Advanced microcalorimeter for thermodynamic and kinetic analyses of materials
Abstract
Microcalorimetry is a powerful technique that enables direct measurement of thermodynamic properties, including heat capacities of materials and enthalpies of their transitions, and is applicable to the study of chemical reactions, phase transitions such as melting and freezing, crystallization of polymers, and much more. Through highly sensitive measurements, more nuanced thermodynamic transitions and processes can be investigated, such as emulsion formation/breaking, structuring in liquid phases, and chemical decomposition reactions at interfaces. Accurately quantifying the thermodynamic properties of materials and material interactions is necessary to be able to design, develop, and utilize advanced material systems of broad interest to the Department of Defense (DoD), such as mechanical and electrochemical energy storage materials, warfare toxin adsorption materials, gas hydrates, novel heat transfer fluids, and ionic liquids. Examples of how these materials can be used include bio-mechanical motors, batteries, gas masks, fuel sources, non-flammable electronics, and energy-dense heating and cooling fluids for buildings and infrastructure. A micro DSC 7 evo with high pressure and custom mixing options by Setaram is requested in this proposal, a highly advanced instrument that is able to measure the thermodynamic properties of materials as a function of temperature, pressure and mixing. The proposed instrument will build upon a high-pressure mixing prototype recently reported by the teamÕs French collaborators. Its 3-D heat flow design yields unprecedented accuracy, while the ability to simultaneously mix and control pressure are capabilities that are only now emerging in calorimetry. This instrument will enable researchers at The City College of New York (CCNY) to perform novel research into the thermodynamic phase transitions and processes of advanced materials of high interest to the DoD. Microcalorimetry techniques are cross-cutting across virtually all STEM disciplines, making access to the technique transformative to CCNYÕs science and engineering activities. Researchers from chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, chemistry, physics and biology will utilize the instrument. In addition to research, the instrument will enhance STEM education. Because enthalpy and heat capacity are fundamental thermodynamic properties that can be difficult for a student in the classroom to grasp, results from the work will be incorporated into the thermodynamics classes for all engineering as well as general and physical chemistry classes. Students will also be given tours of the facilities and shown how the data they are accustomed to finding in textbooks and tables can be measured, shedding light on the abstract nature of thermodynamics. Outreach activities will also be expanded or leveraged, including DoD programs for undergraduates and high school students, using the new instrument to illustrate thermodynamics in an exciting way.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 25, 2021
- Source ID
- W911NF2110205
Entities
People
- Elizabeth J. Biddinger
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- City University of New York
- Office of the Secretary of Defense