Influence of electrospinning parameters on the development of high-quality electrospun nanofibers: A brief critical assessment

Abstract

Electrospinning is a versatile technique commonly used to produce nanofibers for various biomedical applications and in tissue engineering. This technique operates on the principle of electrostatic forces, which create fibrous scaffolds from biocompatible polymers. Key characteristics of electrospun nanofibers include their lightweight nature, softness, porosity, and large surface area-to-volume ratio. However, there is a notable gap in the understanding of how these different process parameters affect the quality and mechanical properties of the nanofibers for applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, wound dressings, and scaffolds for regenerative medicine. To bridge this gap, it is crucial to explore different combinations of electrospinning parameters, such as solution flow rate, collector rotation speed, and polymer concentration, as they significantly affect the quality and characteristics of the resulting nanofibers. These various combinations of electrospinning parameters can significantly influence pore size, fiber thickness, surface porosity, and the overall properties of nanofiber structures. In this paper, we present a critical review of the various electrospinning parameters used in producing electrospun nanofibers, and we document a few optimal conditions that can greatly enhance production quality. This review paper aims to emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate polymers along with electrospinning parameters during the fabrication process while contributing valuable insights for researchers and industry stakeholders. Additionally, the impact of incorporating additive materials into the electrospinning process is discussed, along with potential future directions for developing high-quality nanofiber scaffolds with enhanced mechanical properties.

Topics & Concepts