Optimization of Electro-Blown PVDF Nanofibrous Mats for Air Filter Applications

Year 2024, Volume: 11 Issue: 2, 199 - 206, 07.07.2024

Ali Toptaş , Mehmet Çalışır , Ali Kılıç

https://doi.org/10.31202/ecjse.1391754

Abstract

Particles with diameters smaller than 2.5 µm (PM2.5) have the capability to penetrate respiratory system, thereby exerting adverse effects on human health. High-efficiency nanofiber mats present a viable and efficient solution for the purification of ambient air contaminated with such particulate matter. In this study, PVDF based electret nanofiber mats were optimized via electro-blowing technique. The experimental parameters were systematically devised utilizing a Taguchi three-level L9 orthogonal design, and the results were subsequently analyzed using ANOVA. In this context, among the examined parameters (concentration, air pressure, and electrical field), the most significant factors influencing fiber diameters were identified as concentration and electric field strength. While an increase in air pressure exhibited a negligible influence on fiber diameters, it was observed to mitigate undesired droplet density. The optimal parameters yielding the thinnest fiber (124 ± 71 nm) were determined as 9 wt.% concentration, 2 bar air pressure, and 30 kV electrical voltage. Furthermore, the application of corona discharge treatment to the specimens resulted in a remarkable enhancement of quality factors by over 70%.

Keywords

Nanofiber, Electro-Blowing Technique, Corona Discharge, Air filter

Ethical Statement

I declare that our study is an original work; that I have adhered to scientific ethical principles and rules at all stages of the study, including preparation, data collection, analysis, and presentation of information; that I have referenced all data and information not obtained within the scope of this study, and included these references in the bibliography; that I have not made any changes to the data used; and that I accept and comply with all the terms and conditions of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) by stating my ethical duties and responsibilities. I declare that, at any time, if a situation contrary to this statement regarding the study is identified, I consent to all moral and legal consequences that may arise.

Supporting Institution

Istanbul Technical University, Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit

Project Number

MGA-2023-44749

Thanks

The authors gratefully acknowledge AREKA Advanced Technology Ltd. Comp., (www.arekananofiber.com) for the electro-blowing system.

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