Exploration of Protein-Specific Physical and Electrical Properties for the optimization of Electrohydrodynamic Jetting

Abstract

The process which the Lahann Lab uses to synthesize nanoparticles is known as Electrohydrodynamic Jetting (EDHJ). It is done by spraying/discharging a protein solution onto a metal pan/sheet. This process is driven by the charge difference of a positively charged syringe needle (that holds solution) and a negatively grounded base containing a metal sheet. The stability of this process is dictated by processes inputs as well as the properties of the jetting solutions and is physically dictated by the size and shape of the Taylor cone. The Taylor Cone is the interface at while the solution is leaving the needle. To ensure jetting is occurring correctly we vary the voltage difference until the Taylor cone appears as a stable and conical shape, however this is done based purely on human observation and not any previously explored or optimized parameters. The purpose of this project will be to create a basis for the parameter input ranges and solution properties that result in a stable Taylor cone and thus result in a successful jetting process. To do this we plan to explore the effects physical and electrical properties, such as viscosity, surface tension, permittivity, and conductivity, of commonly used protein solutions such as Human Serum Albumin on Taylor Cone stability and potentially how these impact critical aspects of protein nanoparticles such as size and morphology.