With the development of nanoparticle and colloidal technologies that include processing in the dispersed phase (or are fundamentally liquid phase processes), there is a need for measurement methods and applications of theory to adequately describe distributions of particles in complex fluid environments. Our goal will be to develop analytical ultracentrifugation methods, with other polymer and colloidal science tools, to characterize particle or polymer distributions that occur in complex environments. Possible ideas for projects include characterization of Pickering (particle stabilized) emulsions for particle-interface adhesion strength, MW characterization of extended or structured polymers for organic electronics in organic solvents, characterization of interfacial coatings and interparticle interactions between single-wall carbon nanotubes in complex environments such as depleting polymers, or particle transport in nearly jammed suspensions.

 

References

Mace CR, et al: Journal of American Chemical Society 134 (22): 9094, 2012

Khripin CY, et al: ACS Nano 5(10): 8258, 2011

 

key words

Colloid; Polymer; Characterization; Analytical ultracentrifugation; Emulsion; Complex fluid; Ultracentrifugation; Nanotechnology;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants