U.S. patent application number 17/162355 was filed with the patent office on 2021-06-03 for controlling nanofiber sheet width.
This patent application is currently assigned to LINTEC OF AMERICA, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is LINTEC OF AMERICA, INC.. Invention is credited to Julia Bykova, Marcio D. Lima.
Application Number | 20210163295 17/162355 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005387090 |
Filed Date | 2021-06-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210163295 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lima; Marcio D. ; et
al. |
June 3, 2021 |
CONTROLLING NANOFIBER SHEET WIDTH
Abstract
Techniques are described for controlling widths of nanofiber
sheets drawn from a nanofiber forest. Nanofiber sheet width can be
controlled by dividing or sectioning the nanofiber sheet in its
as-drawn state into sub-sheets as the sheet is being drawn. A width
of a sub-sheet can be controlled or selected so as to contain
regions of uniform nanofiber density within a sub-sheet (thereby
improving nanofiber yarn consistency) or to isolate an
inhomogeneity (whether a discontinuity is the sheet (e.g., a tear)
or a variation in density) within a sub-sheet. Techniques for
dividing a nanofiber sheet into sub-sheets includes mechanical,
corona, and electrical arc techniques.
Inventors: |
Lima; Marcio D.;
(Richardson, TX) ; Bykova; Julia; (Richardson,
TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LINTEC OF AMERICA, INC. |
Richardson |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
LINTEC OF AMERICA, INC.
Richardson
TX
|
Family ID: |
1000005387090 |
Appl. No.: |
17/162355 |
Filed: |
January 29, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16114464 |
Aug 28, 2018 |
10941040 |
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17162355 |
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62579264 |
Oct 31, 2017 |
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62561779 |
Sep 22, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C04B 2235/5264 20130101;
B82Y 30/00 20130101; D02G 3/441 20130101; D10B 2101/122 20130101;
D02G 3/16 20130101; D01D 5/42 20130101; D01F 9/12 20130101; C01B
2202/06 20130101; D01D 10/00 20130101; C04B 2235/422 20130101; D01D
5/426 20130101; C01B 2202/08 20130101; C04B 2235/5248 20130101;
C01B 32/176 20170801; B82Y 40/00 20130101; C04B 2235/526 20130101;
D01F 9/127 20130101; C01B 32/16 20170801 |
International
Class: |
C01B 32/176 20060101
C01B032/176; D01D 5/42 20060101 D01D005/42; D01F 9/12 20060101
D01F009/12; D02G 3/16 20060101 D02G003/16; C01B 32/16 20060101
C01B032/16 |
Claims
1. A method for dividing a nanofiber sheet, the method comprising:
configuring a structure to have at least one salient feature
comprising an edge, and at least one reverse salient feature;
contacting the nanofiber sheet with an edge of the at least one
salient feature; and drawing the nanofiber sheet past the at least
one salient feature while maintaining contact therebetween, the
drawing causing the nanofiber sheet to be dividing into
sub-sheets.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein a width of the at least one
salient feature is at least 1 .mu.m.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein a height of the at least one
salient feature is at least 1 .mu.m.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising identifying an
inhomogeneity in the nanofiber sheet, and wherein dividing the
nanofiber sheet comprises dividing the nanofiber sheet into at
least a first sub-sheet and a second sub-sheet, the inhomogeneity
disposed entirely within the first sub-sheet.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein the inhomogeneity is a tear in
the nanofiber sheet or a variation in a number of nanofibers per
unit volume of the nanofiber sheet.
6. The method of claim 4, wherein at least one of the first or
second sub-sheets is less than 5 .mu.m in width.
7. The method of claim 6, further comprising spinning a nanofiber
less than 1 .mu.m in diameter from the sub-sheet less than 5 .mu.m
in width.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Divisional of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 16/114,464, filed on Aug. 28, 2018, which claims the
benefit of U.S. Provisional Pat. Appl. Nos. 62/579,264, filed Oct.
31, 2017 and 62/561,779 filed Sep. 22, 2017. The disclosure of each
of these documents, including the specification, drawings, and
claims, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to nanofibers.
Specifically, the present disclosure relates to controlling
nanofiber sheet width.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Nanofiber forests, composed of both single wall and
multiwalled nanotubes, can be drawn into nanofiber ribbons or
sheets. In its pre-drawn state, the nanofiber forest comprises a
layer (or several stacked layers) of nanofibers that are parallel
to one another and perpendicular to a surface of a growth
substrate. When drawn into a nanofiber sheet, the orientation of
the nanofibers changes from perpendicular to parallel relative to
the surface of the growth substrate. The nanotubes in the drawn
nanofiber sheet connect to one another in an end-to-end
configuration to form a continuous sheet in which a longitudinal
axis of the nanofibers is parallel to a plane of the sheet (i.e.,
parallel to both of the first and second major surfaces of the
nanofiber sheet). The nanofiber sheet can be treated in any of a
variety of ways, including spinning the nanofiber sheet into a
nanofiber yarn.
SUMMARY
[0004] Example 1 is a method for dividing a nanofiber sheet, the
method comprising: providing a nanofiber sheet comprising a
plurality of nanofiber oriented parallel to a direction in which
the nanofiber sheet is drawn, the nanofiber sheet having a first
major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major
surface; positioning at least one electrode proximate to, and not
in direct contact with, at least one of the major surfaces of the
nanofiber sheet; applying a voltage to the at least one electrode
proximate to the at least one major surface of the nanofiber sheet;
generating an electrical discharge at the at least one electrode
from the applied voltage;
and using the electrical discharge, dividing the nanofiber sheet
into two or more sub-sheets by removing a portion of the nanofiber
sheet.
[0005] Example 2 includes the subject matter of Example 1, wherein
positioning the at least one electrode proximate to, and not in
direct contact with, a major surface of the nanofiber sheet
includes generating a corona that removes the portion of the
nanofiber sheet.
[0006] Example 3 includes the subject matter of either of Examples
1 or 2, further comprising increasing a size of the portion of the
nanofiber sheet that is removed by increasing a magnitude of the
applied voltage.
[0007] Example 4 includes the subject matter of any of the
preceding Examples, wherein positioning the at least one electrode
further comprises: placing a first arc discharge electrode
proximate to, and not in direct contact with, a first major surface
of the nanofiber sheet; placing a second arc discharge electrode
proximate to, and not in direct contact with, a second major
surface of the nanofiber sheet, wherein the voltage is applied to
at least one of the first arc discharge electrode and the second
arc discharge electrode; and responsive to the applied voltage,
causing an electrical arc to flow between the first arc discharge
electrode and the second arc discharge electrode.
[0008] Example 5 includes the subject matter of any of the
preceding Examples, further comprising: identifying an
inhomogeneity in the nanofiber sheet; and positioning the at least
one electrode proximate to, and not in direct contact with, the
inhomogeneity in the nanofiber sheet.
