Review on flammability of biofibres and biocomposites.

The subject on flammability properties of natural fibre-reinforced biopolymer composites has not been broadly researched. This is not only evidenced by the minimal use of biopolymer composites and/or blends in different engineering areas where fire risk and hazard to both human and structures is of critical concern, but also the limited amount of published scientific work on the subject. Therefore, it is necessary to expand knowledge on the flammability properties of biopolymers and add value in widening the range of their application.

Electrospun chitosan-based nanocomposite mats reinforced with chitin nanocrystals for wound dressing.

The aim of this study was to develop electrospun chitosan/polyethylene oxide-based randomly oriented fiber mats reinforced with chitin nanocrystals (ChNC) for wound dressing. Microscopy studies showed porous mats of smooth and beadless fibers with diameters between 223 and 966 nm. The addition of chitin nanocrystals as well as crosslinking had a positive impact on the mechanical properties of the mats, and the crosslinked nanocomposite mats with a tensile strength of 64.

Role of jet path on uniformity of electrospun nanofibers.

This paper reports on the role of jet path in obtaining uniform and bead free nanofibers during electrospinning process. Polyethylene oxide (PEO) nanofibers were electrospun by varying the molecular weight of PEO and concentration of poly allylamine hydrochloride (PAH) in the spinning solution. Different modes of fiber formation were captured by a camera and analyzed further by image processing technique in order to assess their influence in the formation of uniform and bead free nanofibers.