Nanoclay‐Directed Structure and Morphology in PVDF Electrospun Membranes

The incorporation of organically modified Lucentite nanoclay dramatically modifies the structure and morphology of the PVDF electrospun fibers. In a molecular level, the nanoclay preferentially stabilizes the all‐trans conformation of the polymer chain, promoting an α to β transformation of the crystalline phase. The piezoelectric properties of the β ‐phase carry great promise for energy harvest applications. At a larger scale, the nanoclay facilitates the formation of highly uniform, bead‐free fibers. Such an effect can be attributed to the enhanced conductivity and viscoelasticity of the PVDF‐clay suspension. The homogenous distribution of the directionally aligned nanoclays imparts advanced mechanical properties to the nanofibers.