The effects of relative humidity and salt concentration on the diameter of hydrophilic polymeric nanofibers obtained by electrospinning: Synergistic effect study by Central Composite Design (CCD)

This research examines the influence of relative humidity and a model salt concentration present in the electrospinning process on the diameter of nanofibers composed of hydrophilic polymers by modifying relative humidity and the salt concentration in the polymer solution, we aim to better understand the mechanisms controlling the modulation of nanofiber diameter.

A mathematical model was established using a central composite design (CCD)-response surface methodology (RSM). It was validated by statistical tests and compared with experimental data. The model accurately represents the specific behavior and diameter of each polymer in relation to relative humidity and salt concentration, and is capable of predicting fiber diameter. Thus, it was found that there is no significant interaction between environmental parameters and added salts causing alterations in the diameter of the fibers produced, except for polyethylene oxide (PEO). At high values of both humidity and salt concentration, a synergy between the factors causes a decrease in fiber diameter.