Flash Diffusivity Testing Apparatus
Abstract
The objective of the current research instrumentation proposal is to request a “Flash Diffusivity Testing Apparatus” for measuring the thermophysical properties i.e. thermal diffusivity, specific heat and thermal conductivity of hierarchical nanocomposites and advanced materials. The requested instrument can measure thermophysical properties up to 12000 C with an adjustable pulse width in the range of 20-1200 ?s. Measurement can be carried out in different atmospheres, viz. (i) air, (ii) inert gas, (iii) dynamic or static and, (iv) vacuum or reduced pressure conditions. Different kinds of sample holders aid in carrying out measurements for a wide variety of samples such as (a) polymers/ low viscosity melts, (b) resins during curing, (c) pastes, (d) powders, (e) fibers, (f) laminates, and (g) conventional in-plane pellets. It will allow measurement of thermal properties for advanced composite materials reinforced with 1D, 2D and 3D nanomaterials such as Boron nitride nanotube (BNNT), Graphene and Graphene foam (GrF) respectively. The estimation of overall effective thermal properties for varying ratio of matrix to reinforcement will enable design of novel thermally efficient materials. This instrument will specifically enhance the capabilities to understand the science of onedimensional nanofiber (BNNT) reinforced metal matrix composites and three-dimensional graphene foam reinforced polymer nanocomposites which are currently being developed by PI and Co-PI with the support from Office of Naval Research (ONR) and Army Research Office (ARO), respectively. Other major research projects to be benefited include: (i) Nanoparticles reinforced adhesives, and (ii) Splat Sliding mechanics in thermally sprayed structures. Hence, the current proposal on the acquisition of ““Flash Diffusivity Testing Apparatus” will not only enhance the capability of on-going research activities but also helps in creating an infrastructure for future DOD and other agencies applications. The proposed equipment will be beneficial for more than ten (10) faculty members at Florida International University (FIU). The proposed research will also augment the collaboration to develop BNNT based advanced materials by FIU (Hispanicserving institution) and Hampton University (HBCU), both supported by ONR. The proposed instrumentation research will integrate undergraduate and graduate student’s training. FIU is a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) with large minority student population (62% Hispanic, 10% African-American and 18% Females in the College of Engineering and Computing). Integration of the proposed equipment in classroom teaching and research will have a tremendous impact on increasing the number of future students in STEM from underrepresented groups. K-12 students and teachers will also benefit from FIU’s existing dual enrollment and outreach programs such as Engineer on Wheels and Nano Club. The total cost of the requested equipment is estimated to be $145,263
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 23, 2018
- Source ID
- N000141812090
Entities
People
- Arvind Agarwal
Organizations
- Florida International University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy