Spanning Small Organic Molecules to Polymer Nanofiber Materials: An Integrated Laboratory Experiment for Undergraduates Majoring in Materials and Chemistry

Abstract

To cultivate systematic thinking and innovation in students, a comprehensive laboratory-based experimental teaching program, spanning small organic molecules to polymer nanofiber materials, is designed for senior undergraduates in materials chemistry, polymer chemistry, applied chemistry, and related disciplines. The program comprises four modules: interfacial polycondensation of nylon-66, viscosity testing of polymer solutions, electrospinning technology of nanofibers, and observation of nanofiber morphology. It integrates fundamental knowledge of polymer synthesis and processing, covering key concepts such as polycondensation reactions, polymer solution behavior, viscosity, nanofiber fabrication, and morphological characterization. Eight materials chemistry undergraduates were randomly selected and divided into four groups to assess the feasibility of conducting this comprehensive experiment in an undergraduate laboratory setting. The results demonstrated that all four student groups successfully synthesized nylon-66 through interfacial polycondensation and fabricated nylon-66 nanofibers via electrospinning. Furthermore, nanofiber morphology was effectively controlled by adjusting parameters, such as solution concentration, viscosity, and electrospinning voltage. Students not only deepened their understanding of polymer synthesis and material processing theories but also acquired hands-on skills in interfacial polycondensation, viscosity measurement, electrospinning, and morphological observation. Additionally, this STEAM-integrated approach enhanced the experimental design capabilities and digital microscopy skills.