Electrohydrodynamic Direct Writing Platform Based on Near-Field Electrospinning

Abstract

Electrohydrodynamic Direct Writing (EDW) based on Near-Field Electrospinning (NFES) is a novel method to fabricate aligned micro/nano structure. In this article, linear motors and PIV&F servo control algorithm are introduced to set up an EDW experiment platform, by which patterned micro/nano structure can be direct-written. The motion track and position of collector is adjusted accurately by the platform, thus the deposition position and pattern of direct-written micro/nano structure can be controlled according to the pre-designed pattern. When motion velocity of collector higher than the ejection jet, micro/nano structure in straight line can be gained; but twisted structure can be direct-written under lower motion velocity of collector. The standstill of collector is introduced to overcome the pattern distortion that stems from the sharp change of collector motion track and the inertia of following jet. With the help of motion standstill, the patterned micro/nano structure without distortion can be direct-written, and more jet would be deposited at the corner of the pattern leaded to coiled structure. The EHD platform builds up the based for the industrial application of 1D micro/nano structure.

Patterning and process parameter effects in 3D suspension near-field electrospinning of nanoarrays

“…Within the last ten years, electrospinning technology has advanced, allowing for the direct patterning of nanofibers. Typically termed near-field electrospinning (NFES) or electrohydrodynamic direct writing [33], these technologies have allowed directly written nanofibrous structures to be generated in designed patterns. This is achieved by reducing the working distance (WD) and applied voltage, precluding the jetting instability inherent to FFES.…”