Multifunctional Electrospun Nanocomposite Fibres from Biobased Polymers and Graphene

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This application proposes a comprehensive research program for producing high performance electrospun nanocomposite fibres, comprised of biobased polymers and graphene. Polymers of primary interest are biobased polyesters and lignin, since they are renewable, commercially available at a low cost and lignin is an excellent precursor for carbon fibre production. Graphene, a two dimensional carbon sheet, is transparent and one of the thinnest materials known, with a thickness of one atom. It has inspired huge interest in material science and engineering in the 21st century. Incorporation of a small percentage of graphene with electrospun fibres is expected to significantly improve the electrical and thermal conductivities, strength and thermal stability of nanocomposite fibres. Additional modification of graphene with metal nanoparticles is expected to result in further advanced nanocomposite fibres for high value applications. The carbon fibres will be produced by carbonization of the lignin-based electrospun fibres. Performance of the designed fibres will be evaluated for ultra-fine air filters and sustainable energy storage devices. Engineered properties of generated materials will also be evaluated for other innovative industrial applications. ***     Energy renewal and environmental management issues are the leading challenges facing humanity. A concerted effort is going on to find renewable and clean sources of energy which: (a) are independent of fossil fuels, (b) are more sustainable and environmental friendly and (c) emit less greenhouse gases. Therefore, it is consistent and highly advantageous to also have energy storage devices made from renewable materials. One of the other critical environmental issues around the world is air quality: (i) Indoor air quality is an important factor for several domestic, industrial, and health sectors; (ii) Reduction of air pollutant emissions, which include hazardous gases and particulate matters from industries and vehicles, is a key element of air quality control programs. In Canada, despite progress towards the reduction of chemical vapors, the reduction of particulate matter and ammonia emissions has not yet been achieved (National Air Pollutant Emissions, Environment Canada). The goal of the proposed application is to develop advanced bionanocomposite fibre mats which are designed for superior air filters with enhanced separation efficiency. Our discovery goal is to integrate cross-disciplinary insights and knowledge to combine nanotechnology with materials science to find more efficient, competitive and sustainable nanocomposite fibres for innovative applications for the betterment of society. The project will provide HQP with a stimulating training environment for their development as outstanding scientists and a foundation for further advances and applications.