Multifunctional Nanocomposite Structures via Layer-by-Layer Assembly Process
Abstract
Current report is generated under Phase I STTR award on topic AF09-BT36. The overall goal of this project is to achieve large scale high-throughput manufacturing of multifunctional nanocomposites, which are comparable in physical characteristics to the standard aerospace composites, based on layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly process. To achieve this main objective, we proposed to: (1) construct and manufacture a new and fast LBL deposition machine (2) Realize exponential growth of LBL films with polyurethanes (PUs); (3) evaluate mechanical properties of the produced films; (4) manufacture large scale laminates of the free-standing films by consolidation. Using the new LBL deposition machine, dubbed 'Turbo LBL'. the deposition process was accelerated by ca. 100 times compared to traditional LBL deposition systems. The Turbo LBL system is compatible with a variety of nanomaterials and polyelectrolyte solutions which are typically used in traditional LBL assembly process. We demonstrated production of 10" x 40" size free standing LBL sheets at unprecedented rates, unattainable by conventional dip-dry LBL methods. Large size laminates of the free-standing LBL sheets made from graphene oxide (GO) and polyurethane (PU) polymers were fabricated. Mechanical property testing of the laminate samples indicated high extensibilities reaching 200%, and an overall excellent toughness. These promising results lay foundation for further optimization and their scale up manufacturing in Phase II.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 14, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA539381
Entities
People
- Kelechi C. Anyaogu
- Nicholas A. Kotov