Preparation and Characterization of Electrospun Nanofiber of Poly (Vinyl Alcohol) and Cellulose Nanocrystals

In this study Poly vinyl alcohol (PVA) and cellulose nanocrysrals (CNC) composite nanofibers were prepared by electrospinning process. To dissolve PVA, the deionized water was used due to environmental friendly of PVA. The design of experiments (DOE) was done by the Taguchi method using the Minitab for optimization of electrospinning. Polymer concentration was determined in 4, 6, 8 and 10% by solvent weight. Bead-free fibers were produced in 8% PVA concentration. CNC were added to polymer in 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2% by PVA weight and DOE was applied for Needle to collector distance (cm), polymer concentration (%), polymer feed rate (mh/hr.) and applied voltage (Kv) were defined as variables, again to reach the thinnest fibers. Nanocomposites were soaked in GA 50% concentration for 48 hrs. to prevent nanocomposites decomposition. SEM and FESEM were used for morphological characterization. Diameter of the fibers was analyzed by Image software. Tensile, Modulus of Elasticity (MOE), Tension, Porosity, swelling and dissolving of nanocomposites were examined. Chemical reactions were traced by FTIR. Fibers with 87±16 nm in diameter were achieved in 0.5% CNC, 22 KV, 0.3 ml/hr. and 20 cm. Swelling and and solubility of nanocomposites were significantly improved by GA. FTIR spectra shows hemiacetal bounds produced during GA soaking. MOE and tensile were improved by CNC addition meanwhile tension and porosity were decreased. Same results were obtained for GA soaked nanocomposites.