Magnetic Field Assisted Electrospinning of Nanofibers Using Solutions with PVDF and Fe 3 O 4 Nanoparticles

This study aims at investigating the formation of nanofibers containing poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles using magnetic field assisted electrospinning. For this purpose, two Helmholtz coils were mounted on the electrospinning apparatus in order to create a uniform magnetic field. Different separations, angles and magnetic fields are being analyzed. Polymeric solutions containing PVDF, DMF and acetone with a concentration of 18 wt% were adopted (DMF to Acetone ratio of 3 to 1). Iron Oxide Nanopowder (Fe 3 O 4 , particle diameter of 20 nm to 30 nm) to PVDF ratios are 1:5, 1:10 and 1:15. The application of the electromagnetic field during fiber deposition results in better orientation of the polymer flow towards the grounded electrode and leads to smoother fibers with diameters in the range of hundreds of nanometers. Blisters, probably related to Fe 3 O 4 agglomerates, were distributed on the surface of all samples of this study. A magnetic field response of the nanofibers with higher magnetic fields was clear observed. By adding more Fe 3 O 4 to the polymeric solution the ferromagnetic response on thin films and nanofibers was improved. The analysis of circular capacitors revealed a full dielectric response.