The key objectives of the proposed research are to:
(i) Demonstrate the formation of polymer/inorganic as well as polymer/metal nanoparticle composite materials that have nanoparticles dispersed in a controlled way throughout the polymer matrix. This will be accomplished by the in situ precipitation, incorporation or electrodeposition of nanoparticles within a self-assembled bicontinuous oil/water system stabilized by surfactants. Synthesis will be conducted under both static as well as shearing conditions, leading to changes in the morphology and spatial order of the nanoparticles.
(ii) Explore the mechanical (compression and tensile strength, fracture toughness) and thermal (thermal conductivity, diffusivity) properties of these composite materials. These properties are directly related to transportation applications, as these composites could be used in cars and in buildings.
Intermodal
Nanostructured materials, where one or more constituent has at least one dimension of less than 100nm, have the potential of displaying functionalities and properties that are not possible in bulk materials. These anomalous properties are related to the large specific surface area available for nanoparticles as well changes in the electron wave function because of their size. In this research, a ‘bottom-up’ approach using molecular and aggregate self- assembly, microemulsion precipitation, in situ dispersion of nanoparticles, polymerization and densification are proposed to create new materials for applications in the transportation industry. The key advantage of the technique proposed is the in situ precipitation of nanoparticles throughout desired locations, overcoming the major problem of nanoparticle aggregation that plagues other techniques. Templated materials synthesis will be conducted under static conditions as well as under shear. The latter produce well-aligned microstructures, which can be exploited to make highly anisotropic materials. The initial goals include high fracture toughness, lightweight ceramic/polymer and metal/polymer composites for automobile windshields and replacement of metallic parts. We will then expand this work to the area of conductive (antistatic) and magnetically sensitive (for actuators) composite materials.
(i)Characterize gels using direct and reciprocal space imaging
(ii)Use surfactant aggregates as templates for controlling nanoscale architecture
(iii)Mechanical characterization
(i)Characterization of surfactant aggregates - 12/04
(ii)Materials synthesis - 3/05
(iii)Mechanical characterization - 7/05
$116,790.01 ($116,790.00 Yearly)
Jayashri Sarkar, M.S. student
The graduate student working on this project will develop expertise in synthesis, cryogenic transmission electron microscopy, light scattering and Small Angle Neutron Scattering.
None
FFDI technique will go through invention disclosure.
The PI will be offering a new course in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology for seniors and beginning graduate students, and making presentations at local high schools. This course will draw heavily upon the expertise gained in this project. In addition, all technology that can be potentially commercialized will be protected by filing for patents, and followed up with licensing to interested commercial parties.
New, high strength materials with unique properties that can be used in cars and in buildings.
Nanostructured Materials, Imaging