Triple Detection System for Characterization of Depolymerizable Polymers
Abstract
The Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) is designed to improve the capabilities of U.S. Universities to conduct research and to educate scientists and engineers in selected technical areas of importance to national defense. DURIP funding provides for the acquisition of research equipment and instrumentation for this purpose. The proposed Wyatt triple detection system will allow absolute molecular weight determination of both polymerization and depolymerization products and will also allow for characterizing the absolute molecular weight and branching density of branched polymeric systems. Additionally, the system will allow for characterizing the polymers physical properties, which is needed to gain an understanding of how small molecular changes influence macroscopic responses of materials. The requested triple detection system will provide a number of new capabilities to enhance the PI s current ARO and DTRA funded research efforts including: 1) determining the absolute molecular weight of any polymer without the need for calibration of the system with a known standard as the Wyatt system employs a multi-angle light scattering detector capable of determining the absolute molecular weights of molecules ranging from 200Da to 200kDa. The ability to measure down to such low MW levels will also allow for characterizing depolymerization products as well as determining the depolymerization mechanism. 2) determining the polymers radius of gyration as well as hydrodynamic radius, both of which provide information regarding the physical characteristics of the polymer. This information is necessary for understanding how small molecular level changes in the polymer cause macroscopic responses in materials. 3) characterizing the molecular weight and branching density of branched polymeric systems. The triple detection systems is one of the only accepted methods for routine characterization of branched systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 12, 2017
- Source ID
- W911NF1510351
Entities
People
- Scott T. Phillips
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Pennsylvania State University
- United States Army