Molecular Composites and Interfaces
Molecular Composites and Interfaces
Research Overview and Strategy
We are interested in developing the next generation of composite materials which are predominantly shaped through immediate molecular interaction at their interfaces. Molecular composites can experience synergetic effects in which the material properties of a mixture can outperform the properties (e.g. conductivity) of the individual components. We want to exploit and establish these synergetic effects through a holistic research approach by combining a) state of the art chemical synthesis procedures with b) in-situ and in-operando characterization techniques and
c) development of physical models. The targeted molecular composites range from interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) to functionalized surfaces/interfaces and adaptive materials.
Make
Measure
Measure
Formation of molecular composites structures through straight forward blending strategies and orthogonal crosslinking reactions or dynamic bond formation.
Measure
Measure
Measure
Comprehensive analytical investigation of morphologies to decipher the structure-property relation of molecular composites. Ranging from high resolution imaging to bulk property testing
Model
Measure
Model
Development of physical models to explain relative roles of kinetic and thermodynamic driving forces and influence of chemical bond formation and physical entanglement of polymers .