Polymer Research and Development

The Institute has conducted extensive research, development, and testing of bisoxazoline-phenolic resin composites with fiberglass. These materials are used in molten metals processing plants and in high-temperature transformers.

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 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.

Institute scientists are developing innovative composites for use in long-life dental restoratives. At left above, a liquid crystal monomer is shown at a magnification of 200x. At right, the same material is shown at 200x after being filled with tantalum oxide, producing a polymer composite with minimal shrinkage and increased transparency and hardness. Zero polymer shrinkage is desirable in dental restoratives to limit the debonding action of accumulated tensile stresses.

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.

Polymer scientists at SwRI have developed and patented tough, low-flammability, high service temperature (350 degrees F+) modifications of bisoxazoline-phenolic thermoset resins. Institute researchers are working closely with clients on programs involving carbon fiber or fiberglass composites containing these modified thermosets. The work is aimed at developing materials for a wide range of applications, including subsonic and supersonic aircraft, ground and marine transportation, and lightweight composite pipes, heat shields, and other high-strength, non-conductive materials for the construction, electrical, and oil industries.

1996 Annual Report SwRI Home