REU Site: Sustainable Aerospace and Marine Polymer Composites

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This Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Site focuses on development of lightweight, energy efficient polymer composite materials to be used in next-generation aerospace, marine and defense components. Ten students will be recruited annually for a 10-week summer research experience at the School of Polymers and High Performance Materials. The proposed research activities can be broadly classified into three general areas: (1) Synthesis of high performance polymer composite matrices, (2) Mechanical testing and performance of composites, and (3) Addition of fillers or nano-additives for material property enhancement.There is a commercial and national need to develop high performance, lightweight materials for increased fuel efficiency and corrosion resistance. This REU Site provides REU participants access to state-of-the-art facilities to pursue fundamental research in critical areas. Undergraduate students participate in a comprehensive research and professional development program that encourages them to pursue scientific and engineering careers.This award is co-funded by the NSF Divisions of Materials Research and of Chemistry.