Novel Use of Laser Zone-Drawing on Nanofibers Enables Ultra-Fast Thermal Kinetics and Precise Diameter Control

Laser zone-drawing is shown to significantly enhance control over nanofiber properties. This study investigates the dynamics of nanofiber laser zone-drawing. It is hypothesized that the equilibrium between heating and cooling guides fiber temperature. The high heating rate of laser irradiation and the high convective cooling rate of nanofibers facilitate fast heating and cooling kinetics. Results showed fiber thinning in the presence of laser irradiation until reaching a steady-state diameter. Final fiber diameter is correlated to laser power independent of initial fiber diameter. The relationship between final fiber diameter and laser power is used to estimate the heat transfer coefficient, which is used to create a computational model of the thermodynamic system. These simulations predict rapid heating and cooling up to 36 000 K min⁻¹ for the lowest fiber diameters tested experimentally. While laser-induced softening of polymer nanofibers is described in detail, the forces driving fiber drawing, particularly under different thermal kinetics, remain unexplored. This research showcases the capabilities of laser zone-drawing in nanofiber manufacturing and facilitates future investigations aimed at enhancing fiber processing by producing highly aligned molecular structures via rapid cooling. This work signifies a pivotal methodological leap, promising transformative nanofiber materials useful across multiple industries including aerospace, electronics, and biomedicine.