Structure, Morphology, Property Relationships in Polyisobutylene-Based Triphasic Block Copolymers Containing Hydrophilic/Functional Block Elements
Abstract
The proposed research seeks to develop polyisobutylene (PIB)-based block copolymers and terpolymers containing hydrophilic blocks and probe the relative importance of composition and architecture on the observed morphology and barrier/moisture transmission properties. If successful, this work will render knowledge regarding specific compositions and architectures that maximize moisture transmission while maintain fog barrier properties which may have implications for next-generation barrier technologies. To achieve the aforementioned objective, the Pl will develop new synthetic techniques to enable varying architectures of polystyrene-polyisobutylene-polystyrene block polymers with an additional hydrophilic block comprised of either poly( acrylic acid), poly (ethylene oxide), or poly (ethylene amine). The resultant materials will then be characterized to ascertain the roles of composition and architecture in determining morphology and barrier/moisture transmission properties. Nuclear magnetic resonance will be employed for characterizing the structures of synthesized initiators, intermediate blocks, and final terpolymers and size exclusion chromatography to measure absolute molecular weights of the polymers. Thin films of the resultant block copolymers and terpolymers will be prepared by spin coating onto silicon wafers, and the films will be characterized via transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy for morphology data and differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis for thermal characterization. Water absorption by weight will be measured by submerging sections of the polymer thin films in deionized water over a number of days and measuring their change in mass. Water permeation through films will be performed using the vapor permeation cup method. Further barrier/moisture transmission studies will be carried out by Natick Soldier RDEC.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 12, 2017
- Source ID
- W911NF1610060
Entities
People
- Robson Storey
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Southern Mississippi