Effect of electric field on gas-assisted melt differential electrospinning with hollow disc electrode

The concept of a gas-assisted melt differential electrospinning device with hollow disc electrode is presented. As the electric field force is the only drawing force stretching polymer melt jet to fibers, it is necessary to study the distribution and electric field intensity of the electric field created in the spinning region caused by the hollow disc electrode. A series of electric field simulations, including the distribution of the electric field and the relationship between electric field intensity and various parameters were carried out by the finite element method. In addition, experiments of melt electrospinning were conducted, mainly focusing on several electrical parameters affecting the fiber diameter. The results of simulations were compared with those of experiments, proving experimental phenomena and conjectures. The results of simulations and experiments were mutually corroborated and consistent with each other. All results provided significant support and basis for future exploration and development of melt electrospinning.