Lab-scale batch mixer for the development of high performance multiphase polymer systems

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The main objective of this proposal, which was already submitted last year without success, is to replace a very old internal batch mixer acquired in 1987. This set-up is actually one of the most used processing equipment in our lab (35 h/week). Over the years, it was maintained and upgraded several times to continue working under good conditions. Presently, it is no longer working correctly (leaks) and is regularly out of service (electronics) limiting the possibility to perform on-time the current projects on polymer blends, nanocomposites, foams, hybrids, etc., as well as to develop new ones. We believe that it has fully accomplished its duties and now is the time to replace it before complete shutdown occurs leaving no other alternatives. The requested equipment is a modular Plasti-Corder Torque Rheometer connected to a Prep Mixer, 304 Stainless Steel Three Section Mixer from C.W. Brabender instruments. The set-up includes three rotors/blades configurations (rollers, cams and Banbury) for a wide range of processing conditions needed for our research projects on thermoplastics and elastomers. It also has a larger mixing chamber (350-420 cm3) to prepare higher amount of materials and be closer to more industrial conditions compared to our old equipment (only one set of rotors and 40 cm3) Since both applicants (F. Mighri and D. Rodrigue) are unifying their efforts to build a common laboratory space (processing, rheology and characterization), the proposed equipment will help in building this research area and attracting the best students and postdoctoral fellows to work on more challenging projects, thus enhancing the quality of their training. The equipment will also be accessible to students from other departments and universities in need of this processing tool.