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CAREER: Multi-functional Particle Assemblies in Polymer Nanocomposites Pinar Akcora, Stevens Institute of Technology, DMR 1048865. Styrene.
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CAREER: Multi-functional Particle Assemblies in Polymer NanocompositesPinar Akcora, Stevens Institute of Technology, DMR 1048865 Styrene Polymer-magnetic particle hybrids feature potential applications in microelectronics, biotechnology and sensing. Controlling particle organization is essential for functional properties. A new self-assembly route for magnetic nanoparticles in polymers: Sulfonated Styrene HOOC Addition of ionic groups on grafted chains: RAFT Synthesis of PS-b-PSS block copolymer with low sulfonated level (3.0%) PS-PSS block Sulfonation fraction ~17% PS block : 106kDa Overall of block copolymer: 130kDa Size distribution of block copolymer ionomer Oriented nanostructures: Strings of polymer grafted magnetic nanoparticles can be aligned under large shear deformation Single PS chain Ionic cluster
CAREER: Multi-functional Particle Assemblies in Polymer NanocompositesPinar Akcora, Stevens Institute of Technology, DMR 1048865 REU students (from Stevens, U Maryland) & 2 teachers from Morristown High School (summer 2012) • Course proposal for “Nanotechnology 101” for Morristown High School is developed with teachers. • Designing innovative experimental learning modules on hydrogels, light-matter interaction, ionic conductivity and hydrophilic/hydrophobic surfaces. • MRS Chapter is initiated at Stevens. Akcora is serving as chapter advisor. • 2 Presentations at APS National Meeting’12 in Boston. • Akcora is chairing Networks & Gels session at AICHE’12. • Invited talk at the Molecular Interfaces in Chemistry division of NRL in Feb’12. • Poster presentation at ASEE Chemical Engineering Summer School on “Projects in a Polymer Course for Interactive Learning”, July’12. REUs working in Akcora’s lab Matthew Black (senior), Thomas Cunnigham (sophomore) working with rheometer Javier Parra (junior) working on copolymer synthesis