[0009] Example 6 includes the subject matter of Example 5, wherein
dividing the nanofiber sheet comprises dividing the nanofiber sheet
into at least a first sub-sheet and a second sub-sheet, wherein the
inhomogeneity is disposed entirely within the first sub-sheet.
[0010] Example 7 includes the subject matter of either of Examples
5 or 6, wherein the inhomogeneity is a tear in the nanofiber
sheet.
[0011] Example 8 includes the subject matter of any of Examples
5-7, wherein the inhomogeneity is a variation in a number of
nanofibers per unit volume of the nanofiber sheet.
[0012] Example 9 includes the subject matter of any of the
preceding Examples, further comprising: spinning a nanofiber yarn
from at least one of two or more sub-sheets; monitoring one or more
of a diameter and an electrical property of the nanofiber yarn
during the spinning; and re-positioning the at least one electrode
proximate to, and not in direct contact with, the nanofiber sheet
in response to the monitored diameter or electrical properties of
the nanofiber yarn, the re-positioning changing a width of the two
or more sub-sheets by relocating the electrical discharge.
[0013] Example 10 includes the subject matter of Example 9, wherein
re-positioning the at least one electrode reduces a variation in
diameter of the nanofiber yarn to less than +/-5% over a length of
1 mm.
[0014] Example 11 includes the subject matter of any of the
preceding Examples, wherein at least one of the two or more
sub-sheets is less than 5 .mu.m in width.
[0015] Example 12 includes the subject matter of Example 11,
further comprising spinning a nanofiber yarn less than 1 .mu.m in
diameter from the sub-sheet less than 5 .mu.m in width.
[0016] Example 13 includes the subject matter of any of Examples
11-12, further comprising simultaneously spinning a separate
nanofiber yarn from each of the at least two or more
sub-sheets.
[0017] Example 14 includes the subject matter of any of the
preceding Examples, wherein the nanofiber sheet is a carbon
nanofiber sheet and wherein carbon nanofibers of the carbon
nanofiber sheet are multiwalled carbon nanofibers having a diameter
of less than 100 nm.
[0018] Example 15 includes the subject matter of any of the
preceding Examples, wherein positioning the at least one electrode
further comprises placing the at least one electrode proximate to,
and not in direct contact with, a major surface of the nanofiber
sheet, wherein the applied voltage generates an electrical arc
between the at least one electrode and the nanofiber sheet, the
electrical arc removing the portion of the nanofiber sheet.
[0019] Example 16 is a method for dividing a nanofiber sheet, the
method comprising configuring a structure to have at least one
salient feature comprising an edge, and at least one reverse
salient feature; contacting the nanofiber sheet with an edge of the
at least one salient feature; and drawing the nanofiber sheet past
the at least one salient feature while maintaining contact
therebetween, the drawing causing the nanofiber sheet to be
dividing into sub-sheets.
[0020] Example 17 includes the subject matter of Example 16,
wherein a width of the at least one salient feature is at least 1
.mu.m.
[0021] Example 18 includes the subject matter of either of Examples
16 or 17, wherein a height of the at least one salient feature is
at least 1 .mu.m.
[0022] Example 19 includes the subject matter of any of Examples
16-18, further comprising identifying an inhomogeneity in the
nanofiber sheet, and wherein dividing the nanofiber sheet comprises
dividing the nanofiber sheet into at least a first sub-sheet and a
second sub-sheet, the inhomogeneity disposed entirely within the
first sub-sheet.
[0023] Example 20 includes the subject matter of Example 19,
wherein the inhomogeneity is a tear in the nanofiber sheet or a
variation in a number of nanofibers per unit volume of the
nanofiber sheet.
[0024] Example 21 includes the subject matter of any of examples
19-20, wherein at least one of the first or second sub-sheets is
less than 5 .mu.m in width.
[0025] Example 22 includes the subject matter of Example 21,
further comprising spinning a nanofiber yarn less than 1 .mu.m in
diameter from the sub-sheet less than 5 .mu.m in width.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] FIG. 1 illustrates an example forest of nanofibers on a
substrate, in an embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates an example reactor used for growing
nanofibers, in an embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a nanofiber sheet that
identities relative dimensions of the sheet and schematically
illustrates nanofibers within the sheet aligned end-to-end in a
plane parallel to a surface of the sheet, in an embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 4 is an image of a nanofiber sheet being laterally
drawn from a nanofiber forest, the nanofibers aligning from
end-to-end as schematically shown in FIG. 3.
[0030] FIGS. 5A to 5C illustrate nanofiber sheets being drawn from
a nanofiber forest in which non-spinnable particles that are
present cause defects in the nanofiber sheets, in embodiments.
[0031] FIG. 6A illustrates a one-electrode electrical discharge
system for dividing a nanofiber sheet into sub-sheets using a
contactless dividing technique, in an embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 6B illustrates a two-electrode electrical discharge
system for dividing a nanofiber sheet into sub-sheets using a
contactless dividing technique, in an embodiment.
[0033] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate plan views of a corona discharge
system dividing a nanofiber sheet into sub-sheets, without physical
contact between an electrode and the nanofiber sheet, in an
embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 8 illustrates altering sizes of electrical discharges
to control sub-sheet width, in an embodiment.
[0035] FIGS. 9A and 9B are a side view and a plan view,
respectively, of a mechanical system for dividing a nanofiber sheet
into sub-sheets, in an embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 10 is a method flow diagram of an example method for
dividing a nanofiber sheet into at least two sub-sheets, in an
embodiment.
[0037] The figures depict various embodiments of the present
disclosure for purposes of illustration only. Numerous variations,
configurations, and other embodiments will be apparent from the
following detailed discussion.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Overview
[0038] Nanofiber sheets drawn from a nanofiber forest can be
inhomogeneous for any of a variety of reasons. For example, due to
variations in the number of nanofibers per unit area of growth
substrate, a density of a nanofiber sheet (both in terms of
nanofibers per unit volume and/or mass per unit volume) can vary
across one or both a width and a length of the sheet. Because a
diameter of a nanofiber yarn spun from a nanofiber sheet is a
function of nanofiber density within the sheet, these density
variations within a sheet can cause diameter variations within a
nanofiber yarn spun from the sheet. In some examples, the diameter
variation can be +/-one micron (1 .mu.m) or more. A variability in
diameter of one or more microns for a nanofiber yarn having a
diameter on the order of tens of microns is a significant
deviation, Diameter variation of a yarn can cause variations in
mechanical properties (e.g., ultimate tensile strength), and
electrical properties (e.g., conductivity), among other properties.
These types of variations can make nanofiber yarns less appealing
as a material for use in applications that strive for consistent or
predictable performance.
[0039] Controlling nanofiber density on a growth substrate during
nanofiber forest growth can be difficult. Similarly, controlling a
density of nanofibers drawn into a nanofiber yarn during the
drawing process can also be difficult.
