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Dissertation
An Investigation of Gel and Composite Materials: Techniques to Improve Their Mechanical Properties and The Use of Dielectric-Barrier Discharge Plasma as a Polymerization Tool
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Drexel University
Aug 2023
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001883
Abstract
Herein, a comprehensive investigation is carried out to explore several gel and composite materials and the techniques that can be used to produce enhanced materials with superior mechanical properties. This thesis focuses on different but related projects, separated by chapters. In Chapter 1, a quick overview of what defines gels and composites, as well as various examples of each are given. Additionally, the types of polymerization tools available for forming these materials are explored and their mechanical properties are discussed. In Chapter 2, a hydrogel is studied that was made using a uniquely synthesized double network system to produce a highly stretchable, injectable, re-moldable, and strong gel with strain sensing capabilities. In Chapter 3, a novel inorganic-based gel composite made from a truly 1-dimensional titanate is investigated. The investigation of this recently discovered material led to the elucidation of a previously unknown gelling mechanism rarely seen for inorganic materials. The compressive strength of the gels was measured, and the chemical composition of the material was determined. In Chapter 4, a wood-polymer composite (WPC) was produced using a non-conventional method of polymerization called dielectric-barrier discharge (DBD) plasma. The DBD plasma-treated method was compared to a similar WPC made using UV light as the polymerization technique. The DBD plasma technique produced superior WPCs with higher flexural strength than the UV-treated WPCs. Finally, an acrylic acid paper composite is produced and tested as a wet wipe material to determine its anti-drying properties. This composite was also produced using the DBD plasma technique for the bulk polymerization of the acrylic acid-immersed paper sheets.
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Details
- Title
- An Investigation of Gel and Composite Materials
- Creators
- Matthew Mieles
- Contributors
- Haifeng Ji (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- xvii, 142 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- College of Arts and Sciences; Chemistry; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991021230106404721