Thermoplastic Composites

Catalog description

This class will explore both well-established and emerging composite plastic systems, including the basic chemistries and driving forces to explain composite material properties from micro to nanoscale composite systems. Microcomposites are discussed in terms of both common commercial materials (Glass/nylon, polypropylene/talc, for examples) as well as for cutting-edge composite systems that are explained through the use of current technical literature. The common theme of chemistry to promote interfacial adhesion is developed for each system. Characterization techniques that are common to composite evaluation are taught. Nanocomposites are considered in light of the greatly enhanced surface area of the filler relative to the microcomposite analogue.