[0040] Complicating the control of nanofiber density is the
presence of defects within the nanofiber forest. One type of defect
is an impurity that is not drawn into the nanofiber sheet or spun
into the nanofiber yarn. For example, a particle that is not drawn
into a yarn during the drawing process (e.g., a particle that does
not have a longitudinal axis, but rather is more sphere-like or
irregularly shaped or a particle attached to the growth substrate)
can disrupt the drawing of a sheet by causing a sheet to tear or
otherwise fail during drawing.
[0041] While laser-assisted cutting or blade-based cutting of
nanofiber sheets into sub-sheets can be performed, neither of these
techniques are flexible and convenient enough to maneuver around
defects or be adjusted during the drawing process without damaging
the sheet. Nor are laser-assisted cutting or blade-based cutting
generally used to maintain a consistent density of a drawn sheet.
Thus, the applicability of these techniques in maintaining
uniformity of the nanofiber sheet so as to produce a nanofiber yarn
with a uniform diameter (e.g., a diameter that varies less than
+/-5% from a mean value along a length of the nanofiber yarn) is
limited.
[0042] Thus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
disclosure, techniques are described for controlling widths of
nanofiber sheets drawn from a nanofiber forest. In examples, width
of a drawn nanofiber sheet can be controlled by dividing or
sectioning the nanofiber sheet in its as-drawn state into
sub-sheets as the sheet is being drawn. A width of a sub-sheet can
be controlled or selected so as to contain regions of uniform
nanofiber density within a sub-sheet (thereby improving nanofiber
yarn consistency) or to isolate an inhomogeneity (whether a
discontinuity is the sheet (e.g., a tear) or a variation in
density) within a sub-sheet. By isolating the inhomogeneity in a
sub-sheet, the remaining, uniform, sheets can be spun into yarns
that have a consistent diameter. This is more likely to produce a
nanofiber yarn having consistent mechanical and electrical
properties along its entire length. This consistency in diameter,
physical/mechanical properties (e.g., density, tensile strength),
and electrical properties makes nanofiber yarns more easily
integrated into applications that require consistent and/or
predictable properties. In some embodiments, in situ monitoring of
nanofiber yarn and/or nanofiber sheet physical properties (e.g.,
yarn diameter, yarn density, sheet density, sheet width) can be
used to position electrodes that generate an electrical arc and/or
corona used to divide the nanofiber sheet. By moving the arc(s)
and/or corona(s) so as to dynamically change a width of a
sub-sheet, a diameter and/or density of a resulting nanofiber yarn
can be more consistent (e.g., to a variation in either diameter
and/or density of less than 10% (+/-5%) over a length of a yarn).
Furthermore, some of the embodiment techniques described herein do
not require contact between an electrode and the nanofiber sheet
that is being divided into sub-sheets. Rather, the dividing is
accomplished via an electrical arc and/or corona disposed around
one or more electrodes and that bridges a physical separation
between a surface of the electrode and the nanofiber sheet being
divided. Avoiding direct physical contact between an electrode and
the nanofiber sheet has at least two benefits. First, movement of
an electrode in response a feedback system used to maintain and/or
improve consistency of a nanofiber yarn produced from the nanofiber
sub-sheet can be faster because there is no direct physical contact
between an electrode and a sheet and thus no friction to overcome
and no risk of tearing the nanofiber sheet. Second, the power
supplied to the electrode does not have "spikes" (i.e., temporary
surges in power), but rather is more uniform over time. This
reduces power consumption and reduces the risk of unintentional
scorching and/or damage to the nanofiber sheet caused by power
surges.
[0043] Prior to describing these techniques, a. description of
nanofiber forest growth, and nanofiber sheet drawing for
context.
Nanofiber Forests
[0044] As used herein, the term "nanofiber" means a fiber having a
diameter less than 1 .mu.m. While the embodiments herein are
primarily described as fabricated from carbon nanotubes, it will be
appreciated that other carbon allotropes, whether graphene, micron
or nano-scale graphite fibers and/or plates, and even other
compositions of nano-scale fibers such as boron nitride may be
densified using the techniques described below. As used herein, the
terms "nanofiber" and "carbon nanotube" encompass both single
walled carbon nanotubes and/or multi-walled carbon nanotubes in
which carbon atoms are linked together to form a cylindrical
structure. In some embodiments, carbon nanotubes as referenced
herein have between 4 and 10 walls. As used herein, a "nanofiber
sheet" or simply "sheet" refers to a sheet of nanofibers aligned
via a drawing process (as described in PCT Publication No. WO
2007/015710, and incorporated by reference herein in its entirety)
so that a longitudinal axis of a nanofiber of the sheet is parallel
to a major surface of the sheet, rather than perpendicular to the
major surface of the sheet (i.e., in the as-deposited form of the
sheet, often referred to as a "forest"). This is illustrated and
shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, respectively.
[0045] The dimensions of carbon nanotubes can vary greatly
depending on production methods used. For example, the diameter of
a carbon nanotube may be from 0.4 nm to 100 nm and its length may
range from 10 .mu.m to greater than 55.5 cm. Carbon nanotubes are
also capable of having very high aspect ratios (ratio of length to
diameter) with some as high as 132,000,000:1 or more. Given the
wide range of dimensional possibilities, the properties of carbon
nanotubes are highly adjustable, or "tunable." While many
intriguing properties of carbon nanotubes have been identified,
harnessing the properties of carbon nanotubes in practical
applications requires scalable and controllable production methods
that allow the features of the carbon nanotubes to be maintained or
enhanced.
[0046] Due to their unique structure, carbon nanotubes possess
particular mechanical, electrical, chemical, thermal and optical
properties that make them well-suited for certain applications. In
particular, carbon nanotubes exhibit superior electrical
conductivity, high mechanical strength, good thermal stability and
are also hydrophobic, in addition to these properties, carbon
nanotubes may also exhibit useful optical properties. For example,
carbon nanotubes may be used in light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and
photo-detectors to emit or detect light at narrowly selected
wavelengths. Carbon nanotubes may also prove useful for photon
transport and/or phonon transport.
[0047] In accordance with various embodiments of the subject
disclosure, nanofibers (including but not limited to carbon
nanotubes) can be arranged in various configurations, including in
a configuration referred to herein as a "forest." As used herein, a
"forest" of nanofibers or carbon nanotubes refers to an array of
nanofibers having approximately equivalent dimensions that are
arranged substantially parallel to one another on a substrate. FIG.
1 shows an example forest of nanofibers on a substrate. The
substrate may be any shape but in some embodiments the substrate
has a planar surface on which the forest is assembled. As can be
seen in FIG. 1, the nanofibers in the forest may be approximately
equal in height and/or diameter.
[0048] Nanofiber forests as disclosed herein may be relatively
dense. Specifically, the disclosed nanofiber forests may have a
density of at least 1 billion nanofibers/cm.sup.2. In some specific
embodiments, a nanofiber forest as described herein may have a
density of between 10 billion/cm.sup.2 and 30 billion/cm.sup.2. In
other examples, the nanofiber forest as described herein may have a
density in the range of 90 billion nanofibers/cm.sup.2. The forest
may include areas of high density or low density and specific areas
may be void of nanofibers. The nanofibers within a forest may also
exhibit inter-fiber connectivity. For example, neighboring
nanofibers within a nanofiber forest may be attracted to one
another by van der Waals forces. Regardless, a density of
nanofibers within a forest can be increased by applying techniques
described herein.
[0049] Methods of fabricating a nanofiber forest are described in,
for example, PCT No. WO2007/015710, which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.
[0050] Various methods can be used to produce nanofiber precursor
forests. For example, in some embodiments nanofibers may be grown
in a high-temperature furnace, schematically illustrated in FIG. 2.
In some embodiments, catalyst may be deposited on a substrate,
placed in a reactor and then may be exposed to a fuel compound that
is supplied to the reactor. Substrates can withstand temperatures
of greater than 800.degree. C. or even 1000.degree. C. and may be
inert materials. The substrate may comprise stainless steel or
aluminum disposed on an underlying silicon (Si) wafer, although
other ceramic substrates may be used in place of the Si wafer
(e.g., alumina, zirconia, SiO.sub.2, glass ceramics). In examples
where the nanofibers of the precursor forest are carbon nanotubes,
carbon-based compounds, such as acetylene may be used as fuel
compounds. After being introduced to the reactor, the fuel
compound(s) may then begin to accumulate on the catalyst and may
assemble by growing upward from the substrate to form a forest of
nanofibers. The reactor also may include a gas inlet where fuel
compound(s) and carrier gasses may be supplied to the reactor and a
gas outlet where expended fuel compounds and carrier gases may be
released from the reactor. Examples of carrier gases include
hydrogen, argon, and helium. These gases, in particular hydrogen,
may also be introduced to the reactor to facilitate growth of the
nanofiber forest. Additionally, dopants to be incorporated in the
nanofibers may be added to the gas stream.
[0051] In a process used to fabricate a multilayered nanofiber
forest, one nanofiber forest is formed on a substrate followed by
the growth of a second nanofiber forest in contact with the first
nanofiber forest. Multi-layered nanofiber forests can be formed by
numerous suitable methods, such as by forming a first nanofiber
forest on the substrate, depositing catalyst on the first nanofiber
forest and then introducing additional fuel compound to the reactor
to encourage growth of a second nanofiber forest from the catalyst
positioned on the first nanofiber forest. Depending on the growth
methodology applied, the type of catalyst, and the location of the
catalyst, the second nanofiber layer may either grow on top of the
first nanofiber layer or, after refreshing the catalyst, for
example with hydrogen gas, grow directly on the substrate thus
growing under the first nanofiber layer. Regardless, the second
nanofiber forest can be aligned approximately end-to-end with the
nanofibers of the first nanofiber forest although there is a
readily detectable interface between the first and second forest.
Multi-layered nanofiber forests may include any number of forests.
For example, a multi-layered precursor forest may include two,
three, four, five or more forests.
Nanofiber Sheets
[0052] In addition to arrangement in a forest configuration, the
nanofibers of the subject application may also be arranged in a
sheet configuration. As used herein, the term "nanofiber sheet,"
"nanotube sheet," or simply "sheet" refers to an arrangement of
nanofibers where the nanofibers are aligned end to end in a plane.
An illustration of an example nanofiber sheet is shown in FIG. 3
with labels of the dimensions. In some embodiments, the sheet has a
length and/or width that is more than 100 times greater than the
thickness of the sheet. In some embodiments, the length, width or
both, are more than 10.sup.3, 10.sup.6 or 10.sup.9 times greater
than the average thickness of the sheet. A nanofiber sheet can have
a thickness of, for example, between approximately 5 nm and 30
.mu.m and any length and width that are suitable for the intended
application. In some embodiments, a nanofiber sheet may have a
length of between 1 cm and 10 meters and a width between 1 cm and 1
meter. These lengths are provided merely for illustration. The
length and width of a nanofiber sheet are constrained by the
configuration of the manufacturing equipment and not by the
physical or chemical properties of any of the nanotubes, forest, or
nanofiber sheet. For example, continuous processes can produce
sheets of any length. These sheets can be wound onto a roll as they
are produced.
[0053] As can be seen in FIG. 3, the axis in which the nanofibers
are aligned end-to end is referred to as the direction of nanofiber
alignment. In some embodiments, the direction of nanofiber
alignment may be continuous throughout an entire nanofiber sheet.
Nanofibers are not necessarily perfectly parallel to each other and
it is understood that the direction of nanofiber alignment is an
average or general measure of the direction of alignment of the
nanofibers.
[0054] Nanofiber sheets may be assembled using any type of suitable
process capable of producing the sheet. In some example
embodiments, nanofiber sheets may be drawn from a nanofiber forest.
An example of a nanofiber sheet being drawn from a nanofiber forest
is shown in FIG. 4
[0055] As can be seen in FIG. 4, the nanofibers may be drawn
laterally from the forest and then align end-to-end to form a
nanofiber sheet. In embodiments where a nanofiber sheet is drawn
from a nanofiber forest, the dimensions of the forest may be
controlled to form a nanofiber sheet having particular dimensions.
For example, the width of the nanofiber sheet may be approximately
equal to the width of the nanofiber forest from which the sheet was
drawn. Additionally, the length of the sheet can be controlled, for
example, by concluding the draw process when the desired sheet
length has been achieved.
[0056] Nanofiber sheets have many properties that can be exploited
for various applications. For example, nanofiber sheets may have
tunable opacity, high mechanical strength and flexibility, thermal
and electrical conductivity, and may also exhibit hydrophobicity.
Given the high degree of alignment of the nanofibers within a
sheet, a nanofiber sheet may be extremely thin. In some examples, a
nanofiber sheet is on the order of approximately 10 nm thick (as
measured within normal measurement tolerances), rendering it nearly
two-dimensional. In other examples, the thickness of a nanofiber
sheet can be as high as 200 nm or 300 nm. As such, nanofiber sheets
may add minimal additional thickness to a component.
[0057] As with nanofiber forests, the nanofibers in a nanofibers
sheet may be functionalized by a treatment agent by adding chemical
groups or elements to a surface of the nanofibers of the sheet and
that provide a different chemical activity than the nanofibers
alone. Functionalization of a nanofiber sheet can be performed on
previously functionalized nanofibers or can be performed on
previously unfunctionalized nanofibers. Functionalization can be
performed using any of the techniques described herein including,
but not limited to CVD, and various doping techniques.
[0058] Nanofiber sheets, as drawn from a nanofiber forest, may also
have high purity, wherein more than 90%, more than 95% or more than
99% of the weight percent of the nanofiber sheet is attributable to
nanofibers, in some instances. Similarly, the nanofiber sheet may
comprise more than 90%, more than 95%, more than 99% or more than
99.9% by weight of carbon.
