

• polymer nanofiber
• manipulation
• precision mounting
• UHMWPE