Theses and Dissertations

ORCID

https://orcid.org/0009-0005-2926-9825

Advisor

Knizley, Alta

Committee Member

Green, Morgan K.

Committee Member

Jessop, Julie L.

Date of Degree

12-12-2025

Original embargo terms

Immediate Worldwide Access

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Open Access

Major

Mechanical Engineering

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

James Worth Bagley College of Engineering

Department

Michael W. Hall School of Mechanical Engineering

Abstract

This study aims to analyze various polymer-solvent combinations for electrospun creation of nanofiber media and to determine the best-suited solution for lab-grade electrospinning. Suitable solutions allow for controlled morphology of fiber diameters and for efficiency of media creation. The principal variables are solvent, concentration, and voltage. Humidity and temperature play a secondary variable role. The solution must withstand an electric field of ≤30 kV and be insoluble in water to maintain desired morphology and structure. Manipulation of the solutions and variables allow for fiber diameter optimization and beading minimization. High temperature filter applications require efficiency in intense heat and preservation of media structure. Fiber diameters must be within the nanometer to micrometer range for filtration of small particles. Nanofiber beading causes inefficient filtration and must be avoided. These developments improve efficiency of filtration media within the electrospinning industry and potentially allow for optimization of air filtration within a nuclear setting.

Sponsorship (Optional)

This work was supported by the United States Department of Energy through the Battelle Savannah River Alliance LLC, subcontract: 0000532298, Statement of Work: G-SOW-A-02284.

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