Articles tagged with Polymer Engineering
Biomanufacturers are developing fully disposable bioprocess streams to minimize validation studies, sterilization, and cleaning procedures. Companies like GE Healthcare and Pall offer disposable products that reduce inventory costs and improve flexibility in bioprocessing.
Researchers at NC State University have discovered a technique to bring nanoparticles to the surface of thin polymer films using heat, allowing for controllable surface patterns. This breakthrough could lead to tiny reusable bar codes and small fluorescent features that turn off with increasing heat or chemical presence.
A team of researchers from Case Western Reserve University, VA and NASA Glenn Research Center has unveiled a method for developing mechanically-reinforced polymer nanocomposites. The approach uses a process to assemble nanoparticles into a three-dimensional network before filling it with a polymer, resulting in compatible materials. Th...
Scientists have developed a simple experiment to measure the mechanical properties of thin films, which could impact industries like cosmetics, coatings and nanoelectronics. The new method uses low-power optical microscopy to observe wrinkles in the film, providing insight into material properties.
Researchers developed artificial blood vessels from muscle-derived stem cells and a biodegradable polymer, exhibiting extensive remodeling and blockage-free performance in rat models. The findings have significant implications for treating heart and kidney disorders with 'off-the-shelf' vascular grafts.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory developed an advanced concept in nanoscale catalyst engineering, improving polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells for hydrogen-powered vehicles. The study identified a clear trend in the behavior of extended and nanoscale surfaces of platinum-bimetallic alloy.
Case Western Reserve University has been awarded a prestigious multimillion-dollar research center by the National Science Foundation, focusing on polymers research. The CLiPS center aims to lead the nation with an integrated program of research and education through its unique microlayering and nanolayering process.
The study reveals that externally applied force influences the dispersion and orientation of carbon nanotubes in composites. The researchers mapped out a phase diagram to estimate the resulting order and achieved desirable properties.
Researchers at VCU have created a unique polymer coating that switches from being hydrophilic to hydrophobic when exposed to water, offering potential applications in medical testing and fluid control. The coating's reversible properties make it suitable for various industries.
The team uses heterocycles from DNA to recognize specific complementary groups, creating a reversible surface that can be modified and reused. The new technology has potential applications in body armor and films.
The Virginia Tech trio of Tom Ward, James McGrath, and Garth Wilkes has been awarded the Paul J. Flory Polymer Education Award by the American Chemical Society Division of Polymer Chemistry for their long-term efforts in educating students in polymer science and engineering. The award recognizes the trio's creation of an interdisciplin...
Carnegie Mellon University chemist Dr. Matyjaszewski has received a prestigious award for his groundbreaking contributions to atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), a controlled living polymerization process that enables precise control over polymer composition and architecture.
Scientists create cell chips using temperature-driven changes in a material, enabling the creation of custom-designed devices for experiments and medical applications. The technology has the potential to revolutionize tissue engineering and medical diagnostics by providing a low-cost, efficient way to create complex devices.
Researchers at Spin Master Toys developed a new bubble solution that can last for weeks, thanks to a strengthening polymer. The 'Catch-A-Bubble' product uses a combination of soap and water to create long-lasting bubbles that can withstand evaporation.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed polymeric brushes with gradient compositional densities, allowing materials to alter their response to environmental changes. These structures can be used in applications such as artificial skin, wound healing, and coatings that provide a barrier against corrosive substances.
Cornell University researchers will create block copolymer electro-optical structures using low-cost materials and simple processing steps. The project aims to revolutionize routine lithographic nanopatterning and integrate soft materials onto silicon chips.
Researchers have created filtration membranes with hydrophilic outer surfaces to resist fouling, increasing the amount of solution that can be passed through. The membranes also exhibit self-healing properties.
Gary Leal, a professor of chemical engineering at the University of California, Santa Barbara, has been awarded the Society of Rheology's 2000 Bingham Medal. His research on polymeric liquids, liquid crystalline polymers, and suspensions/emulsions has significantly advanced the field of rheology.
Soft lithography enables fabrication of silicon thin-film transistors on curved substrates with conformable patterning. The technique overcomes photolithography limitations for large-format and unconventional materials applications.
A new polymer material could revolutionize treatment of broken bones by speeding up healing and reducing the need for invasive surgery. The biodegradable material is designed to degrade like a bar of soap, allowing for a gradual transfer of load from the degrading polymer to the healing bone.
