(DURIP-20)ACQUISITION OF BROADBAND DIELECTRIC SPECTROMETER FOR CHARACTERIZING DYNAMICS IN IONIC SOFT MATERIALS
Abstract
This proposal requests funding for acquisition of a broadband dielectric spectrometer at the University of Pittsburgh. Broadband dielectric spectroscopy is a powerful technique for measuring the timescales of motion of molecules and charged particles in a wide range of polymers and soft materials. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh plan to use this instrument to study (1) the dynamics of molecules and ions in polymers in which ions are directly bound to the polymer chains, (2) dynamics of carbon dioxide in membranes for carbon capture, (3) ion mobilities in materials for low-power electronics, (4) conductivities in ion-containing polymers for electroadhesive laminates, and (5) electrical responses of self-assembled piezoelectric materials that efficiently interconvert electrical and mechanical energy. These research programs will drive both fundamental advances in soft-matter research at the University of Pittsburgh, and further applications related to Department of Defense research thrusts in energy storage, electronic materials, and mechanical materials, among others. The instrument is expected to directly contribute to the research activities of many graduate and undergraduate researchers, and will also be incorporated into teaching labs at the University of Pittsburgh to extend its impact in undergraduate education. To extend the impact of the instrument beyond the University of Pittsburgh, it will also be made available to researchers throughout the greater Pittsburgh area, promoting advances in soft matter research throughout western Pennsylvania.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2021
- Source ID
- FA95502010403
Entities
People
- Jennifer E Laaser
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Pittsburgh