SGER: Electrospinning as a Method of Fabrication of Catalytic Nanofibers

University Of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln NE

Investigators

Abstract

The objective of this proposal is to electrospin oligomeric titanium dioxide/silicon dioxide precursor solutions to control the formation of catalytic nanorods. Electrospinning is a process by which a charged jet is ejected from a capillary tube. Through an external electric field the jet is elongated and accelerated. The PI has previously demonstrated the ability to electrospin soluble polymers to produce fibers in the 3 nm to sub-micron diameter range. This technique has the potential for cost-effective electromechanical control of catalytic fiber size, shape, molecular orientation, and properties, as well as control of fiber placement for integrated manufacturing of two-and three dimensional nanofiber assemblies. Surface areas of 200 m2/g are feasible. The PIs will synthesize and test several catalyst systems suitable for the catalytic partial oxidation of cyclooctene in the presence of peroxides. If successful, this project has the potential to guide a new manufacturing technique for the production of catalysts on nanofibers.