Polymer Research and Development
Polymer and composites research at the Institute encompasses a wide range of activities related to the synthesis, characterization, processing, and properties evaluation of polymeric materials and composites. The past year has seen continued development of controlled release biocidal films and metal oxide nanoparticle-polymer composites for broad consumer product applications. Films with unique electro-optical and sensing properties have been refined for the commercial and defense markets, and composite synthesis and processing research has concentrated on the fabrication of novel heat- resistant, high-strength, fiber-reinforced polymers that can be molded or machined for a variety of applications.
Films and powders that release chlorine dioxide in a controlled fashion have been developed by the Institute and are being commercialized by Bernard Technologies of Chicago, Illinois. Chlorine dioxide is a powerful biocide that can kill fungus, bacteria, and viruses at levels of 0.1 to 1 part per million in contact times of a few minutes. In laboratory trials, the biocide was released over periods of hours to a week in a range of formulations and was active against molds growing on paper products and E. coli infected meat products. Near-term markets for the chlorine dioxide biocide include the consumer household, agriculture, and consumer packaging industries. Disease transmission control, medical devices, and self-sterilizing packaging are longer term market goals.
Institute scientists have developed a prototype nitric oxide sensor for the Pipeline and Compressor Research Council. Developed for continuous emissions monitoring for large integral engines and compressors, the sensor also holds promise for use in the automotive industry. Using microlithographic techniques, a multi-electrode array is deposited onto a planar oriented thin oxide film, allowing the sensor to be mass produced. Thin-film miniaturized sensors of this type permit fast response and high redundancy and/or selectivity for detection of specific gases. The detector is configured to be specific for nitric oxide in the presence of other gases. A joint development agreement has been initiated with a major sensor producer.
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Transparent tantalum-oxide loaded acrylate composites developed in conjunction with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio are potentially useful for dental and optical applications because of their physical strength, clarity, and X-ray opacity. |
An Institute-developed process for the non-aqueous synthesis of oxide nanoparticles has been employed to make composites for long-lasting dental applications. The transparent, glassy restorative can be made opaque, to match tooth color, by addition of a particulate. To extend filling life, an effort is being made to synthesize composites that have zero polymerization shrinkage. X-ray absorption can be adjusted by the appropriate ratio of tantalum oxide and silica particle content, to provide a clear distinction between restorative polymer and tooth surface.
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An 8-inch thick, 18-inch square block of HIBOXJ woven fiberglass composite, shown after sectioning, was fabricated by compression-molding of 258 plies. HIBOXJ has a load-bearing capacity comparable to steel, but weighs 3.5 times less, which makes it suitable for aircraft, high-speed rail, offshore oil production, and transportation infrastructure applications. Machinable and temperature-resistant, the composite has proven especially adaptable to the resin transfer molding process in joint work with a major aircraft manufacturer. |
Polymer scientists at SwRI have modified HIBOXTM, a high-strength, high-service temperature, low-flammability thermoset copolymer, to produce a novel resin for use in specific, demanding composite applications. Institute research and development programs with HIBOXTM-carbon fiber composites include applications in subsonic and supersonic aircraft, surface and marine transportation, and lightweight piping and construction materials for the offshore oil industry.
| Copyright© 1995 by Southwest Research Institute. All rights reserved under U.S. Copyright Law and International Conventions. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without permission in writing from the publisher. All inquiries should be addressed to Communications Department, Southwest Research Institute, P.O. Drawer 28510, San Antonio, Texas 78228-0510. |
