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Electrospinning of Polycarbonates and their Surface Characterization using the SEM and TEM

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 March 2011

Ravi V.N Krishnappa
Affiliation:
Center For Advanced Materials, University of Massachusetts, Lowell MA 01854
Changmo Sung
Affiliation:
Center For Advanced Materials, University of Massachusetts, Lowell MA 01854
Heidi Schreuder-Gibson
Affiliation:
Soldier Systems Command, US Army Labs, Natick, MA
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Abstract

Unlike conventional spin methods, electrospinning is capable of yielding fibers with sub-micron range diameters and high specific surface areas. The use of such electrospun materials in applications, whose functionality depends on the area available, such as separation processes, will be useful. In this study a Bisphenol-A polycarbonate was dissolved in two solvents: Chloroform and a 1:1 mixture of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) and Dimethylformamide (DMF) and resulting polycarbonate solutions were then electrospun to produce polycarbonate fiber-mats. The morphological features of the electrospun polycarbonate fibers have been studied as a function of the solvent used and also as a function of the processing voltage. The studies were conducted using the SEM, TEM and Scion image analysis program. The results indicate bold differences in the fiber morphology and bead density trends with the solvent used. Electrospun polycarbonate fibers exhibit a “Raisin like” puckered structure. Such a structure will enhance the functional efficiency of an electrospun material when used in an area-based application. In addition, studies on crazing of bulk polycarbonate and the surface features of electrospun polycarbonate fibers have been conducted. Results indicate a relation between crazing and the topological features of electrospun polycarbonates.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2002

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References

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