The Advanced Polymers group conducts research on the synthesis, processing, and characterization of high-performance polymers, including existing commercial systems modified to meet new performance standards, as well as potential new engineering polymers with very demanding applications. Areas of work include commodity thermoset and thermoplastic polymers (e.g. epoxy, polyurethane, polyolefins, and styrenics) and specialized polymer systems (e.g. polyimides, aromatic heterocyclic ordered polymers, and electrically conductive polymers).
Current research is primarily conducted in support of Air Force and Army project needs, especially with the Polymer Nanocomposites and Composites group. In addition, industry-sponsored work on polymer systems enhanced with nanoparticles, and the fire performance of polymeric materials are major research areas for the group. The group also operates a polymer synthesis lab and a materials characterization lab, along with fire testing equipment, to support current and future project work.
Capabilities