Issues in multicomponent polymerizations polymeric sensor development

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The general objectives of the proposed research program are to use polymer reaction engineering tools in order to "fashion" polymer properties and aid in polymer product design and optimization. In other words, based on our long-term experience in polymer process engineering, we are trying to produce polymers with desired properties (polymer modification and optimization). These desired properties include both micro-molecular (micro-structural) and chemical/mechanical (end-use) properties. As such, the proposed program deals with both fundamental and applied research. Research will be pursued in: (1) Multicomponent polymerization kinetics and reactivity ratio estimation, an area of research that we are experts internationally and in a unique position to make further contributions on the estimation of key reactivity parameters of important polymerization systems (both academically and industrially); (2) Development of novel polymeric sensors for the detection of toxic analytes (volatile organic compounds). This is a new direction of research for us, but one that will rely heavily on past expertise with polymer property modification. In collaboration with Systems Design and Electrical engineers, we will develop a series of prescriptions which will enable one to 'match' appropriate polymers to a specific chemical (and that is what differentiates this work from past efforts that are highly specialized, one-shot, attempts). All of the above research areas represent very complex problems, are unique in Canada, and are extremely significant from both academic and commercial standpoints. Since they cross interdisciplinary boundaries (Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, material properties, sensor development, miniaturization, Systems Design/ Electrical/ Nano-/ Polymer Engineering), they are very appropriate for graduate student training, and for expanding our knowledge-based economy.