Optimization of Electrospinning Conditions for Preparation of Ethyl Cellulose (EC) Nanofibers (Nf) Based on the Taguchi Method

Abstract

The preparation of ethylcellulose (EC) nanofibers (NFs) using the electrospinning method, was optimized by the Taguchi experimental design. The Electrospinning parameters such as EC concentration, voltage, solvent composition, and feed rate were design parameters. The experimental design was performed by the Taguchi method and four levels were selected for each parameter (L16 array).  The resulting fibers were imaged by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that it is possible to prepare the EC fibers with a diameter of less than 100 nm by the electrospinning method. Under optimal conditions, EC fibers with a diameter of 42 nm were prepared.

Keywords: Electrospinning, ethyl cellulose, Fiber, Diameter, Taguchi method