Polymer
Science
Research
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Doctoral
Program in Biotechnology |
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Polymer
Science is concerned with the theoretical and experimental
study of molecular structure, crystal structure and morphology, and
molecular motion, and the relationship of these to the macroscopic
properties of polymers. Projects include: molecular transitions and
equations of state; crystallization of polymers; morphology of polymers;
high pressure effects; thermal effects; surface modification of polymers;
mechanical properties of polymers; dielectric, piezoelectric,
pyroelectric, and ferroelectric properties of polymers; polymer blends
and composites; ionomers; molecular spectroscopy for determination
of chain orientation and interactions; light scattering for studies
of
solution properties of polymers; and infrared and raman spectroscopy
of polymers.
Other areas of interest include: molecular interpretation of chain dynamics at polymer interfaces; engineering bioerodible copolymers with tailored microstructure for vaccine delivery; understanding diffusion limitations in growing chain polymerization reactions; and fractionation/selective dissolution of lithographically attractive novolaks. New experimental resources include a state-of-the-art, AFM, Fourier transform infra red (FTIR) spectrometer, a dynamic stress rheometer, a UV-Vis spectrophotometer, an automated dissolution apparatus, and a spin coater. The group is also enhancing its computational power by adding two new high performance workstations this year. Membrane science research further seeks to characterize and develop polymer microstates with superior membrane retention and selection properties for industrial and biomedical applications. Projects include: analysis of molecular transport in synthetic polymers; genetic control of metabolic regulation by cell-membrane-permeating chemical messengers; design of hybrid membrane-based artificial organs; and electrically controlled membrane separations.
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