Polystyrene Containing no Head to Head Units  Traditional methods for manufacturing polystyrene involve radical coupling of styrene mainchains in a head to head fashion. Importantly, the head to head linker can become thermally unstable as a result of the processing methods that are used in polystyrene derived product manufacturing. The resulting instability produces radical styrene monomers, which have unpleasant characteristics that are not pleasing to consumer senses. This technology provides a new means for generating more thermally stable polystyrene derivatives through the use of a nitroxyl-mediated polymerization reaction. This novel process allows for the development of polymers free of head to head units and have been observed to be more thermally stable than polystyrene developed through traditional methods. |
Conjugate Addition Products of Primary Amines and Activated Acceptors This technology is based on an organic synthesis method of reacting amines with alpha, beta unsaturated compounds to produce dendrimer structures. The overall reaction mechanism produces Michael addition products that include double Michael additions and vicarious Michael additions. The potential for this synthetic process lies in its flexibility to introduce new geometric/amplification, structural parameters into the core, and interior or terminal components of a dendrimer architecture. Importantly, this allows for the design or creation of new tunable dendritic properties. |
Center for High Performance Scientific Computing (CHIPS-Comp) A Beowulf-type cluster of 20 dual Alpha EV6 833, 750 and 667 MHz workstations with a Scalable Coherent Interface (SCI) network accelerates the progression of parallel programming tasks and exchange of information across the processors. This architecture allows for an extremely powerful supercomputing capability that may be used by researchers in diverse fields to process data at rates not achievable with conventional computing systems. The center can support research in materials science, nuclear physics, parallel computing, and can offer know-how as well as consulting services in material science and nuclear physics and access to computational methods development expertise. |
Fastening and Joining Research Institute  The objective of this institute is to enhance the reliability and safety of metallic, composite and polymeric joints by advancing the science and technology of mechanical fastening, adhesive bonding, welding and riveting. The institute is a one-of-a-kind facility that pursues fundamental and applied research to develop and disseminate new technologies for the fastening and joining of metals, composites and polymers. The Institute develops and disseminates novel advanced technologies in the areas of automated assembly of bolted joints, adhesive bonding of composites, resistance welding and riveting, a niche area that significantly impacts the safety and reliability of many products. |
Magnetoelectric Multilayer Composites for Field Conversion This technology is a magnetoelectric multilayer composite comprised of alternate layers of a bimetal ferrite and a piezoelectric material for facilitating conversion of an electric field into a magnetic field, or vice versa. The preferred composites include cobalt, nickel, or lithium zinc ferrite and PZT films that are arranged in a bilayer or in alternating layers, laminated, and sintered at high temperature. The composites are useful in sensors for detection of magnetic fields; sensors for measuring rotation speed, linear speed, or acceleration; read-heads in storage devices by converting bits in magnetic storage devices to electrical signals; magnetoelectric media for storing information; and high frequency devices for electric field control of magnetic devices or magnetic field control of electric devices. |
Textile-Related Technology for Use in Ballistic Resistant Vests  This technology incorporates a new method and process for making ballistic resistant protective gear such as bullet proof vests. A vest of this design is relatively comfortable and maximizes the protective and degradation properties of the material. The protective properties derive from the development of a composite fabric containing Kevlar that reduces bulk density. It is designed to withstand low to high levels of piercing and is anticipated to be rated as high as a type IV (with a steel plate insert) on the National Institutes of Justice rating scale: protection against .30 caliber armor piercing (AP) bullets (U.S. Military designation M2 AP), with nominal masses of 10.8 g (166 gr) impacting at a maximum velocity of 869 m/s (2850 ft/s) or less. |
Amphiphilic Silver Delivery of Bactericidal Delivery in Coatings This technology is a method for embedding metals (specifically, silver) into coatings and textiles across a variety of applications. Silver has a variety of uses in pharmaceuticals and has found increasing application as a bactericide and in treatments for conditions ranging from severe burns to Legionnaires Disease. This technology enables textile coatings incorporating the bactericidal properties of silver into diverse range of products such as catheters, stents, implants, hospital garments, free flow filters, mattress covers, carpeting and air filters. |
