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Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons

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Chemistry

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Theses/Dissertations

2010

Polymers

Articles 1 - 2 of 2

Full-Text Articles in Physical Sciences and Mathematics

The Fabrication Of Polymer-Derived Sicn/Sibcn Ceramic Nanostructures And Investigation Of Their Structure-Property Relationship, Sourangsu Sarkar Jan 2010

The Fabrication Of Polymer-Derived Sicn/Sibcn Ceramic Nanostructures And Investigation Of Their Structure-Property Relationship, Sourangsu Sarkar

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Polymer-derived Ceramics (PDCs) represent a unique class of high-temperature stable materials synthesized directly by the thermal decomposition of polymers. This research first focuses on the fabrication of high temperature stable siliconcarbonitride (SiCN) fibers by electrospinning for ceramic matrix composite (CMC) applications. Ceraset™ VL20, a commercially available liquid cyclosilazane, was functionalized with aluminum sec-butoxide in order to be electrospinnable. The surface morphology of the electrospun fibers was investigated using the fibers produced from solvents. The electrospun fibers produced from the chloroform/N,N-dimethylformamide solutions had hierarchical structures that led to superhydrophobic surfaces. A “dry skin” model was proposed to explain the formation of …


Physicochemical And Thermochemical Properties Of Sulfonated Poly(Etheretherketone) Electrolyte Membranes, Stephen Rhoden Jan 2010

Physicochemical And Thermochemical Properties Of Sulfonated Poly(Etheretherketone) Electrolyte Membranes, Stephen Rhoden

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Fuel cells have long been seen as an alternative to combustion powered and diesel powered engines and turbines. Production of energy via a fuel cell conversion method can generate up to 60% efficiency in comparison to 30% using a combustion powered engine, with low co-production of harmful side-products. The polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) adapted for the fuel cell application is one of the main components that determines the overall efficiency. This research project was focused towards novel PEMs, such as sulfonated poly(etheretherketone) or SPEEK, which are cost-efficient and robust with high proton conductivities under hydrated conditions. The degree of sulfonation …