Electrospinning of polyetheretherketone-based homopolymers and block copolymers

Electrospinning involves the fabrication of ultrafine fibers, typically ranging in diameter from nanometers to micrometers. This process entails applying a high voltage to a polymer solution or melt, resulting in the production of fibers that can be collected on a designated surface. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a semicrystalline linear polycyclic aromatic polymer with high thermal stability. It is a high-performance thermoplastic known for its mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance. The rigid radiolucency, stable physicochemical properties, and biocompatibility of electrospun PEEK homopolymer fibers make them suitable reinforcements in composite materials, medical sutures, removable prosthetics, vertebral surgery, orthopedics, and scaffolds for tissue engineering. PEEK homopolymers offer a wide range of advantages; however, they have a high melting temperature, high viscosity in the molten state, and a low glass transition temperature. Blending PEEK with other polymers and the formation of block copolymers introduces an additional set of functionalities by combining the properties of PEEK and other polymers. PEEK block copolymers can be electrospun with tailored properties and diverse morphologies, resulting in enhanced processability and compatibility for broad applications, including medical implants, filtration membranes, and reinforcing materials. This chapter discusses the principles and parameters of electrospinning, the factors responsible for the electrospinning of PEEK-based homopolymers and block copolymers, issues such as solubility, spinnability, and related costs, and possible solutions for overcoming these issues. Various applications of electrospun PEEK homopolymers and block copolymers are also discussed in this chapter.