Center for Product Research and Development This center assists innovators develop concepts into products through access to professional services, prototyping, and manufacturing facilities for facilitating the commercialization support of novel ideas. The Center provides access to computer aided engineering specialists, material and product testing facilities, prototype and manufacturing resources, and assistance in establishing new enterprises. The center can assist with product design, prototype and testing; expanding sponsored research programs; integrating technological innovations into economic-development efforts; offering training and educational programs; and patent processes. |
Production of iron using environmentally-benign renewable or recycled reducing agents  The technology is intended as a replacement for the blast furnace iron making process, allowing iron oxides to be converted into high-density metallic iron in a single processing step. Pellets, briquettes, or other agglomerates made by mixing finely ground iron oxides with a variety of organic compounds or biomass materials can be made and processed into iron nuggets at the mine site. The process allows direct marketing of iron nuggets to steel producers and iron recyclers, rather than only being able to sell iron oxide pellets to blast furnace facilities. On an industrial scale, it is expected that it will be possible to process the pellets to pig iron nuggets using any of several types of furnaces including rotary hearth furnaces shaft furnaces or bath smelting furnaces. The key is that the heat for melting is supplied separately from the reducing power using any convenient fuel or energy source, while reducing power is provided by the hydrocarbon or carbohydrate materials that are added to the pellet.
All of the existing metal nugget technologies depend on coal as their reducing agent. All other iron making technologies either require coke (for blast furnaces), or natural gas (for direct-reduced iron). Researchers have all assumed that only fuels with at least as much energy content as coal can be used for reducing iron oxides to metallic iron nuggets, largely based on the fact that, historically, iron production has required either coke or charcoal as the carbon source/fuel. The iron making industry has therefore not been able to take advantage of the large quantities of biomass and recycled organics that this invention will allow to be used. |
Heap Leach Compaction Evaluation Column The purpose of this invention is to allow for the construction of a heap leach compaction evaluation column that is able to simulate the conditions within an actual ore bed. Evaluation columns are common in the mining and material processing industries but do not often realistically represent the columns in actual material leach heaps because existing column designs do not allow for generation of sufficient pressures within the simulated ore bed. The object of this invention is to produce a constant and controllable pressure in the simulated ore bed so that heap leach evaluation columns are more representative of actual conditions in the field.
This invention comprises a hollow tube in which an aggregate material or agglomerated ore is placed. A free floating plunger is place on top of the ore and pressure is applied to the plunger with an external force. The external force may be applied by an inflatable air bladder or multiple bladders that are restricted by a flange or other restrictive device such as an affixed lid at the top of the tube, by placing heavy weights on top of the plunger, or other suitable means to supply sufficient force. For analytical purposes the tube may also include sensors for temperature, pressure, and other readings. |
Low Temperature Silicon Film Deposition By Pulsed Cathodic Arc Process for Microsystem Technology Researchers at Michigan Tech demonstrated for the first time the deposition of doped silicon films by pulsed cathodic vacuum arc techniques. The development of silicon thin films is attractive for many applications in the field of microelectronics and micromechanics such as thin film transistors, solar cells devices, and structural elements in microelectromechanical system (MEMS). The production of MEMS device quality silicon film materials at low temperature would further enable the integration of microsystems with microelectronics. To meet a growing variety of device technology requirements, attention is given to the processing methods to control the materials' growth and properties. As a technique for high quality film growth, cathodic vacuum arc deposition is characterized by low deposition temperature, high deposition rate, relatively low operational cost and high-energy process capabilities due to the nature of arc plasma discharge.
