Research Projects

Functionalized polymer grafted nanoparticles (PGNs) are valuable in designing next-generation multifunctional polymer composites due to their ability to control spatial organization and properties through various modifications. However, this presents an experimental challenge due to the variety of parameters involved. A computational approach that combines computation and experiments is essential for aiding design in these systems. This project focuses on systems composed of functionalized PGNs with different energy functional groups, which can introduce anisotropic interactions to design composites with tunable mechanical properties. The proposed framework combines multiscale simulations with experimental studies to examine the structure-property relationship in networks of PGNs with anisotropic interactions. Multiscale simulations will be based on effective interactions between PGNs, self-consistent field theory, and force-assisted kinetics. Experimental studies using the NanoTracker 2 optical tweezer setup will be used to understand geometric effects on particle interactions and micromechanics of networks. The combined results will provide a general methodology for developing a framework for aiding the design of composites with tunable mechanical properties.