Comprehensive Polymer Systems Characterization Core
Abstract
Update and expansion of our biophysical characterization analytical support equipment in our polymer characterization laboratory is critical to enhance the quality of currently funded DoD research, including our program with the AFOSR on thermal processing of silk polymer composite systems, our program with the CDMRP on silk-based field-applicable spray for acute burn wounds, as well as our programs with the ARO on dynamic silk-elastin-like polymers, functional protein-metal composites, and mucin-mimetic biomaterials. To bring our materials characterization laboratory up to date, we are requesting funds for a state-of-the-art particle size analyzer (dynamic light scattering, DLS) for ongoing nanoparticle and related studies, a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) for viscoelastic characterization of polymers, and an ellipsometer (we currently lack this device) for film characterization. Our current particle size analyzer is nearly 20 years old and could perform our previous studies but is now obsolete. We similarly have an older model DMA system (RSA2, TA Instruments) which is more than 15 years old and has recently suffered from several technical issues. This proposal seeks to replace this equipment while adding an ellipsometer to the core facility to provide the necessary equipment to maintain fundamental materials science work on biopolymer and synthetic polymer systems, particularly for our DoD-funded work. These studies include research into thermal processing of bulk silk, crosslinking kinetics, and characterization of combination hydrogels and bioinks for 3D printing. The evolution of these materials would impact medical, robotic, textile, and military applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 05, 2025
- Source ID
- FA95502410062
Entities
People
- David L. Kaplan
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force