Technology

The disclosure provides a method, apparatus, and collection to produce micro and nanofibers from an adjustable concentric nozzle. This technique consists of the extrusion of protein solution into an evaporative atmosphere to product nanofibers. Previous solution blow techniques focus on the use and generation of synthetic polymers. This details techniques to generate protein-based nano and microfibers using materials such as silk fibroin and corn zein proteins to make nonwoven fabrics. The technique consists of the extrusion of the protein solution into an evaporative atmosphere to produce nanofibers. The technique avoids the use of toxic solvent systems used in electrospinning and wet spinning.

Potential Application

Nonwoven fabrics utilizing natural fibers have been used in medical and health-care applications, wiping and wiper markets, and some apparel markets. Natural fibers have excellent absorbency and feel comfortable to the skin with excellent wet and dry strengths.

Opportunity

The non-woven fabrics market size is estimated to grow from USD 22.62 billion in 2016 to USD 34.85 billion by 2022 and grow at a CAGR of 7.51% during this period. This market is expected to undergo significant growth over the next few years due to advances in technology and the superior performance characteristics of nonwoven fabrics. This growth is in part fueled by growth in the health care markets, a rise in the birth rate, and an increasing aging population in the highly developed countries. The hygiene application of nonwoven fabric used in disposable products such as baby diapers, sanitary napkins, adult incontinence products, training pants, and lens tissues is expected to dominate the market. Rowan University is looking for a partner for further development and commercialization of this technology through a license.