Materials for Technology
Low-Density Nanocomposites
Our current studies explore the chemical and physical functionalization of nanomaterials for integration into low-density nanocomposites. Nanomaterial integration in highly dependent of the interface of the nanoparticle and the matrix of the composite. We currently focus on carbon and boron-nitride nanotubes integrating them with synthetic and natural polymer aerogels.
Ionic Liquids
Ionic liquids are a fascinating class of organic salts that can be liquid at and below reasonable room temperatures. They are incredibly versatile with near infinite synthesis pathways. This tunable chemistry allows us to to tailor them for specific applications. Our work in ionic liquids, current funded by NASA, focusses on the creation of paramagnetic ionic liquid for mass transport. We also explore applications in polymer solubility and restructuring, as well as regenerative medicine.
Surface Engineering
Surface engineering and surface chemistry is a broad field of expertise developed within our group. Utilization of nanomaterials and nanostructures is dominated by their interface with the world. By controlling the chemistry of nanoparticle surfaces we control that interface. We can also grow nanostructured surfaces on bulk materials and further control the interface of large structures enhanced or reduced wetting, reducing drag, or for the reduction of mineral or organic fouling.
Nanomaterials for Technology
Boron Nitride Nanomaterials
The Alston Research group is actively developing functionalization and characterization methods of boron nitride nanomaterials. Our primary BN substrates are hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), a B-N graphene analog, and boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs), carbon nanotube analogs, where carbon atoms are alternately substituted by nitrogen and boron atoms. Both h-BN and BNNTs are strong, light-weight nanomaterials with a Young’s modulus >1 TPa. They have great thermal conductivity, also similar to single wall CNTs. However, BN nanomaterials have a wide band gap (~5.5 eV), exhibit a high resistance to oxidation and show greater thermal stability. Because of these properties h-BN and BNNTs are excellent mechanical reinforcement candidates, can be utilized in optically transparent composites, and high-temperature materials, and radiation shielding..
Nanocellulose and other Natural Polymers
We utilize a combination of solvent design and surface chemistry to manipulate natural polymers for the creation of nanoparticles, fibers, and low-density nanocomposites. From cellulose, to silk, to chitin, to keratin, and collagen, natural polymers found in nature possess incredible properties that can be utilized in a broad range of industries. Most natural polymers derive their exceptional properties from their intricate balance of intermolecular forces forming nanoscale domains. They also tend to be abundant and renewable resources.
Paramagnetic Ionic Liquids
By utilizing the diverse chemistry available to change the structure and properties of ionic liquids our group has been leading the development of a class of ionic liquids designed to be magnetically susceptible (paramagnetic). We add paramagnetic moieties to ionic liquid molecules tailored to absorb CO2. Once absorbed into the liquid we are then able to transport the gas across membranes and through devices using magnetic fields.