High-strength electrospun polydimethylsiloxane/polytetrafluoroethylene hybrid membranes with stable and controllable coral-like structures

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) electrospun membranes have high specific areas, large porosities, and tunable structures. However, the fact that they are fragile and easily broken severely restricts their wide applicability. Using a coaxial electrospinning technique, we created a high-strength electrospun membrane with a stable coral-like microscale structure. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polyethylene oxide (PEO), and PTFE were employed as experimental materials. In addition, the microstructures and characteristics of these membranes could be easily manipulated by changing the electrospinning settings. Compared to the original properties of electrospun PTFE mats, the incorporation of PDMS into PTFE significantly improved mechanical performance. Young's modulus of the PDMS/PTFE membrane could be enhanced as much as 31.11 times. The as-prepared PDMS/PTFE membranes were hydrophobic. The excellent functionalities make this novel composite a well-qualified candidate for many cutting-edge applications.