Electrostatic processing of polymers and polymer composites

Polymers are a broad class of molecules whose use in modern life is undeniable ranging from automobile parts to pharmaceuticals. One method applicable to polymer material production is known as electrostatic processing which includes electrospraying, used to produce films or microparticles, and electrospinning, which can be used to produce fibers or non-woven materials. Electrostatic processing typically results in products with droplet or fiber diameters on the micron or nanometer scale. We have sought to develop novel polymeric materials and composites using electrostatic processing. The end uses of these materials were diverse, and included controlled release of drugs, microencapsulation of proteins and enzymes, provision of molecular cues for directed cell growth, hydronium ion transport, and electrically conductive polymer and catalytically active composites. We have successfully demonstrated that electrostatic processing can be used to produce a wide variety of functionally active polymer based materials with significant commercial, medical, and scientific potential.