Overview
The core research programs are geared to addressing critical needs for the development of cellulose nanocomposites and sensors that are useful for industrial applications. The interdisplinary group of researchers provides a unique combination of expertise, in cellulose, chemistry, polymers, modeling, composites, mechanics, biomaterial engineering, metrology, etc. The programs are complimentary in that research goals in one program can be applied to address critical needs in the other programs.
-
Nanocellulose Technology
This program considers cellulose nanoparticles (CN) as a fundamental particle or "building block" that can be used for the development of advanced composites: reinforcement phase in polymer matrix composites, a matrix polymer modifier, and network structures. Ongoing research covers several theme areas:
- Metrology (imaging, surface chemistry, properties, etc)
- Surface Functionalization (inorganic surface coatings)
- Cellulose Nanocomposites (neat films, composite films and fibers)
- Environmental Impact and Health Risks
-
Predictive Modeling
Multi-scale modeling (molecular, meso, and macro scales) specific for cellulose based materials are being developed and applied to investigate several structure-property aspects of cellulose nanoparticles and their resulting composites. We foresee that an experimentally validated simulation framework for nanocomposites will play a key role in designing and optimizing the next-generation of cellulose nanoparticle composites. Ongoing research covers several theme areas:
- Cellulose Nanoparticle Structure
- Nanomechanics of Cellulose Nanocrystals
- Multi-Scale Modeling of Cellulose Composites
-
Sensor Technology
In the forest products industry there is a wide range of sensor applications for product performance monitoring. There is a push for real time data acquisition for a variety of responses: stress, temperature, moisture content, relative humidity, emissions, sound, and chemistry. Likewise, with the push towards products with multifunctional capabilities, segments of the forest products industry would benefit by having the ability to incorporate nanosized or micron sized sensors into the product while not affecting the integrity of the original function of the product. The typical example is the incorporation of sensors within paper used for food packaging, which detect food spoilage, toxic chemicals, temperature or structural integrity of the package itself. Sensing technologies that help us understand nanoscale interactions are also greatly needed. There are several projects that are being considered at Purdue, including:
- Non-invasive and non-obtrusive Sensors
- Dual Function Sensors
- Food Packaging Applications
- Technology Impact Assessment