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Thesis
Electrospinning and rheological characterization of quaternized chitosan
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Jun 2011
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-3722
Abstract
Mobile power generation and storage is one of the greatest challenges for power hungry electronic devices. Methanol fuel cells, based on proton conducting Nafion® membranes have been shown to have a higher power density than state of the art lithium-ion batteries and have an instant recharge time. A great deal of focus has been placed on improving this system. In this work, a naturally derived polymer was functionalized and conformationally modified to make it suitable for an alkaline fuel cell membrane. Quaternary chitosan, a water soluble chitosan derivative, was synthesized by introducing quaternary ammonium functionality onto the amino groups of chitosan. This quaternized chitosan was cast into films, crosslinked, and subsequently tested for ionic conductivity. In an effort to increase ionic conductivity, the quaternized chitosan was then electrospun to produce nanoscale fibers. The solution behavior of this derivative in a variety of solvent systems was assessed for electrospinning. The quaternary chitosan was further characterized rheologically to determine solution behavior in acidic solvents.
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Details
- Title
- Electrospinning and rheological characterization of quaternized chitosan
- Creators
- Keith James Fahnestock - DU
- Contributors
- Caroline L. Schauer (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Materials (Science and) Engineering (Metallurgical Engineering) [Historical]; College of Engineering (1970-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 3722; 991014631952804721