Using non-thermodynamic mechanisms to create tailored morphologies in polymer nanocomposites

ORAL

Abstract

A variety of non-thermodynamic approaches for both dispersion of nanoparticles (NPs) and the creation of organized, NP-rich phases in a polymer template has been investigated. To facilitate materials development, we have focused our preliminary efforts on commodity materials including colloidal silica and a poly(styrene-b-ethylenebutylene-b-styrene) copolymer (SEBS), processed using twin-screw extrusion and mineral oil as a solvent/diluents. Guidance and a theoretical framework is provided using a field-theoretic approach that combines the self-assembly behavior of the block copolymer matrix, the effects of solvent, and the effect of ligand-functionalized NP miscibility on morphology. The morphological behavior of these materials will be compared with the model predictions, as will the effectiveness of the non-thermodynamic mechanisms for creating controlled, tailored morphologies.

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Authors

  • Rick Beyer

    • Army Research Laboratory
    • Army Research Laboratory, Materials Division, APG, MD

  • Kristoffer Stokes

    • Army Research Laboratory
    • Army Research Laboratory, Materials Division, APG, MD

  • Mike Berg

    • Army Research Laboratory, Materials Division, APG, MD

  • Randy Mrozek

    • Army Research Laboratory, Materials Division, APG, MD

  • Joseph Lenhart

    • Army Research Laboratory, Materials Division, APG, MD

  • T.L. Chantawansri

    • U.S. Army Research, RDRL-WMM-A
    • Army Research Laboratory, Materials Division, APG, MD
    • U.S. Army Research Lab, RDRL-WMM-A

  • Jan Andzelm

    • Army Research Laboratory, Materials Division, APG, MD