Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Commons^™

Development Of Functional Biomaterials Using Protein Building Blocks, Li-Sheng Wang

Doctoral Dissertations

Proteins have intrinsic molecular properties that are highly useful for materials applications, especially for biomaterials. My research has focused on translating these molecular properties to materials surface behavior. In one approach, I developed a fluorous-based thermal treatment strategy to generate stable thin films from a variety of naturally abundant proteins. The different surface properties generated from the choice of protein were utilized to modulate cell-surface interactions, prevent bacterial adhesions, and control drug loading/release. I have used nanoimprint lithography to generate patterned protein films for cell alignment. Coupling with inkjet printing deposition, I have fabricated mixed protein films with spatial and …

Investigating Scalable Manufacturing Of High-Conductivity Wires And Coatings From Ultra-Long Carbon Nanotubes, Pouria Khanbolouki

Mechanical Engineering ETDs

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are a promising candidate for next generation of electrical wirings and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials due to their exceptional mechanical and electrical properties. Wires and coatings from ultralong nanotubes that are highly crystalline, well-aligned and densely packed can achieve this goal. High-performance CNT conductors will be relatively lightweight and resistant to harsh conditions and therefore can potentially replace current conductors in many industries including aerospace, automotive, gas and oil.

This thesis investigates a new manufacturing approach, based on conventional solution coating and wire drawing methods, to fabricate high conductivity wires and coatings from ultra-long carbon nanotubes. …