A potentially safer, more potent form of aspirin made from polymers called PolyAspirin could eliminate stomach irritation and other side effects. The polymer-based drug consists of linked aspirin molecules that break down in the intestine, allowing for efficient delivery and reduced side effects.
Virginia Tech researchers create optoelectronic devices using ionically self-assembled monolayers, overcoming stability challenges in nonlinear optical materials. The breakthrough could lead to conformal coatings for Mach-Zender interferometers and enable new applications in laser systems and data storage.
Cornell University materials engineers have created a polyvinylalcohol (PVA) nanocomposite that can be used to deliver drugs to the human brain or bloodstream. The material, with chains of polymer molecules controlling drug flow, has potential applications in tissue engineering and enzyme carriers.
A new polymer-drug combination has inhibited the growth of ovarian cancer cell lines by up to 97% in two previous treatments. Researchers are now investigating the effects of varying metal combinations, hoping to find a more effective treatment for this deadly form of cancer.
Researchers develop a new method for labeling cell surfaces with azide markers, which can target cancer therapy, medical implants, and viral-mediated gene transfer. The Staudinger ligation technique uses an electron-hungry carbohydrate trap to prevent instability in water, enabling stable amide bonds.
Researchers at UMass have made a major step forward in nanoscopic pattern transfer, creating precise designs on polymer films without the use of chemicals. The breakthrough has implications for producing smaller integrated circuits, magnetic storage, and on-chip sensors.
Researchers at UMass have created a miniature UMass logo using nanotechnology, with potential applications in creating smaller electronic devices and increasing magnetic storage. This breakthrough is part of a larger push to develop new technologies through the study of nature's own self-assembling molecular structures.
A Cornell University research team led by Paulette Clancy is developing novel semiconducting materials using polymers, which could lead to cheaper and more portable 'throwaway electronics.' The project aims to create new materials for light-emitting diode displays and flexible laptop screens.
Sandia National Laboratories is showcasing cutting-edge MicroElectricalMechanical Systems (MEMs) innovations at the Santa Clara show. The technology has vast applications in medical treatment, anti-terrorism, and engineering systems, with potential annual market value of $100 billion by 2030.
A team of scientists discovered that polymer molecules in ultra-thin films of 14 nanometers retain their shape and size comparable to their bulk counterparts. This finding challenges previous simulations, which suggested minimal changes in molecular structure with decreasing film thickness.
The Institute of Materials is seeking abstracts for Materials Congress 2000, a major meeting of materials engineers and scientists. The event will attract 600 delegates and include a comprehensive conference programme, exhibitions, and social activities.
Researchers developed a new technique to visualize the three-dimensional internal structure of objects using sonic imaging. This method stacks planar ultrasound images and provides detailed analysis without physically cutting open the part.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed tiny polymer pellets containing NGF that can regenerate dying cells and improve cognitive function in rats. The system targets specific brain areas and releases NGF molecules over a period of months, offering potential for a one-time treatment for Alzheimer's.
A University of Colorado at Boulder chemical engineering team has developed new techniques for faster healing of severe bone fractures and regeneration of cartilage in joints. The process uses ultraviolet light to create custom scaffolds that can be engineered to time-release medications and human-growth factors.
A team of Penn State materials scientists has developed a new polymer material that can move significantly when an electric field is applied. The material, Poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) Copolymer, exhibits electrostrictive properties and shows potential for use in artificial muscles, skin, and organs.
Researchers have created star polymer gels with potential applications in delivering high concentrations of drugs to specific areas in the body, such as tumors. These gels can also recognize and remove substances like cholesterol from the blood through a process called molecular imprinting.
The 216th national meeting of the American Chemical Society will feature over 6,000 technical presentations on various topics including analysis of endocrine disrupters, environmental issues and polymers from renewable resources. Approximately 10,000 registrants are expected to gather for about 609 technical sessions.
A thin polymer coating on coronary arteries may prevent platelet formation and reduce the risk of acute thrombosis following angioplasty. The study found significant inhibition of platelet deposition for at least one hour, supporting a novel treatment approach.
A recent study at the University of Illinois found that polyethylene glycol (PEG) coating can undergo attractive interactions with proteins, changing its configuration and potentially increasing biocompatibility. The discovery has significant implications for biomedical applications, such as implants and artificial scaffolds.