Understanding Corrosion and Diffusion Behavior in Metal Particle Polymer Composites for Corrosion Sensing

University Of Arkansas, Fayetteville AR

Investigators

Abstract

This research focuses on the fundamental processes of corrosion and multi-phase diffusion in metal particle polymer composites with functionalized nano behavior. The knowledge attained by this research will enable a new type of MEMS-based corrosion sensor technology that is small-size, tailorable and smart, ultimately allowing the US to better focus financial investments earmarked for infrastructure repair. Experiments will be carried out to (i) understand the fundamental issues associated with the fabrication of polymers with micro- and nano-particle inclusions and (ii) study material performance in simulated corrosive environments. Atomistic simulation is used to study the nanoscale details of diffusion and corrosion in particle polymer composites. The proposed simulations will provide a detailed understanding of the role of the inclusions on the structure of the polymer chains in the matrix and on the transport of corrosive molecules through the composite. Fundamental aspects of diffusion and particle reactions in the composites studied in this work potentially have broad applicability to other sensing technologies. This project will integrate the NSF REU site in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, NSF DUE site for Robert Noyce Scholarships Program, and George Washington Carver program at the University of Arkansas to recruit underrepresented students and interface with STEM K-12 teachers in high-need areas.