EAGER: Development of Novel Analytical Approaches for Measurements of CNTs Release from Polymer Nanocomposites

CBET - 1342028 There is growing interest in the development of nanocomposites consisting of organic polymers and various nanomaterials. These new materials can provide unique functionalities as compared to unmodified polymers in terms of dielectric, magnetic, thermal, mechanical, optical, transport, permeation and separation properties. Although nanomaterials are considered potentially hazardous, they are often considered safe when encapsulated into the matrix. However, systematic research to confirm the abovementioned paradigm is lacking, despite the potential risks of nanomaterial release to human health and environment. Intellectual Merit : Current research on the stability of nanocomposites has focused primarily on short term stability and performance, whereas the longer term issues have not been properly addressed. This knowledge gap has the potential to hinder both applications and acceptance of polymers in various industries. More specifically, stability of both matrix and nanocomposites are of critical importance. It is known that the polymer matrix can undergo degradation when exposed to various environmental conditions during production, use and disposal. This can lead to nanofiller release, which can potentially cause various health and environmental problems. Therefore, it is absolutely critical to understand the behavior of nanocomposites under relevant environmental conditions. More specifically, evaluation of the amounts and rates of Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) release from composites has been a tremendous challenge for the existing analytical techniques so far. This project will utilize C-14 labeled CNTs which will allow us to quantify the released CNTs using a relatively simple analytical technique. This will be of tremendous value for advancing our knowledge of various CNTs exposure scenarios by developing accurate metrology tools. This tool can be also vital for development of accurate life cycle assessments of CNTs encapsulated into the polymer composites. Broader Impacts : This project can significantly impact nanotoxicology, environmental engineering, materials science and green chemistry/engineering areas through evaluation of various strategies for delivering functional nanocomposites with reduced health and environmental impacts. These approaches are designed to make timely contributions to a basic understanding of the environmental health and safety of nanotechnology. During the course of this project, the students will gain fundamental and applied knowledge in many areas of science and engineering encompassing environmental health and safety of nanotechnology. Our team has already utilized the resources of a new NSF REU site in Nanotechnology for Health, Energy, and the Environment at Stony Brook University. We will continue to recruit students through the REU site, which focuses on students from non-research, 4-year institutions with this research project. Through several recruitment mechanisms already established at the Stony Brook University we will reach underrepresented groups, including students from minority and economically disadvantaged communities as well as females. All these activities will establish a good foundation to achieve notable broader impacts of this proposal