Using a newly developed method of producing glass nanofibers with materials, a team of scientists from the University of Vigo, Rutgers University in the U.S. and Imperial College London, have been able to make bioglass nanofibers. These could be used in carbon sequestration and other purposes.
The method is called “Laser spinning”, and “makes it possible to produce glass nanofibres of compositions that would be impossible to obtain using other methods”, says Félix Quintero, co-author of the study and a researcher at the University of Vigo, tells SINC.
Laser spinning is possible by using a high energy laser that melts a small amount of precursor material, creating a super-fine filament that is lengthened and cooled by a powerful gas current.
The researchers underline the simplicity of the system, its possible use in “environmental conditions” and its high rate of production and control of the material’s composition.
The laser spinning technique can also be used to produce materials that can regenerate bone, to manufacture fire-retardant fabrics, or produce composite materials that require reinforcement with nanofibers.
