Design of experiments as a comprehensive framework to optimize electrospinning parameters for enhanced β-phase in poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene)
摘要
Advancements in piezoelectric materials are critical for next-generation sensing and energy-harvesting technologies, where nanostructured polymers play a pivotal role. Therefore, this study focuses on the fabrication and optimization of poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-co-HFP) nanofibers via electrospinning, with the goal of maximizing β-phase content to enhance piezoelectric performance. Key electrospinning parameters, including polymer solution concentration, applied voltage, flow rate, and drum rotation speed, were systematically optimized using the Taguchi method based on an L9 orthogonal array. β-phase content was quantified by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, while structural analysis via X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the presence of β- and α-phases, with no detectable γ-phase. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) provided insights into fiber morphology, revealed how fiber morphology, particularly diameter and fiber formation, correlated with macroscopic appearance and material properties. Signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio analysis identified polymer concentration as the most critical factor influencing β-phase formation, a conclusion further supported by ANOVA. The optimal electrospinning parameters (20 wt% polymer solution, 20 kV voltage, 4 mL/h flow rate, and 2300 rpm drum speed) predicted a 100% β-phase content, which was experimentally validated at 98.7%, confirming the reliability of the optimization strategy. The integration of FTIR, XRD, SEM, and statistical modeling offers a robust framework for engineering high-performance piezoelectric nanofibers, advancing the design of flexible, multifunctional materials for wearable electronics and energy-harvesting applications.