Preparation of water-stable submicron fibers from aqueous latex dispersion of water-insoluble polymers by electrospinning

Submicron polystyrene (PS) fibers were prepared by electrospinning of an aqueous dispersion of PS latex and a small amount of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and subsequent extraction by water. Depending on particle size, surfactant, ratio of PS:PVA, and applied voltage fibers of different morphology and water stability were obtained. Analysis of latex fibers by TEM revealed hexagonal packaging of particles within the fibers.