(DURIP) RHEOMETER AND ACCESSORIES FOR CHARACTERIZATION OF SOFT MATERIALS
Abstract
A TA Instruments Discovery Hybrid Rheometer (DHR) and accessories are requested to support DoD-relevant research on soft materials. Rheological equipment is necessary to maintain fundamental materials science work on biopolymer and synthetic polymer systems. Examination of mechanical properties is critical in understanding these materials. Rheology involves sensitive techniques that determine response to applied stress or strain on fluids. These measurements give insight into fundamental molecular interactions which facilitates design of application-specific materials. Our current rheometer possessed the capability to perform our previous studies but has transitioned to obsolescence. While an array of rheometers may provide basic function, there are several advantages to the TA Instruments DHR. The DHR employs industry-leading, nearfrictionless magnetic thrust bearings and force rebalance transducer (FRT) technology. These features provide superior sensitivity while eliminating artifacts and a broader range of dynamic response. This is particularly important in the analysis of soft hydrogel systems. Given the sophisticated nature of the rheometer, the addition of accessories is a cost-effective means of significantly expanding capabilities. Temperature control and submersion accessories allow the investigation of material properties at application-relevant conditions with a range of -40 oC to 200 oC. In addition to environmental control, stimuli such as UV-curing, small amplitude oscillatory displacements, and-or electrical signals provide information on triggered transitions. Analysis accessories including a camera, microscope, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) tools further enhance the DHR’s appeal. The equipment will primarily be used in the investigation of viscoelastic properties of protein-based materials. Studies include AFOSR-funded research into thermal processing of bulk silk, crosslinking kinetics, and characterization of combination hydrogels and bioinks for 3D printing. Evolution of these materials would impact medical, robotic, textile, and military applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2023
- Source ID
- FA95502110172
Entities
People
- David L. Kaplan
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Tufts University
- United States Air Force