Fiber Adhesion-Driven Nonlinear Mechanics of Composite Nanofiber Networks

Author

• Javier Isai Ramirez, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Date of Award

8-1-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)

Department

Mechanical Engineering

First Advisor

Mohammad Islam

Second Advisor

Arturo Fuentes

Third Advisor

Farid Ahmed

Abstract

Electrospun nanofiber mats have potential in multidisciplinary applications such as packaging, filtration, and biomedical scaffolds due to their high surface area and tunable properties. Their extensive use relies on controlling and understanding mechanical behavior, especially the commonly overlooked function of fiber-fiber adhesion in the nonlinear mechanics of these highly porous materials. The objective of this master’s thesis is to investigate the role of fiber-fiber adhesion on the emergent mechanics of nanofiber networks, by experimenting on composite nanofiber networks composed of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), used as model systems. Uniaxial tension tests and optical imaging will be used to measure mechanical behavior, Poisson contraction, and damage initiation in the nanofiber mats. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) will be utilized to elucidate the structure-mechanics relationships. Fracture toughness will be examined to relate nanofiber structure to energy dissipation during crack initiation and propagation.

Comments

Copyright 2026 Javier Isai Ramirez. All Rights Reserved. https://proquest.com/docview/3409025086

Recommended Citation

Ramirez, J. I. (2026). Fiber Adhesion-Driven Nonlinear Mechanics of Composite Nanofiber Networks [Master's thesis, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley]. ScholarWorks @ UTRGV. https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/2012