The direct current (D.C.) and pulsed current vacuum arc comprise two approaches implemented for film deposition. Compared with D.C. arc, pulsed arc has the advantages of higher ion energies and higher deposition rate as well as the reduction of macro droplets intrinsically associated with the cathodic arc process. However, two main issues limit the utilization of vacuum arc on silicon material. One is that the arc cannot be initiated on the intrinsic silicon unless it is heavily doped or is heated to increase the intrinsic electric conductivity substantially. The other problem with silicon is low thermal conductivity compared with most metals. The local heating at cathode spots and the resulting thermal shock can cause the silicon target to crack. Previous reports of cathodic vacuum arc on silicon film deposition were focused on the D.C. arc operation only. Pulsed technology is more appropriate for silicon cathodic arc deposition.
Compared with the D.C. arc process, more uniform target erosion and better control of the silicon spots were achieved by adjusting the pulsed arc current parameters. The deposition rate was high at 0.2nm/A.s in comparison with other available technologies. The microstructure of the films was dense with polycrystalline macro droplets embedded in an amorphous silicon matrix. |
Veneer-based product and method of manufacture & Carbon in wood products A rate limiting step in the production of veneer-based wood products or pressed wood composites is the time required to transfer heat through the product being pressed. This technology increases the thermal conductivity of composite wood materials thereby reducing the required press time to produce acceptable mechanical properties. This technology has been demonstrated for wood veneer products (“plywood”) and oriented strandboard but could apply to other composite materials where enhanced thermal conductivity is desired. |
Froth flotation of carbon from fly ash using environmentally friendly oil/method of removing carbon from fly ash A froth flotation method is provided for removing carbon from fly ash which utilizes an environmental friendly conditioning agent. The conditioning agent preferably comprises a biodegradable oil which is added to a slurry containing raw fly ash and water. The conditioning agent renders the carbon in the fly ash hydrophobic such that upon aeration of the slurry, air bubbles attach to the carbon particles and carry them to the surface of the slurry in the form of a froth, such that the carbon may be removed. |
Removal of ammonia from fly ash A method for removing ammonia and ammonia compounds from fly ash and other combustion by-products is provided. The method may be performed with raw or processed fly ash, or it may be performed in conjunction with a wet beneficiation process. The method involves mixing the ammonia-contaminated fly ash with water and then filtering and/or drying the solution to remove the ammonia and water. The method produces fly ash having an ammonia content of less than about 60-80 ppm, which allows the fly ash to be utilized in a number of applications. |
Dynamic Indentation Hardness Tester The hardness of materials typically change under events of rapid deformation and the hardness under these conditions has become known as dynamic hardness. Measurement of dynamic hardness of materials is important in applications such as vehicle crashworthiness and other areas where materials are undergoing rapid deformation. This technology allows for the measurement of dynamic hardness with a relatively simple and inexpensive device. Michigan Tech is seeking to license this technology to individual end-users of the device as well as analytical equipment manufacturers who would license the technology to manufacture and sell the device to end-users, as well as. Exclusive licensing rights are available. |
Flotation column with adjustable support baffles An apparatus for separating by froth flotation hydrophobic and hydrophilic particles contained in an aqueous slurry, the apparatus comprising a generally vertical tubular column having an upper froth zone, an upper separation zone, and an intermediate feed inlet zone; a feed inlet, air inlet, froth outlet and a tailings outlet; an upper baffle unit comprising a plurality of horizontally extending upper baffle plates, a vertical upper support member including an upper end portion, and first upper apparatus for removably mounting the upper baffle plates on the upper support member at predetermined vertically spaced positions; each of the upper baffle plates comprising a mounting aperture and a plurality of flow apertures; and a second upper apparatus for removably supporting the upper support member in the column with the upper baffle plates in the upper separation zone. The apparatus can include a lower baffle unit. The open area of each baffle plate and the vertical space between adjacent baffle plates can vary between different baffle plates in dependence upon the position of a baffle plate in the column, or in dependence upon one or more of the following: a solids flow rate at the position, a liquid flow rate at the position, and a gas flow rate at the position. The invention also provides a method for improving the operating performance of an unbaffled column. |
