Design, Development, and Optimization of a Portable Nanofiber Production Apparatus

Author

• Ian Slater Gonzalez, 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

Victoria Padilla Gainza

Second Advisor

Karen Lozano

Third Advisor

Arturo Fuentes

Abstract

A hybrid nanofiber-spinning system combining blowspinning and ForceSpinning was developed to overcome limitations of previous technologies, particularly in airflow control. In this approach, ForceSpinning ejects polymer solution from the spinneret efficiently, while blowspinning enhances fiber extension and drying. Experiments showed that a 90° spinneret with internal guiding channels produced the highest fiber mass (μ = 144 mg, σ = 10.9 mg) at 6.7 m/s air speed and 12,600 RPM, despite reduced exit efficiency (μ = 85.1%, σ = 6.8%), whereas 45° orifices yielded thinner fibers (x̄ = 2.86 µm, w/2 = 1.24 µm). Critical operating thresholds were identified: air speeds above ~3.5 m/s and motor speeds above ~9,600 RPM stabilized production, peaking between 10,600–13,500 RPM. Using 90° spinnerets with internal guiding channels, a stable region at 6.7–7.5 m/s air speeds and 12,600–14,650 RPM produced fibers with x̄ = 7.98 µm and w/2 = 3.51 µm. Premature jet drying limited fiber thinning, preventing nanoscale fiber production. Independent control of air and motor speeds allows identification of multiple optimal conditions, demonstrating the advantages of this hybrid technique for controlled nanofiber synthesis.

Comments

Copyright 2026 Ian Slater Gonzalez. All Rights Reserved. https://proquest.com/docview/3409152870

Recommended Citation

Gonzalez, I. S. (2026). Design, Development, and Optimization of a Portable Nanofiber Production Apparatus [Master's thesis, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley]. ScholarWorks @ UTRGV. https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/2076