Abstract
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Near-field electrospinning (NFES) is widely recognized as a versatile nanofabrication method,
one suitable for applications in tissue engineering. Rapid developments in this field have given
rise to layered nanofibrous scaffolds. However, this electrostatic fabrication process is limited
by the electric field inhibitory effects of polymer deposition. This leads to a major challenge:
how to surpass this limitation on planar/layered constructs. While the current focus in this area
largely lies with the investigation of new materials, techniques and increasing precision of
NFES systems and patterning, exploration of complex collector substrates is often restricted by
(i) available technology and (ii) access to complex electrode manufacturing tools. To achieve
nanofiber arrays suspended in free space, this paper documents both the development of an
integrated NFES system and the potential of standing electrodes manufactured via selective
laser melting. This system was first tested by 2D patterning on planar silicon, using
polyethylene oxide polymer solution. To demonstrate suspension NFES, two patterns
operating within and around the standing electrodes produced high volume suspended
nanoarrays. Image analysis of the arrays allowed for the assessment of fiber directionality and
isotropy. By scanning electron microscopy, it was found that a mean fiber diameter of 310 nm
of the arrays was achieved. Effectively manoeuvring between the electrode pillars required a
precision automated system (unavailable off-the-shelf), developed in-house. This technique
can be applied to the fabrication of nanofiber structures of sufficient volume for tissue
engineering.