Magnetorheological characterization and electrospinnability of ultrasound-treated polymer solutions containing magnetic nanoparticles

Abstract

In order to fabricate a magnetic nanofibrous membrane by electrospinning, it is necessary to follow a suitable method for incorporating nanoparticles into a polymer solution. Ultrasound treatment represents a very effective technique for distributing magnetic nanoparticles within polymer solutions. Adverse effects caused by sonication over time on the given nanofibrous membrane (polymer degradation and appearance of defects) were evaluated by using rotational (magneto)rheometry, transmission and scanning electron microscopy, and magnetometry. A magnetorheological approach was selected to estimate the optimal duration of sonication, and findings were experimentally verified. It was concluded that the processed nanofibrous membrane showed promise as an advanced magnetoactive device.