Electrospinning and electrospun nanofibers: From academic research to industrial production

Electrospinning is a versatile and rapidly evolving technique that has gained significant attention for its ability to produce nanofibers with unique structures and properties. Over the past few decades, the scope of electrospun nanofibers has expanded from simple polymer fibers to more complex composites and ceramics, enabling a wide range of applications across fields such as environmental protection, biomedical engineering, energy storage, and smart materials. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements, covering material selection, process optimization, and innovative applications. We discuss the unique structural features of electrospun nanofibers, including their tunable diameters, porous architectures, and diverse compositions, which underpin their multifunctionality. Key applications are highlighted in areas including environmental protection and safety, biomedical engineering, energy storage and conversion, and catalysis, as well as emerging uses in flexible electronics, advanced engineering materials, and textiles. Additionally, we review state-of-the-art characterization techniques and discuss the challenges and opportunities involved in scaling up industrial production. Finally, we offer a forward-looking perspective on the future of electrospun nanofibers, emphasizing the need for continued innovation in both academic research and commercial applications.