AIR: Transforming nanofiber technology through scalable fabrication

拟议的AIR项目将允许建造一个用于连续制造纳米纤维的新型放大设备的原型，并研究和模拟设备中的纤维形成过程，包括流体动力学液体射流变形，相分离，聚合物沉淀和纤维变形。拟议的工作还将允许在扩大规模的过程中有效和可靠地控制纳米棒和纳米纤维的直径，长度和纵横比;并将在北卡罗来纳州团队和Xanofi之间进行合作，Xanofi是一家新的小型分拆公司。拟议的工作将使从创新技术过渡到突破性技术成为可能，从而深刻改变新兴的纳米材料市场。该提案中开发的扩大技术可以支持1亿美元的纳米纤维市场。这些纳米纤维在节能过滤器和固态照明中的预期应用将有助于开发新一代更绿色的工业和消费产品。该平台技术的商业开发将通过与当地和国家公司合作创造就业机会来促进北卡罗来纳州的经济。教育推广计划包括为北卡罗来纳州和Xanofi的社区大学生提供实习机会，以及在当地高中展示纳米材料制造。

The proposed AIR project will allow construction of a prototype of a new scaled-up device for continuous fabrication of nanofibers, as well as to investigate and model the fiber formation processes in the device, including hydrodynamic liquid jet deformation, phase separation, polymer precipitation and fiber deformation. The proposed work would also allow efficient and reliable control of the diameter, length and aspect ratios of nanorods and nanofibers in the scaled-up process; and will be performed in collaboration between the North Carolina State team and Xanofi, a new small spin-off company. The proposed work would make possible the transition from an innovative technique into a breakthrough technology that can profoundly change the emerging market of nanomaterials. The scaled-up technology developed in this proposal could bolster the $100 million market for nanofibers. The envisioned applications of these nanofibers in energy-efficient filters and solid-state lighting would help develop a new generation of greener industrial and consumer products. The commercial development of this platform technology would bolster the economy of North Carolina through job creation in partnerships with local and national companies. The plans for educational outreach include internships for community college students at NORTH Carolina State and Xanofi, and demonstrations of nanomaterial fabrication in local high schools.