C11956: Improved Stretched Microfiber ProductionNovelty:
This technology is a new method for producing stretched microfibers with smaller, more consistent diameters.
Value Proposition:
While there are numerous known applications for microfibers, current fabrication methods lack a significant amount of control. These primarily consist of using a high voltage electrode to initiate the creation of material. However, it is very difficult to control the speed at which the fiber is extruded, yielding inconsistent and often wide thickness. Mechanical properties, are therefore, very inconsistent. This technology provides a way to control fiber speed and produce consistent microfibers. Other advantages include:
• Slower stretching process allows better control of fiber thickness from tens to hundreds of nanometers
• Can be produced with core and sheath structure to embed material
• Produces stronger polymer fibers due to improved internal polymer alignment and mechanical properties
• Can generate smaller gauge fibers than conventional electrofiber spinning methods
Technical Details:
Johns Hopkins researchers have developed a new apparatus for creating microfibers, without the need for high temperature, organic solvents or electromagnetic field treatments. These are instead replaced by equipment that is much easier to control, so that less experimentation is required to achieve the desired thickness. The fibers can be used with biological materials for tissue engineering applications, or with non-biological materials such as carbon nanotubes.
Looking for Partners:
To develop and commercialize the technology as a new method and material to be used in the tissue engineering market.
Stage of Development:
Prototype
Data Availability:
Fiber characterization.
Publications/Associated Cases:
Not available at this time
