POLY 73 |
| The use of perfluoropolyethers (PFPEs) for novel applications is explored. PFPEs are low viscosity, highly fluorinated oils with incredibly low surface energies. Direct polymerization of functional PFPEs results in elastomeric, low surface energy materials. PFPE molds show superior properties compared to poly(dimethyl siloxane) and rigid materials in nano-patterning and other applications. A versatile nanofabrication method, Particle Replication In Non-wetting Templates (PRINTTM) allows for the fabrication of particles having absolute control over size, shape and composition. When liquid precursors are introduced to a patterned PFPE mold, isolated particles having designed shape and size can be generated. Harvested, mono-disperse particles having a range of shapes and sizes were fabricated in sizes down to 200 nm out of a wide variety of materials. PRINT particles are shown to be useful in several applications including nano-medicine. Finally, PFPE materials were used to fabricate novel elastomeric solvent-compatible microfluidic devices useful in chemical synthesis. |
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National Starch & Chemical Company Award for Outstanding Graduate Research in Polymer Science and Engineering
1:45 PM-5:00 PM, Sunday, August 19, 2007 Westin Boston Waterfront -- Grand Ballroom C, Oral
Division of Polymer Chemistry |