Research Program in H. Marand's Laboratory:
Summary
Our research program is concerned with the study of phase transitions in
single and multicomponent polymer systems. Special emphasis is placed on
the investigation of the morphology, the crystallization and melting phenomena
in homopolymers, miscible polymer blends, block and random copolymers.
Recent focus has been placed on the origin and nature of time dependent
physical properties and relaxation behavior of semicrystalline polymers
above their glass transition temperature.
Slide Show
This slide
show (pdf file format) is designed for prospective graduate students
interested in knowing more about the type of experiments and problems,
which we have an interest in.
Recently Funded Research Programs:
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N.S.F., Science and Technology Center for High Performance Polymeric Adhesives
and Composites (1989-2000). Evolution of the Morphology and Physical Properties
Above Tg and Physical Aging of Poly(arylene ether ether ketone), Poly(phenylene
sulfide), Poly(ethylene terephthalate).
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N.S.F., Young Investigator Award (1993-1999). Experimental and Theoretical
Studies of Polymer Crystal Growth, Evolution of the Morphology and Physical
Properties Above Tg of Poly(ethylene), Poly(oxymethylene) and Poly(propylene).
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Procter and Gamble (1998-present). Nucleation and Aging of Poly(hydroxy
alkanoates).
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Dow Chemical Company (1995-present). Correlations Between the Morphological
Evolution and the Time Dependent Physical Properties of Ethylene and Propylene
Based Copolymers.
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Petroleum Research Funds Administered by the American Chemical Society
(1999-2001). Equilibrium Melting Temperature and Nucleation Constants of
Semicrystalline Polymers.
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Eastman Chemical (1999-). Secondary Crystallization and Physical Aging
of Poly(ethylene terephthalate).
Laboratory Facilities:
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Differential Scanning Calorimeters (Perkin Elmer DSC-2, DSC-2C, DSC-7 and
Pyris)
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Small Angle X-Ray Scattering (Compact and Standard Kratky Cameras)
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Volume and Linear Dilatometers
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Optical Microscopy (Zeiss and Olympus Polarized Light and Phase Contrast
Microscopes)
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Solid State Small Angle Light Scattering with 2-D Optical Multichannel
Analyzer
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Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analysis (Rheometrics, Mark III)
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ARES Rheometrics Strain Controlled Rheometer
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Access to: Wide Angle X-ray Diffraction, Atomic Force, Scanning and Transmission
Electron Microscopes, IR and Raman Spectroscopies, Creep Equipment, etc...)