Defects in Nanofiber Sheets
[0059] As indicated above, variations in density within a nanofiber
sheet or inclusion of non-spinnable particles can be problematic
when spinning a nanofiber sheet into a nanofiber yarn. FIGS. 5A-5C
illustrate one example of a challenge posed by the inclusion of a
non-spinnable particle when drawing a nanofiber forest.
[0060] FIG. 5A is a plan view illustration 500 of three nanofiber
sheets being drawn from a patterned nanofiber forest disposed on a
substrate. While embodiments described herein are applicable to
patterned and non-patterned forests, the illustration 500 employs a
patterned substrate so as to simultaneously illustrate two
different types of defects in nanofiber sheets caused by the
presence of non-spinnable particles. Examples of patterned forests
and techniques for patterning forests are described in PCT
Publication No. WO 2007/015710, which is incorporated by reference
herein in its entirety.
[0061] The illustration 500 includes a nanofiber forest 504, a
growth substrate 508, nanofiber sheets 512A, 512B, and 512C, and
particles 524A, 524B.
[0062] The nanofiber forest 504 is shown in its as-grown state on
the growth substrate 508. The example nanofiber forest 504 and the
example growth substrate 508 have been described above and need no
further explanation. It will be appreciated that in some examples
the substrate 508 may actually be a secondary substrate, such as an
adhesive substrate, and the nanofiber forest 504 may have been
processed so as to align the nanofibers in a common direction
relative to the secondary substrate, such as those described in PCT
Application No. PCT/US2017/036687, which is incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety.
[0063] As shown, the patterned nanofiber forest 504 is drawn into
three nanofiber sheets 512A, 512B, 512C. The processes for drawing
a nanofiber forest into a nanofiber sheet (or sheets) are described
above, and shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. Nanofiber sheets 512A and 512B
are separated by a gap 516B. Nanofiber sheets 512B and 512C are
separated by a gap 516A. Both the gaps 516A and 516B can be
produced by patterning a substrate or patterning an arrangement of
catalyst on the substrate, in examples.
[0064] As the nanofiber sheets 512A, 512B, 512C are drawn from the
forest 504, a forest-sheet interface 520 gradually moves toward an
opposing edge (not shown) of the substrate in a direction opposite
the sheet drawing direction. Both the movement of the forest-sheet
interface 520 and the sheet drawing direction are indicated by
arrows in FIG. 5A.
[0065] In the illustration 500, the particles 524A, 524B are
disposed within the nanofiber forest 504. In this example, the
particles 524A, 524B are not only within the nanofiber forest 504,
but also fixed relative to the substrate 508. The effect of the
particles 524A, 524B is to disrupt the alignment and ordering of
nanofibers within the drawn nanofiber sheet (e.g., any one or more
of sheets 512A, 512B, 512C). This disruption can be due to the size
and/or shape of the particles 524A, 524B. For example, spherical
(or irregular, spheroidal structures) can cause defects that tear a
nanofiber sheet as the sheet is being drawn. In another example,
large structures, regardless of the shape, can disrupt the
organization of a large number of nanofibers. Other mechanisms for
causing a defect in a nanofiber sheet will be appreciated in light
of the present disclosure.
[0066] Particles that can cause a persistent defect within a
nanofiber sheet, in examples, can have a least one dimension that
is larger than a cross-sectional thickness of the nanofiber forest.
Examples of these particles can include foreign objects disposed on
the growth substrate or even agglomerations of nanofibers that are
not spinnable. For example, some nanofibers may grow in a
disordered group (i.e., not grow in a single layer or not grow
parallel to one another). The disordered orientation of the
individual nanofibers within the group then acts as a particle that
can disrupt the drawing of the nanofibers into the nanofiber
sheet.
[0067] While some nanofiber forests produce sheets that are thick
enough and with sufficient density that the defect, often a tear in
the sheet, can be healed with sufficient drawing (that is, the
nanofiber sheet regains its continuity upon sufficient drawing),
other sheets lack this ability to recover. For example, some
nanofiber sheets lack enough nanofibers (whether due to low sheet
thickness or low density) sufficient to allow the portions of the
sheet separated by a tear to re-form. Thus, these sheets cannot
"heal" the tear. in other examples, the defect caused by the
particle is large enough so that a sheet, regardless of the
nanofiber density within the sheet, is unable to re-form. Much like
a variation in density of a continuous nanofiber sheet, the
variation caused by a discontinuity (e.g., a tear) in a nanofiber
sheet causes variation in the diameter and/or properties of a
nanofiber yarn.
[0068] FIG. 5B continues the example of illustration 500, in which
the nanofiber sheets 512A, 512B, 512C have been drawn to consume
more of the nanofiber forest 504, thus moving the forest-sheet
interface 520 in the direction indicated and opposite the direction
in which the sheets 512A, 512B, 512C are drawn. As shown, the
forest-sheet interface 520 is adjacent to the particles 524A, 524B.
However, the forest has not yet been drawn past the particles 524A,
524B.
[0069] FIG. 5C illustrates two different types of defects caused by
the particles 524A, 524B. In this example, the forest-sheet
interface 520 has moved past the particles 524A, 524B in a
direction opposite the direction in which the nanofiber sheets
512A, 512B, 512C are drawn. As such, the particle 524A causes a
tear 528A to form in the nanofiber sheet 512C. The particle 524B
causes the sheet 512A to break entirely (indicated by arrow 528B).
These defects are consistent with those described above. For
example, particle 524A is either large enough, shaped irregularly
enough, or both, to cause a tear in the nanofiber sheet 512C. At
the same time, the nanofiber sheet 512C is dense enough, wide
enough, or both, that the nanofiber sheet 512C can re-form, thus
"healing" some of the tear 528A.
[0070] The nanofiber sheet 512A however lacks the capability of the
nanofiber sheet 512C. As is shown in FIG. 5C, a width of the
nanofiber sheet 512A is less than a corresponding dimension of the
irregularly shaped particle 524B. For this reason, when the portion
of the forest-sheet interface 520 corresponding to the nanofiber
sheet 512A encounters the particle 524B, the nanofiber sheet 512A
breaks. The discontinuity between the nanofiber sheet 512A and its
corresponding portion of nanofiber forest on an opposite side of
the particle 524B is indicated as discontinuity 528B.
[0071] As described above, both the fracture of a nanofiber sheet
(e.g., nanofiber sheet 512A) and formation of a tear in a nanofiber
sheet (e.g., nanofiber sheet 512C), among other defects not
described but apparent to those skilled in the art, affect the
consistency of nanofiber yarns spun from the nanofiber forest.
Controlling Nanofiber Sheet Width
[0072] To overcome the challenges posed by inhomogeneities in
nanofiber forests and nanofiber sheets, including those described
above, embodiments described herein include various mechanisms for
dividing a nanofiber sheet in its as-drawn form into any number of
sub-sheets. In examples, the embodiments described herein can be
used to maintain a uniform density of nanofibers within a
sub-sheet, confine a defect to within one sub-sheet so that the
remaining sub-sheets can maintain a level of homogeneity that can
produce a consistent nanofiber yarn (e.g. having a consistent and
uniform diameter (+/-5% from a mean value as measured along a
length of the yarn) and/or electrical properties), among other
embodiments. In some examples, systems used to divide a nanofiber
sheet into sub-sheets can be selectively configured so that any
number of nanofiber sub-sheets of any width can be fabricated.
