Cellulose Nanocrystal One-Component Composites
Abstract
This proposal is focused on the design, synthesis and characterization of a new class of multifunctional one-component nanocomposites (OCNs) formed from hairy nanorods (HNRs). The HNRs targeted in this proposal are based on polymer-grafted cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). CNCs are highly crystalline rod-like nanoparticles that can be isolated from a variety of renewable cellulosic biomaterials, such a cotton or wood. Since the polymer (matrix) is covalently attached to the rod-like nanoparticles, these materials do not suffer from issues common to two-component nanocomposites, such as phase separation an embrittlement, and offer exceptionally homogeneous nanoparticle dispersion. A range of chemistries that have already been developed in the PIs labs will be employed to graft selected polymers from the CNC surface with the goal to access various novel materials that will offer unique property profiles. Specifically, HNRs will be targeted that have grafted (1) homopolymers or statistical copolymers, (2) block copolymers, (3) selective polymer coverage on different crystal faces of the CNCs and (3) polymers with dynamic bond functionalized chain-ends. Investigations of the first and third class of OCNs will focus on the how polymer functionalization of the CNC can be used to access high strength materials and thermotropic liquid crystalline systems. In addition, the transport characteristics of hydrophilic/hydrophobic block copolymer grafted CNCs will also be investigated in potential membrane applications. Finally, polymer chain-end functionalized HNRs will be used to form dynamic cross-linked networks designed to access a range of multifunctional materials that exhibit, in addition to attractive mechanical property profiles, advanced functionalities such as healability, shape-memory behavior, sensing capabilities, and mechanical adaptability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 14, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1810287
Entities
People
- Stuart J. Rowan
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Chicago