Investigation on compound field of electrospinning and melt blowing for producing nanofibers

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to discuss the combination of electrospinning and melt blowing in theory, which may be a good way to produce nanofibers.Design/methodology/approachIn this paper, the electrostatic field and the air flow field were numerical simulated and analyzed, the compound field of which was also discussed.FindingsIt is pointed out that the air flow angle will be a key factor to produce nanofibers in the compound process of electrospinning and melt blowing.Originality/valueThe combination of electrostatic force and air drawing force may be a good way to produce nanofibers when the material is high viscosity melt. Air jets with high temperature and high velocity will provide favorable conditions for attenuating the polymer jet. The flow angle of the air jets effect the whole attenuation force exerted to the polymer jet and should be selected properly.