U.S.-Brazil Cooperative Research on Interpenetrating PolymerNetwork Formation.

该奖项支持由纽约州立大学奥尔巴尼分校（SUNY-Albany）研究基金会的Harry Frisch和巴西福塔莱萨塞阿拉联邦大学的Glaucione de Barros进行的聚合物合作研究。他们将研究通过形成互穿聚合物网络来修饰聚合物的新方法。这种网络可以产生更有价值的改性天然聚合物，具有显著增强的物理性能。在不需要复杂设备或材料的工作中，将寻求提高天然橡胶的机械性能，如增加强度、摩擦和抗冲击性。例如，离子或电导率可以通过适当的材料掺杂来改善。由巴西棕榈蜡制成的网状复合材料可制成结晶度较低的材料。这种合作代表了研究者的研究兴趣之间的完美契合。此外，他们之间拟议的互动将为两所机构的学生带来新的研究生课程。该项目预计将在巴西产生一种新的聚合物研究能力，并在石油供应变得稀缺或价格上涨的情况下，从自然资源中获得替代产品，从而实现互利。

This award supports cooperative research in polymers to be conducted by Harry Frisch of the Research Foundation of New York (SUNY-Albany) and Glaucione de Barros of the Federal University of Ceara in Fortaleza, Brazil. They will study novel methods of polymer modification by the formation of interpenetrating polymer networks. Such networks could result in more valuable modified natural polymers with significantly enhanced physical properties. Improved mechanical properties of natural rubber such as increased strength, frictional and impact resistance will be sought in work that requires little sophisticated equipment or materials. For example, ionic or electrical conductivity can be improved by suitable material doping. Network composites made of carnauba wax can produce a material of lower crystallinity. This collaboration represents an excellent fit between the research interests of the investigators. Additionally, the proposed interaction between them will result in new graduate programs for students at both institutions. The project is expected to result in a new polymer research capability in Brazil and in substitute products from natural sources, of mutual benefit as petroleum supplies become scarce or prices rise.