What's Math Got to Do with High-Performance Nano-Composites? (Greg Forest, UNC-CH)

Abstract: Nano-composite materials of interest for this lecture consist of high aspect ratio spheroidal macromolecules, known as ``nematic polymers'' in a traditional polymer matrix. Rod-like, tube-like, and platelet molecules are added to polymeric materials to enhance a variety of properties, from thermal or electrical conductivities to barrier and mechanical properties. There is no direct theoretical prediction that begins with the composition of nano-inclusions and matrix, tracks the flow into films, fibers, or molded parts, and then infers the effective properties of the composite. Each of these stages is a cool mathematical theory, modeling, and simulation challenge. Progess and open problems that remain will be discussed.
(Collaborators:
Xiaoyu Zheng, current PhD student at UNC
Robert Lipton, Louisiana State University
Qi Wang, Florida State University
Ruhai Zhou, Old Dominion University
Hong Zhou, University of California-Santa Cruz & Naval Postgraduate School)

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This is an abstract of a talk to be presented at the 2004 SEAMS Workshop in Charleston, SC. For more information, visit the workshop's homepage at math.cofc.edu/SEAMS.