Continuous self-crimped micro-nanofiber via one-step electrospinning

•A self-crimp forming method was raised by a conventional electrospinning system.•The theoretical model of multiple forces was established for the forming mechanism of crimp.•The diameter size, dielectric constant, electrical conductivity and the gap width are the main factors of crimp.•The self-crimped PS, PAN and PCL micro-nanofibers were prepared on wool substrate.•The efficiency of crimping method was verified by mathematical simulation and experimental results.