UV-crosslinked Solution Blown PVDF Nanofiber Mats for Protective Applications

Nanofiber mats have received considerable attention from researchers in the field of particulate protection. In this study, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofiber mats were prepared on a large scale by a solution blowing process, and then crosslinked by ultraviolet (UV)-radiation using trimethylolpropane tri-acrylate (TMPTA) as a crosslinker. The structure, morphology, mechanical and thermal properties, and protective performance of the nanofiber mats were evaluated. Results show that the addition of TMPTA and UV treatment decreased the diameter of the nanofibers and enhanced the mechanical properties, air permeability, and moisture permeability. Nanofiber mats show higher filtration and lower filtration resistance compared with a commercial product. Furthermore, the nanofiber mats were bonded with Nylon 6 fabric, which showed good performance as a novel functional layer in protective clothing.