Smallfiber

Smallfiber is a term used in materials science and textile engineering to describe ultrafine fibers whose diameters are in the sub-micrometer to nanometer range. The term is not tied to a single material and can refer to polymer, ceramic, or composite fibers produced through various spinning or templating processes. They are distinguished from conventional fibers by a high surface area to volume ratio and enhanced porosity.

Common production methods include electrospinning, melt-spinning with fine nozzle sizes, and solution or melt jet spinning. Polymers such as polycaprolactone, polyacrylonitrile, and polyvinylidene fluoride are used, as are inorganic systems like silica and carbon. Diameters typically range from tens of nanometers to sub-micrometers.

Applications of Smallfiber mats include filtration membranes for air and liquids, wound dressings, and tissue engineering scaffolds, as well as sensors and protective clothing. In composites, smallfiber fill can improve surface area and interfacial bonding, contributing to enhanced strength-to-weight ratios and thermal insulation.

Key challenges include mechanical fragility, production scalability, and achieving consistent fiber diameter and orientation. Research focuses on surface functionalization, alignment techniques, and integration into larger devices, as well as safer, more cost-effective manufacturing methods.

See also nanofibers, electrospinning.