[0073] Techniques of the present disclosure for dividing a
nanofiber sheet include both electrical and mechanical techniques.
Electrical techniques include using electrical current (whether
alternating current AC or direct current DC) between an electrode
and the nanofiber sheet. Mechanical techniques include a razor
blade configured to include salient and reverse salient
portions.
[0074] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate system configurations using two
different types of electrical discharge techniques in
embodiments.
[0075] FIG. 6A schematically illustrates a single electrode system
600 for controlling a nanofiber sheet width using a corona or an
arc generated at a single electrode. In this example, the system
600 includes an electrode 608 and, not shown, a power source
connected to the electrode 608. The nanofiber sheet 604 is shown in
FIG. 6A to provide context for the system 600. Electrical discharge
612 (whether the charged particles of a corona or an arc between
the electrode 608 and the nanofiber sheet 604) is schematically
illustrated emanating from the electrode 608. As indicated above
and as illustrated in FIG. 6A, the electrode 608 does not contact
the nanofiber sheet 604. Rather, electrical discharge 612 (whether
a corona or an electrical arc) bridges a gap between the electrode
608 and the nanofiber sheet 604, removing a portion of the
nanofiber sheet 604 and thus dividing the nanofiber sheet 604 into
sub-sheets.
[0076] The electrode 608 is connected to an electricity source and
an electrical controller (not shown). In one example, the electrode
608 is fabricated from a good electrical conductor having an
electrical conductivity greater than 3.times.10.sup.7 Siemens/meter
at 20.degree. C., such as gold, copper, aluminum, among others. In
another example, the electrode 608 is fabricated from tungsten. In
some embodiments, the electrode is shaped with a pointed tip. A
pointed shape facilitates a high gradient in the electric field
generated at the electrode 608 relative to the surrounding air.
This in turn facilitates formation of a corona around the pointed
tip of the electrode or an electrical arc between the electrode 608
and the nanofiber sheet 604 depending on the current, voltage, and
a composition of an ambient atmosphere. It will be appreciated that
a pointed tip is not required. In the example system 600, the
electrical controller connected to the electrode 608 can be any
controller capable of producing a low current, high voltage
condition associated with the electrode 608. Example currents can
be within any of the following ranges: 0.1 milliAmp (mA) to 1 mA; 1
mA to 5 mA; 1 to 2 mA; to 0.5 mA to 1 mA. Example voltages can be
within any of the following ranges: 50 Volts (V) to 22.0 V; 50 V to
110 V; 50 V to 75 V; 75 V to 110 V. As indicated above, regardless
of the value, the current and voltage supplied to the electrode is
consistent (e.g., within +/-5%) during the dividing of the
nanofiber sheet 604 into sub-sheets. Consistent current and voltage
improves consistency of the width of material removed, which would
otherwise vary widely if the current and/or voltage increased
dramatically (or "spiked") during processing. It will be
appreciated that any variety of combinations of current and
voltage, even those not listed above, can be applied in accordance
with the present disclosure and that the preceding examples are
provided fix illustration only.
[0077] One example type of a control system that can be used to
provide electrical current to the electrode 608 so that the
electrode generates a corona or an electrical arc is that of an
electrical discharge machining system (EDM) controller. Another
example type of control system is a pulse width modulation (PWM)
controller. In some examples, the controller is used to maintain a
consistent application of current and/or voltage to the electrode
608. Generally, whether an EDM controller OF some other electrical
controller is used to supply current to the electrode 608, the
electrical current and voltage supplied to the electrode 608 are
sufficient to form an electrical discharge 612 around the electrode
608 consistent with the supplied voltage and current. As a result
of the electric field gradient around the electrode 608, atoms
and/or molecules are removed from the nanofiber sheet 604 by the
resulting electrical discharge, thus dividing the nanofiber sheet
604 into sub-sheets, as described herein.
[0078] As shown, the nanofiber sheet 604 is disposed proximate to
the electrode 608. The electrode 608 is energized and the nanofiber
sheet 604 is drawn so that atoms and/or molecules are removed from
a portion of the nanofiber sheet 604 proximate to the electrode
608. In this way, the electrode 608 (or multiple electrodes 608)
can be used to divide the nanofiber sheet 604 into one or more
sub-sheets, whether to confine a defect to a sub-sheet or to
control the width of the sub-sheets for some other reason (e.g., to
ultimately control diameter and variation in diameter of a
nanofiber yarn fabricated from a sub-sheet). The nanofiber sheet
604 is connected to an electrically grounded structure, whether a
grounded growth substrate, yarn spinning assembly, or a bobbin used
to collect a nanofiber sub-sheet and/or spun nanofiber yarn.
[0079] In an example, a voltage between the electrode 608 and the
nanofiber sheet 604 can be increased to increase a dimension of the
corona and/or electric arc and thus increase a dimension of the
corresponding portion of nanofibers removed from the nanofiber
sheet 604. In other words, by increasing this voltage, a gap
between adjacent sub-sheets created from the nanofiber sheet 604
can be increased. In examples, this effect can be used to control
the width of a sub-sheet. In some examples, a 1 mA current was
applied to two electrodes 608 (spaced 1 millimeter (mm) apart) and
the voltage was selectively varied to vary a width of the sub-sheet
between the two electrodes 608. At 1 mA and 70 V applied to the two
electrodes 608, the sub-sheet between the electrodes had a width of
900 microns (.mu.m). At 1 mA and 80 V applied to the two electrodes
608, the sub-sheet between the electrodes had a width of 750 .mu.m.
At 1 mA and 95 V applied to the two electrodes 608, the sub-sheet
between the electrodes had a width of 500 .mu.m. In embodiments,
the voltage and current can be adjusted to produce sub-sheets as
narrow as 5 .mu.m. This control allows for a feedback mechanism to
take in-line yarn diameter measurements and actively control the
diameter of the CNT ribbons being spun into yarns. Adjusting a
width of a nanofiber sub-sheet by adjusting electrode voltage is
described below in more detail in the context of FIG. 8.
[0080] In one example, a feedback system can measure yarn diameter
directly or indirectly as the yarn exits a yarn spinner, and adjust
a current and/or voltage supplied to an electrode(s) (or even
adjust a location of the electrode relative to the sheet) to
increase or decrease a width of the sub-sheet entering the yarn
spinner. This adjustment can, in an example, help maintain a
diameter of the nanofiber yarn being spun. In other examples, this
feedback mechanism can be used to intentionally increase or
decrease a diameter of a portion of a nanofiber yarn relative to a
previously spun (or subsequently) spun portion of the nanofiber
yarn. Examples of yarn diameter measurement system that can measure
yarn diameter in situ include optical systems, such as a laser
micrometer, and electrical systems (monitoring a conductance or
resistance by placing one or more probes in electrical contact with
a segment of nanofiber yarn), among others. For example, a density
of a nanofiber sub-sheet can decrease from a first value to a lower
second value (due to a tear defect or merely a low density of
nanofibers within a corresponding area of the nanofiber forest).