Chemical comminution technique for producing powders of inorganic oxides A method for producing powder from polycrystalline inorganic material by contacting polycrystalline inorganic material with the vapor of one or more reduced alkali metals in an environment substantially free of oxygen for a period of time sufficient to cause disintegration of the polycrystalline inorganic material into powder. The polycrystalline inorganic material may consist of one or more oxides, sulfides, or silicates, or combinations thereof. The polycrystalline inorganic material may also comprise a rock or mineral, such as basalt or pyrite. |
Very High Purity Alumina Processing Technique This technology allows for the production of a new aluminum oxide (alumina) material with very high compressive strength making the material suitable for applications that require high strength and/or high temperature. The failure strength of alumina created with this process is considerably greater than any other commercially available alumina. The manufacturing process for this new ultra high-strength alumina includes traditional processing techniques such as vacuum hot pressing and hot isostatic pressing. |
Wet process for fly ash beneficiation A wet process for the beneficiation of a fly ash by-product has the following steps: a) forming a slurry mixture of a fly ash material and a liquid; b) gravitationally separating and collecting a first material fraction of the fly ash having a density less than the liquid by skimming off floating slurry material; c) separating a first magnetic fraction from the slurry by subjecting a first magnetic fraction from the slurry by subjecting the slurry to a magnetic field of from about 300 gauss to about 10 kilogauss; d) separating the unburned carbon from the remaining slurry components by adding an effective amount of an oil having a carbon chain greater than octane, and a frothing agent whereby the oil coats the unburned carbon forming hydrophobic carbon materials and inducing air into the system for frothing the slurry mixture wherein the hydrophobic unburned carbon froths to the surface and is removed by skimming off the frothing layer; and e) collecting the remaining fraction of silicate spheres and silicates. |
Zinc Aluminum Alloys Zinc – Aluminum alloys as an environmentally friendly alternative to bronze for bearings Classic problems with Z-Al alloys are dimensional stability, corrosion resistance, and brittle fracture. This technology solves the strength and brittleness problems through new forming techniques. This inventor has written a book chapter on this topic. |
Thermally Conductive Carbon Resins Dr. King leads a general focus effort at MTU in the area of thermally conductive resins. Specifically, her effort is focused on adding carbon to a variety of materials which to date have included wood, asphalt, and polymers. (See CTC web page, projects section) In previous years, she has experienced reasonable success in attracting both industrial and public funding for her work from Conoco, Louisiana Pacific and the National Science Foundation. |
Frontier Carbon Materials Dr. Yap leads a very focused effort in the atomic bonding control of frontier carbon materials. The majority of his time is specifically spent improving recent innovations in the field such as growing carbon-nitride crystals at 800C and 15 atm. Approximately half of Dr. Yap’s work could be classified as highly theoretical with a 10-15 year discovery horizon and the other half being directed in the general direction of a more near term application (5 year horizon). |
Fuel Cell Group This group is a multi-disciplined team focused on fuel cell heat recovery and fuel cell conversion efficiency improvement. These thrust areas are linked to a set of topics within which the group possesses expertise including heat recovery, initial start issues of high temperature fuel cells, high thermal and/or electrical conductivity materials, energy density, weight, and space related issues, high temperature membranes. low cost high energy cathode/anode, hydrogen generation, storage, transportation, and safety, fuel reforming, low CO emission, long life high power density battery development and hybrid battery. |
MEMS Center in Wireless Integrated Microsystems A multi-university National Engineering Research Center in Wireless Integrated Microsystems funded by the National Science Foundation gives MTU a strong base for microtechnology research. Among its first projects, the center will design a next generation cochlear implant for which MTU will design and build a |
Coatings for Carbon Nanotubes Research allows attachment of polymers to carbon nanotubes in a manner that preserves their conductivity and strength while permitting the nanotubes to support sensors. Functional conjugated polymers are designed and synthesized to modify carbon nanotube electrodes via strong pi-pi stacking interaction between the polymers and the nanotubes. Artificial and biological receptors, such as enzyme, antibody, and single strand DNA can be incorporated into the synthetic functional conjugated polymers. Electrochemistry [labeled biosensors] is employed to detect chemical or biological recognition. |
