Field-Assisted Manufacturing of Multifunctional ZnO Nanowire-Polymer Nanocomposites

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Polymer-based nanocomposites are becoming an attractive set of organic-inorganic materials due to their multifunctionality and many potential applications. The aim of this project is to develop a novel electroactive polymeric composite for multifunctional applications that require self-sensing and self-actuation capabilities. We propose to design wide nanowires-polymer composites whose morphology in the polymer matrix is micro-tailored by external fields. The goal is to achieve controlled alignment and dispersion of nanowires in the polymer matrix, resulting in a composite that combines electrostrictive and piezoelectric properties. Electromechanical response of such nanocomposite is expected to exceed the best single-phase ceramics, polymers or thin films currently available and preserve advantages of the polymers. The combination of superb properties of nanomaterials with the lightweight, flexibility, and manufacturability of dielectric polymers provides the route for future generations of multifunctional materials. The novel nanocomposites will have tremendous impact in intelligent materials and structure applications, including piezoelectric sensors and actuators, biological sensors, structural health monitoring and vibration control in numerous industrial, civil, medical and aerospace applications.The research will involve graduate student and undergraduate education and training. Graduate and undergraduate student researchers will be trained to work on nanomaterials fabrication, property characterization, and device design and evaluation. Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) will be created for students from underrepresented groups through the Summer Engineering Academy (SEA) program coordinated by the Pitt Engineering Office of Diversity. This project will also provide hands-on research training opportunities for K-12 students each summer semester through Pitt Engineering Career Access Program (PECAP). The research topics in this project will be incorporated into a new course on Nanomaterials and Devices for senior undergraduate and graduate students.