The use of state-of the art organic resins are limited by oxidation at higher temperatures. Available inorganic resins are not generally designed for use as structural polymer composites at temperatures above 300 °C and do not possess the desired processing or thermal/mechanical performance. In this temperature regime, metal components are traditionally used. However, the use of suitable polymeric composites would result in significant weight savings. Properly designed inorganic and hybrid (organic-inorganic) polymers may provide a viable route for a new class of lightweight, thermo-oxidatively stable materials with processing similar to traditional polymer composites.

In this research we seek to develop next-generation polymeric materials for use at elevated temperatures in oxidizing environments and investigate their use as composite matrix materials, adhesives, and barrier coatings. These new materials must be tailored to meet challenging processing, thermal, and mechanical targets.  These materials may be inorganic/organic hybrids or inorganic/organometallic polymers. Desirable properties include high glass transition temperatures, toughness and strength, and thermal, oxidative, and hydrolytic stability. Example systems of interest include but are not limited to carbosilanes, silazanes, aluminum phosphate polymers, and highly networked Alumino/Siloxo (-O-Al- and -O-Si-) systems such as MQ/MT siloxanes and polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) systems. Hybrid polymers containing other heteroatoms are also of interest. To improve mechanical properties, hybridization of inorganic systems with high performance organic resins may also be investigated.

This work entails design, synthesis, processing, and characterization of novel inorganic and hybrid polymers. Characterization techniques include chemical structure analysis, scattering, microscopy, spectroscopy, and thermal analysis. Candidates should have a background in chemistry, materials science and engineering, chemical engineering, or related fields as evidenced by education and a strong record of peer-reviewed publications.

key words

High Temperature Polymer; Organometallic Inorganic polymer; Composite; Adhesives; Hybrid; Pre-ceramic; Geopolymer;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants