Micro-Computed Tomography (Micro-CT) for Non-destructive Evaluation of Advanced Materials and Devices for Defense Applications
Abstract
This proposal is for the purchase of a Micro-Computed Tomography (micro-CT) for the University of Houston (UH). Micro-CT is a Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) instrument that provides 3D images of the entire volume of a material to reveal internal structure, density variation, changes in crystallographic orientation, shape deformation, presence of voids, cracks and inclusions at a resolution of 400 nm. It is far superior to conventional microscopy techniquesin terms of zero damage or no alteration to the structure of the object being studied. Micro-CT will be invaluable to several projects at UH that are of interest to the DoD.1. Bio-Inspired Smart Thermal Sensors (BTS) (funded by AFOSR)Micro-CT will enable fabrication of uniform Boron Nitride Nanosheets (BNNS) with high heat dissipation capacity for use in heat management of high-performance electronics.2. Integration of Thin-Film Flexible Batteries into Tactical Shelters (funded by ARL) Micro-CT offers unparalleled advantages for investigating internal material structures in the battery after charge and discharge cycling and to identify failure mechanisms which will help optimize the battery performance and robustness.3. Magnetic Slippery Anti-Biofouling Surfaces (funded by ONR)Development of a new form of durable anti-biofouling coatings by creating stress-localized surfaces with minimal adhesion to solids will be enabled by micro-CT.4. Cephalopod-Inspired Camouflage Skins: Adaptive Color Changing, Pattern Tuning and Texture Morphing (funded by ONR) Dynamic study of the internal fractures and their spatial distributions inside stretchable elastic synthetic skin by micro-CT during stretching will help assure robust performance.5. Novel Polymer Grafted Nanoparticle Brush Hybrids as Ultra-Strong and Ultra-Tough Nanocomposites Coating Materials (selected for ONR subcontract award)Micro-CT will be used to elucidate the detailed 3D microstructures of polymer grafted nanoparticles (PGNPs) brush coatings to develop ultra-strong and ultra-tough materials.6. Characterization of Superconducting Coils for High-Field Magnets, Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage (SMES) and Electric MachinesMicro-CT will be a highly effective Quality Control tool to identify and fix defects inmanufacturing of superconductor coils for mine-sweeping magnets, Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage (SMES) systems, high-power density generators and motors.7. Optimization of Solid-State Batteries for Vehicular ApplicationsUnprecedented details of the evolution of electrode microstructure and interfaces from micro-CT will lead to improved cycle life of high-performance, safe solid-state batteries.8. AMERICA-MADE: Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Innovative CurriculumAccentuating Multidisciplinary- and Diversity-based Education (pending at ONR)The micro-CT will be a key research education tool for QA/QC methods for manymanufacturing processes including roll-to-roll manufacturing, flexible electronicsmanufacturing and additive manufacturing for a wide range of materials semiconductors, ceramics, metals and composites.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Oct 19, 2020
- Source ID
- N000142012866
Entities
People
- Venkat Selvamanickam
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Houston System