This can cause a diameter of nanofiber yarn spun from the nanofiber
sheet to decrease from a first diameter to a smaller second
diameter. To reduce the diameter variability (and variability in
properties), at least one of a corona size and an electrode
location can be adjusted to increase the width of the nanofiber
sub-sheet. By increasing the width of the sub-sheet, the quantity
of nanofibers is increased so as to offset the decrease in
nanofiber density within the sub-sheet. This can restore the
diameter of the nanofiber yarn to the first diameter, thus reducing
diameter variability and property variability within the nanofiber
yarn. The responsiveness of the system can reduce nanofiber yarn
variation to less than +/-5% over sections as short as 1 mm. It
will be appreciated that this type of feedback system is applicable
to any of the embodiments described herein.
[0081] By way of illustration, in one example a nanofiber yarn
diameter D can be estimated and/or calculated according to Equation
1, where D is in centimeters (cm) W is nanofiber sheet width (cm),
SD is nanofiber sheet areal density (grams/cm.sup.2), and .rho. is
nanofiber yarn density (g/cm.sup.3).
D={4*W*((SD/.pi.)/.rho.}.sup.1/2 Equation 1
[0082] In examples, sheet areal density can be between
0.5.times.10.sup.-6 to 10.times.10.sup.-6 g/cm.sup.2 and yarn
density (for yarns not including particles or infiltrated
materials) can be from 0.1 to 1.6 g/cm.sup.3. In one specific
example embodiment, a sheet selected to have a width of 20 mm and a
sheet areal density of 2.8.times.10.sup.-6 g/cm.sup.2 can produce a
yarn having a density of 1.0 g/cm.sup.3. A calculated diameter of
this yarn is 26.7 microns (.mu.m). It will be appreciated that as
the areal density of the sheet or the density of the yarn changes
(as can be detected in situ during production), embodiments of the
present disclosure can be used to adjust the sheet width to a value
other than 20 mm so as to maintain a yarn diameter of 26.7 .mu.m or
otherwise minimize the portion of yarn that deviates from. a
diameter of 26.7 .mu.m. In an analogous example, a sheet selected
to have a width of 1.1 mm and a sheet areal density of
2.4.times.10.sup.-6 g/cm.sup.2 can produce a yarn having a density
of 0.9 g/cm.sup.3. A calculated diameter of this yarn is 6.1
microns (.mu.m). As with the preceding example, embodiments of the
present disclosure can be used to maintain the diameter of the yarn
during yarn production.
[0083] FIG. 6B illustrates a two-electrode arc discharge system 616
for dividing a nanofiber sheet 604 into sub-sheets. In this
example, electrodes 620A and 620B are placed on opposite major
surfaces of the nanofiber sheet 604. The electrical arc 624 between
the electrode 620A and the electrode 620B removes material from the
nanofiber sheet 604. That is, when the nanofiber sheet 604 is drawn
through the arc 624 (and not in direct physical contact with
electrodes 620A, 620B), the arc 624 removes a portion of the
nanofiber sheet 604, thereby dividing the nanofiber sheet 604 into
sub-sheets, as described above. An advantage of the arc discharge
system 616 is that the removal of the portion of the nanofiber
sheet 604, and the size of the portion removed, is independent of
the electrical conductivity of the nanofiber sheet 604. In other
words, the electrical arc 624 forms between electrodes 620A and
620B, the size of which is not influenced by the electrical
properties of the nanofiber sheet.
[0084] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate plan views of the system 600 used
to divide a nanofiber sheet into sub-sheets, in an embodiment. As
shown in FIG. 7A, the view 700 includes a nanofiber forest 704, a
substrate 708, and a nanofiber sheet 720.
[0085] The nanofiber forest 704 and the substrate 708 have been
described above and needs no further description. As shown, the
nanofiber sheet 720 is drawn from the nanofiber forest 704. A
forest-sheet interface 716 moves in a direction opposite that of
the direction in which the nanofiber sheet 720 is drawn. Both of
these directions are indicated in FIG. 7A.
[0086] As the nanofiber sheet 720 is drawn from the forest 704, the
forest-sheet interface 716 moves toward defects 724A, 724B. The
defects 724A, 724B, and the potential effects on the integrity,
consistency, density, and properties of the nanofiber sheet 720
have been described above and need no further description.
[0087] The view 700 also depicts coronas 726A, 726B, 726C, and 726D
that correspond to electrodes (not shown). It will be appreciated
that in other embodiments, a one or two electrode arc discharge
system and method can be applied. Regardless of whether a corona or
an electrical arc is used, and regardless of whether one or two
electrodes are used, the electrical discharge removes material of
the nanofiber sheet 720, thus diving the nanofiber sheet 720 into
nanofiber sub-sheets 728A, 728B, 728C, 728D, and 728E.
[0088] Continuing with the scenario depicted in FIG. 7A, the view
730 in FIG. 7B shows a state in which the nanofiber sheet 720 has
been drawn so that the forest-sheet interface has progressed so as
to pass beyond the defects 724A and 724B, thus introducing defects
732A and 732B into the nanofiber sheet 720. However, in an
embodiment of the present disclosure, the defects 732A and 732B are
confined to sub-sheets 728B and 728D due to the dividing of the
nanofiber sheet 720 into sub-sheets, as described above. In this
way, sub-sheets 728A, 728C, and 728E have an improved consistency
and uniformity, being free from defects. As described above, the
defect-free and more consistent sub-sheets 728A, 728C, and 728E can
be used to produce one or more nanofiber yarns that have a more
uniform or consistent diameter (varying less than +/-5% over a 10
meter length of yarn), density (varying less than +/-5% over a 10
meter length of yarn), and properties. These benefits are achieved
whether the individual sub-sheets 728A, 728C, and 728E are used to
produce corresponding separate nanofiber yarns or whether all of
the sub-sheets 728A, 728C, and 728E are used to produce a single
nanofiber yarn.
[0089] It will also be appreciated that locations of the electrodes
726A-726D (whether used to produce a corona or an electric arc) and
the locations of their corresponding electrical discharges (coronas
in this case) relative to each other and relative to the nanofiber
sheet can be changed. In one example, the size of an arc or corona
can be increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing,
respectively, a gradient of an electric field generated by the
electrode and/or a potential difference between electrodes, as
described above. In another example, a mechanical system can be
used to physically move one or more of electrodes 726A-726D.
Regardless of the method used, changing a size and/or a location of
individual electrodes and their corresponding corona and/or arc
enables widths of one or more sub-sheets to be controlled. This
control can be used to minimize a width of a sub-sheet that
contains a defect, thus minimizing the loss of material associated
with removing a defect. This control can also be used to maintain a
mass of a sub-sheet being spun even as a density of the sub-sheet
varies. Examples of control and feedback systems described above
include laser micrometers, resistance/conductivity sensors, among
others. Thus, even if the sub-sheet itself has a varying density of
nanofibers per unit volume, the width of the nanofiber sub-sheet
can be varied so that a corresponding nanofiber yarn spun from the
sub-sheet is more consistent (e.g., in density, diameter, or in its
properties).
[0090] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment in which sizes of a various
electrical discharges are individually selected so as to show an
application of this parameter as used to control sub-sheet width
around a defect, in an embodiment. The plan view 800 in FIG. 8
includes a nanofiber sheet 804, sub-sheets 806A, 806B, 806C, 806D,
and 806E, a tear defect 808, and electrical discharges 812, 816A,
and 816B associated with corresponding electrodes. As shown, a
radius .alpha. of electrical discharge 812 is significantly greater
than a radius .beta. of either of the electrical discharges 816A or
816B.
[0091] Furthermore, electrical discharge size and electrode
location can be used in cooperation with a defect, such as tear
808, to control sub-sheet size. In the example shown, the
electrodes corresponding to electrical discharges 816A and 816B
have been positioned approximately equal distances from
corresponding edges of the tear 808. In cooperation with the tear
808, these electrical discharges 816A and 816B divide sub-sheets
806C and 806D from the nanofiber sheet 804, thus taking advantage
of the presence of the tear 808 to create new sub-sheets. The
electrical discharges 816A and 816B can be sized (using, voltage
and/or current supplied to the electrode) to fine tune a width of a
sub-sheet.
[0092] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate a mechanical method for
sub-dividing a nanofiber sheet 912 into sub-sheets 916, 920, 924,
and 928. In this example, a mechanical technique is used rather
than the electrical techniques described above. In this example, a
commercially available razor blade, surgical blade, knife, or other
similar blade is machined to include at least one salient feature
and at least one reverse salient feature. In the example shown in
FIG. 9A, a blade 900 is machined to include salient features 904A,
904B, and 904C, which are separated by reverse salient features
908A and 908B. These features can be machined using stamping,
machine tools, EDM, among other techniques. A height .delta. of the
salient feature 904C (equally applicable to salient features 904A
and 904B) indicated in FIG. 9A can be any value greater than a
thickness of a nanofiber sheet. Example dimensions of the height
.delta. are greater than 1 .mu.m, greater than 20 .mu.m, greater
than 50 .mu.m, or even greater than 1 mm. A width of the salient
feature 904C (equally applicable to salient features 904A and 904B)
indicated in FIG. 9A can be any value, from one micron to any value
as wide as the nanofiber sheet to be divided. The narrower the
salient feature, the more likely the nanofiber sheet is to be
divided without loss of material. This conserves nanofiber sheet
material that can then be spun into a nanofiber yarn, or otherwise
used. Using the dividing device and method of FIG. 9 however, does
not have the flexibility of the systems described above in the
context of FIGS. 7 and 8 because the separation between salient
features in the blade 900 is fixed.
[0093] FIG. 9B illustrates the effect on the nanofiber sheet 912 of
the blade 900. As shown in the plan view of FIG. 9B, the nanofiber
sheet 912 has been divided into sub-sheets 916, 920, 924, and 928,
each of which corresponds to a reverse salient feature 908A, 908B
or an area of the nanofiber sheet 912 not contacted by a salient
features 904A, 904B, 904C. Dividing the sub-sheets 916, 920, 924,
and 928 occurs by contacting the nanofiber sheet 912 with the blade
edges of the salient features 904A, 904B, 904C and drawing the
nanofiber sheet 912 past the salient features while maintain
contact there between.
[0094] The above embodiments have a number of advantages, in
addition to removal of defects from a nanofiber sheet and the
production of more consistent nanofiber yarns, as described above.
For example, the embodiment described above can be applied to the
production of nanofiber yarns that are less than 1 .mu.m in
diameter by sub-dividing a nanofiber sheet into sub-sheets sheets
that are from 3 .mu.m to 7 .mu.m wide. In some examples, the
sub-sheets have a width of 5 .mu.m. Because nanofiber sheets are
delicate, sub-dividing nanofiber sheets into micron-scale
sub-sheets is difficult using conventional means.
[0095] Another advantage of embodiments described above is the
capability to simultaneously produce multiple nanofiber yarns. The
nanofiber yarns produced, even sub-micron nanofiber yarns, can be
of the same or different diameters. This can be accomplished by
merely applying one or more embodiments described above and
spinning each of the resulting sub-sheets.
[0096] FIG. 10 illustrates an example method 1000 for using at
least one electrode to modify a width of a nanofiber sheet, which
in some examples is used to control uniformity of a property in a
nanofiber yarn spun from the nanofiber sheet, as indicated
above.
[0097] The method 1000 begins by providing 1004 a nanofiber sheet
having a first major surface and the second major surface. At least
one electrode is positioned 1008 proximate to, and not in direct
contact with, at least one major surface of the nanofiber sheet. A
voltage is applied 1012 at the least one electrode. In response to
the applied 1012 voltage, an electrical discharge is generated 1016
at the at least one electrode. In some examples as described above,
the applied 1012 voltage generates 1017 a corona discharge. In some
examples as described above, the applied 1012 voltage generates
1018 an electrical arc. The electrical arc can be between an
electrode and the nanofiber sheet or between two electrodes
positioned on opposite major surfaces of the nanofiber sheet and
traveling through the nanofiber sheet. Regardless, the electrical
discharge divides 1020 the nanofiber sheet into two or more
sub-sheets by removing a portion of the nanofiber sheet.
[0098] Optionally, an inhomogeneity can be identified 1024 in the
nanofiber sheet and the at least one electrode can be positioned
proximate to the inhomogeneity so as to remove or exclude it from
another portion of the nanofiber sheet. In some examples, a
nanofiber yarn may optionally be spun 1028 from one of the
sub-sheets. A yarn diameter or electrical properties of the
nanofiber yarn may be monitored 1032. In response to the monitored
yarn diameter or electrical property, the at least one electrode
may be repositioned 1036 so as to maintain uniformity (as described
above at or within +/-5%) of the monitored property or
diameter.
Further Considerations
[0099] The foregoing description of the embodiments of the
disclosure has been presented fix the purpose of illustration; it
is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the claims to the
precise forms disclosed. Persons skilled in the relevant art can
appreciate that many modifications and variations are possible in
light of the above disclosure.
[0100] The language used in the specification has been principally
selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not
have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive
subject matter. It is therefore intended that the scope of the
disclosure be limited not by this detailed description, but rather
by any claims that issue on an application based hereon.
Accordingly, the disclosure of the embodiments is intended to be
illustrative, but not limiting, the scope of the invention, which
is set forth in the following claims.
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