The formation and morphology of PVA ferrogel nanofibre by the electrospinning process

Aqueous solutions of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with FeCl3 were homogenously mixed and subsequently electrospun; and its characteristics were studied as a function of voltage, tip-target distance and solution flow rate. Fiber mats of (PVA)/FeCl3 composite, in the diameter of 700–1100 nm were prepared by electrospinning. Lower concentrations of solution tended to facilitate the formation of fibres with beads. With increasing concentration, the morphology was improved with smooth and uniform fibres and the increased fibre diameters in the nano range. Spinning voltage also had an important influence on the diameters of the nano fibres, while the collection distance affected fibre diameters. Nano fibres of smaller diameter were formed when lower voltages are applied. The morphology of the electrospun from PVA/FeCl3 nano fibres and their magnetic power was observed and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).The fibres produced in this way could potentially be applied to manufacture magnetic sensors, flexible magnets.