The effect of solution viscosity on the quality of electroactive nanofibers produced by electrospinning

Abstract

This work describes the modification of organic–inorganic nanofibrous templates for advanced electrotechnical applications and their filling with active particles from various materials, according to their intended use. The organic component of the templates consists of high molecular polyvinylpyrrolidone. The inorganic part is colloidal SiO2. The organic–inorganic templates produce by electrospinning can be filled with inorganic particles with diameter below 50 µm (for example, different types of spinels or electroactive nanopowders). The idea is to create a modifiable and flexible material for use as a template for electrodes or a solid electrolyte in a safe solid-state battery. The quality and properties of nanofibers are very important for advanced applications, and therefore, the optimization of the manufacturing process is needed. The most important property is the viscosity of the organic–inorganic solution for electrospinning. The influence of viscosity on the quality of nanofibrous layers was observed even with very subtle differences in viscosity. The age of the precursors and the resulting workability time also plays a significant role. Graphical abstract: (Figure presented.)