Abstract: A polymer hybrid solid electrolyte that possesses high room temperature ionic conductivity, very low interfacial resistance with the electrodes and electrochemical stability window up to 5.2 volts. The polymer-ceramic hybrid solid electrolyte includes: a PEO based copolymer electrolyte; a solvate ionic liquid (SIL); and a salt of a monovalent cation. The inclusion of an ionically conductive additive, such as a ceramic fine powder, can further improve ionic conductivity as well as mechanical properties.

Abstract: Phase separated self-healing polymer coatings having a “biphasic” thermoset/thermoplastic morphology to achieve self-healing. The biphasic structure has: (i) a major “load-bearing” thermoset phase that has superior strength and performs major mechanical and structural functions, and (ii) a “self-healing” phase of a thermoplastic healing agent to repair the material and restore its mechanical and structural integrity after being damaged. The phase-separated morphology is achieved through phase separation via a reaction process.

Abstract: Phase separated self-healing polymeric wood coatings having a “biphasic” thermoset/thermoplastic morphology to achieve self-healing. The biphasic structure has: (i) a major “load-bearing” thermoset phase that has superior strength and performs major mechanical and structural functions, and (ii) a “self-healing” phase of a thermoplastic healing agent to repair the material and restore its mechanical and structural integrity after being damaged. The phase-separated morphology is achieved through phase separation via a reaction process. Methodologies for achieving the above mentioned “biphasic” structure in solvent borne thermally cured resin, waterborne resin, and solvent borne UV-curable resin are described.

Abstract: Nanoscale additives and methodology for their use during polymer-aided sludge dewatering to increase the dewatering efficiency compared to traditionally used polymer-only dewatering processes. The nanoscale additive increases the percent solids in the dewatered cake compared to polymer-only treatment. When the nanoscale additives are added, the centrifugal force (shear) required to obtain high percent solids can be significantly reduced and the optimum polymer dose required for effective dewatering is also significantly reduced.

Abstract: Composite materials are disclosed having low filler percolation thresholds for filler materials into the composite matrix material along with methods of controlling filler interconnectivity within the composite matrix material. Methods are, thus, disclosed that provide the ability to control the desired properties of the composites. The composites of the present disclosure are characterized by a “pseudo-crystalline” microstructure formed of matrix particles and filler particles where the matrix particles are faceted and substantially retain their individual particle boundaries and where the filler particles are interspersed between the matrix particles at the individual matrix particle boundaries such that the filler particles form a substantially interconnected network that substantially surrounds the individual faceted matrix particles.

Abstract: A silicone based coating for fabrics utilizing dual nanocomposite fillers providing enhanced mechanical and thermal properties to the silicone base. The first filler includes nanoclusters of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and a metal oxide and a second filler of exfoliated clay nanoparticles. The coating is particularly suitable for inflatable fabrics used in several space, military, and consumer applications, including airbags, parachutes, rafts, boat sails, and inflatable shelters.

Abstract: Composite materials are disclosed having low filler percolation thresholds for filler materials into the composite matrix material along with methods of controlling filler interconnectivity within the composite matrix material. Methods are, thus, disclosed that provide the ability to control the desired properties of the composites. The composites of the present disclosure are characterized by a “pseudo-crystalline” microstructure formed of matrix particles and filler particles where the matrix particles are faceted and substantially retain their individual particle boundaries and where the filler particles are interspersed between the matrix particles at the individual matrix particle boundaries such that the filler particles form a substantially interconnected network that substantially surrounds the individual faceted matrix particles.