Electrospun PA12 Nanofibers: Effect of Solution Parameters on Fiber Morphology

Carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are widely used in different industries due to their exceptional mechanical properties and low density. However, delamination and poor vibration damping capacity pose significant challenges to their application. This study focuses on the production of nanofibrous polyamide 12 (Nylon 12) mats obtained through electrospinning to improve the structural properties of epoxy CFRP laminates. Three different Nylon 12 solutions have been prepared using various solvents, and the process parameters for electrospinning have been optimized. The nanofibers produced by the solution with a mixture of formic acid and anisole solvent showed different morphologies depending on the solution concentration. An increase in Nylon 12 concentration leads to thicker, porous fibers. Thermal analysis has demonstrated that the electrospinning process does not alter the thermal properties of the polyamide. The results suggest that the use of PA12 nanofibrous membranes could represent a promising strategy for improving interlaminar fracture toughness in laminated CFRPs.