Electrospinning technology: how it works.
Learn how electrospinning turns a polymer solution into nanofibers — from Taylor cone formation to fiber collection — and the parameters that control the result.
Electricity, not mechanics, draws the fiber.
Electrospinning uses a strong electric field to pull a charged polymer solution into an extremely thin jet. As the jet travels to a grounded collector, it stretches and the solvent evaporates, leaving continuous solid fibers with diameters typically from tens of nanometers to a few micrometers.
Typical fiber diameter range
Surface-area-to-volume ratio
Interconnected nonwoven structure
Morphology via process parameters
The process, step by step
Four physical stages turn a droplet into a nanofiber mat.
Three groups of variables shape every fiber
Small changes in any parameter can shift fiber diameter, bead formation and alignment.
Solution parameters
- Polymer concentrationviscosity
- Molecular weightentanglement
- Conductivitycharge density
- Surface tensionbead formation
- Solvent volatilitydrying
Process parameters
- Applied voltagecone stability
- Flow ratefiber diameter
- Tip-to-collector distanceflight time
- Needle gaugejet size
- Collector typealignment
Ambient parameters
- Relative humidityporosity
- Temperatureevaporation
- Air flowjet path
- Enclosurestability
- Groundingsafety
Common configurations
Single-needle
The standard laboratory configuration — ideal for material screening and parameter studies.
Coaxial
Two concentric needles create core–shell fibers, useful for encapsulation and controlled release research.
Rotating collector
A spinning drum or mandrel aligns fibers for anisotropic mats and tubular scaffolds.
Ready to try electrospinning?
Explore SpinTech SE or book a live demo to see each parameter in action.
Frequently asked questions
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What is a Taylor cone?
The conical shape a charged droplet takes when electrostatic forces balance surface tension; a jet is emitted from its tip.
Why do beads form on fibers?
Beads often appear when solution viscosity is too low or surface tension too high relative to the electric field.
Can electrospinning produce aligned fibers?
Yes — rotating drums or parallel-electrode collectors can align fibers.
Which polymers can be electrospun?
Many synthetic and natural polymers, including PVA, PAN, PCL, PVDF, nylon, gelatin and chitosan blends.
Talk to our nanofiber team
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