Recent research led by Robert A. Green-Warren from the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Rutgers University has unveiled groundbreaking insights into the viscoelastic properties of polymer films produced through electrospray deposition (ESD). This innovative technique is garnering attention not only in academic circles but also in various commercial sectors, particularly construction, where the demand for advanced materials is ever-increasing.
The study, published in ‘Macromolecular Materials and Engineering,’ highlights how ESD can be leveraged to create multilayer polymer films with customizable morphologies. These films are crucial for applications like multiphase separation, which is increasingly relevant in construction for processes such as waterproofing and insulation. Green-Warren emphasized the significance of their findings, stating, “Our work demonstrates that the mechanical properties of particulate viscoelastic films can be evaluated with nanograms of material, paving the way for more efficient material development.”
One of the standout discoveries from the research is the relationship between the flow rate of the ESD process and the resulting film thickness. As the flow rate increased from 0.5 to 1.5 mL h−1, the thickness of the polystyrene (PS) films on gold substrates nearly doubled, revealing a remarkable increase in dissipation. This phenomenon is attributed to larger particle sizes resulting from shorter droplet flight times, an effect not observed in traditional spin-coated films. This insight could lead to the development of more effective coatings that enhance the durability and performance of construction materials.
Moreover, the research found that the shear moduli of the ESD films were only a fraction of the bulk PS modulus, yet the stiffness ratio of spray-coated PS to a single shell was significantly higher. This discrepancy suggests that interactions between the shells and the substrate play a critical role in the mechanical properties of the films. Such findings could revolutionize the way construction materials are engineered, particularly in creating high surface area sensors or membranes for specific applications like electrolyte adsorption.
As the construction industry continuously seeks to improve material performance while reducing costs, the implications of this research are profound. The ability to create tailored polymer films with enhanced mechanical properties could lead to innovations in building materials that are not only stronger but also more efficient in their application. Green-Warren’s work stands as a testament to the potential of integrating advanced material science with practical construction needs.
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