Modeling of Multi-phase Polymer/Liquid Crystal Blends
Liquid Crystal Polymers
Objectives
Improve properties of multi-phase materials used in displays and information technology through modeling of morphogenesis.
Problems/Issues/Challenges Addressed
Devices made from multi-phase polymer/liquid crystal materials depend on the micro-structure that emerges during processing. Present understanding of morphogenesis in these materials is weak. Simulations that implement newly developed theories and compare morphologies with experimental micrographs can improve processing and design.
Expected Deliverables
- Testing and verification of new theory of non-equilibrium isotropic/anisotropic polymer blend materials.
- Software tools for modeling micro-structure and kinetics of isotropic/anisotropic polymer two-phase materials.
- A web based communication/information tool for researchers in the field.
Likely Impacts/Consequences
Improved morphology control and design of two-phase polymer/nematic liquid crystal materials used by industry in information technology devices.
Accomplishments and Highlights
- Formed partnership and co-sponsored major workshop with ALCOM, NSF Science and Technology Center.
- Two working group meetings and a six week summer workshop began verification phase of project.
- Began development of software tools for modeling microstructure and kinetics.
- Developed prototype web based communication/information tool for researchers.
People
Nist Researchers:S.C. Glotzer (MSEL), S.A. Langer (ITL)
Collaborators:A.J. Liu (UCLA), P.Palffy-Muhoray (KSU), ALCOM researchers, students
Industry:GM, Raychem, IBM, DPix, Phillips
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