Engineering Robust Nanocomposite Networks

Abstract

In this grant period we were able to make significant advances in our understanding of a number of issues related to the processing and proper ties of nanocomposite networks. We showed that a non-Brownian suspension of micron scale rods exhibits reversible shear-driven formation of disordered aggregates resulting in dramatic viscosity enhancement at low shear rates. We also developed a new technique, Boundary Stress Microscopy, to quantify the non-uniform surface stresses in sheared collagen gels. In our collaborations with other AFOSR supported research, we were able to show that native silk solutions can for fibers directly as a result of applied shear, that silk e-gels show remarkable elasticity and work hardening, and that the luminous mucous secreted by the marine worm Chaetopterus sp. behaves rheologically as a yield stress gel.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 16, 2014
Accession Number
ADA616244

Entities

People

  • Jeffrey Urbach

Organizations

  • Georgetown University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Boundaries
  • Chemistry
  • Collagen
  • Composite Materials
  • Confocal Microscopy
  • Elastic Properties
  • Engineering
  • Materials
  • Mechanics
  • Microscopy
  • Modulus Of Elasticity
  • Nanocomposites
  • Shear Modulus
  • Stiffness
  • Three Dimensional
  • Viscosity

Readers

  • Fluid Dynamics.
  • Nanocomposite Materials Science
  • Plasma Physics / Magnetohydrodynamics