METHOD OF PRODUCING STRUCTURES USING CENTRIFUGAL FORCES

摘要

A variety of hollow structures with unique morphologies were manufactured wi th a rotational spinning technique. Phase separation of soluble solutions was induced within a filled mold as it was being rotated about one of its axis. As phase-separation occurs within this rotating mold, the increase in density o f one phase results in sediment at the periphery under centrifugal forces. Aft er or during sedimentation, gelation of the phase-separated particles fixes the tube morphology and the solvent remains in the center of the mold. The solve nt is removed from the mold resulting in a tube. By controlling the rotational speed and the formulation chemistry, the tube dimensions and wall morphology can be manipulated. This technique offers a new approach to the manufacture of polymeric tubes. It requires small quantities of starting material, permits multi- layering of tubes, is applicable to diverse polymers and can result i n highly diffusive hollow structures while maintaining good mechanical strengt h.