Magnetic Photonic Crystals Researchers are in the process of developing important materials research solutions that will enable the application of thin film magnetic photonic crystals to high performance electro-optical devices. Of great interest is a process that allows characterization and measurement of properties of novel materials that can simultaneously show piezoelectric properties, and change their index of refraction. These materials are used as [photonic crystals], materials that selectively filter frequencies of light and are tunable with an electric field. |
Advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics Services This research is focused on the areas of fluid mechanics and heat transfer, with a concentration in advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD), natural convection, turbulence (direct simulations and modeling), heat transfer correlation development, and microscales. Currently, the focus is on a number of industry related projects that involve computational fluid dynamics. While much of the research has focused on automotive applications, the service that can be provided is applicable in any area that involves heat transfer problems and fluid dynamics. |
Coatings Research Institute The CRI's two-fold mission is to be a leading academic organization that develops relevant scientific knowledge for understanding and for expanding the science and technology of paints, coatings, inks, adhesives and related nano-based materials. Areas of expertise represented in the CRI include, among others, coating technologies and formulation, polymer modification, cross-linking mechanisms and enabling technologies such as nanotechnology (nanoparticle materials), polymer structure/property relationships, characterization, vibrational spectroscopy (Raman and FT-IR), thermal analysis (DSC,DMA,TGA, DEA) and nanotribology. |
Surface Science and Nano-Tribology Laboratory (SSNTL) The Surface Science and Nano-Tribology Laboratory (SSNTL) is equipped with a Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM), a Scanning Probe Microscope (SPM), a Nano Indenter XP system, a Localized Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (LEIS) and other major equipment. Ongoing activities includes studies of surface mechanics and nano-tribology, as well as surface structure of polymeric coatings and other molecular films, and corrosion mechanisms at the micro and nano-scale. For example, a modified SPM has been used to study mechanical properties of nanomaterial and the newly developed Localized Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscope (LEIS) enables measurement of the impedance dot by dot with a resolution of microns while it scans across the surface of sample. Combined with Scanning Probe Microscope (SPM), that can image surface morphology with nano and sub-nano resolution, this technology allows investigation of corrosion mechanism in micro and nano-scale. Other areas of expertise include the mechanisms of fouling release coatings (nanotribological properties of non-toxic fouling release coating systems) and micro mar resistance (MMR), and different responses of the coatings/materials to scratch stress. |
National Dendrimer and Nanotechnology Center The National Dendrimer and Nanotechnology Center is the catalyst for dendrimer-based research initiatives. The Center’s current research agenda focuses on several types of dendrimer and nanoscale sciences: Drug encapsulation, release and disease targeting protocols are being established and tested for cancer therapy and anti-flammatory drug systems using a range of dendrimer carrier structures; researching cytotoxicity of dendrimers and other nanoscale structures; the use of dendrimers as a catalyst in the production of carbon nanotubes at the lowest temperatures recorded; the attachment of oligonucleotides to dendrimers for targeting, amplification or detection in biological systems; development of nuclear magnetic reagents which allow higher resolution and site specific targeting to disease or inflammation; stabilization of nano-crystals or quantum dots with unique optical, electronic or other properties for use in bio-labeling, and flat panel display technologies; development of lower-cost synthetic routes to new proprietary dendrimers and dendritic polymers; development of dendrimers as in-vivo nano-diagnostic agents and devices. |
Applied Chemical and Morphological Analysis Laboratory The Applied Chemical and Morphological Analyses Laboratory (ACMAL) is a university facility that houses an extensive array of electron microanalytical and x-ray instruments. Electron beam instrumentation includes two scanning electron microscopes (SEM), a high-resolution transmission electron microscope (TEM) and a focused ion beam milling system (FIB). X-ray equipment includes a sequential x-ray fluorescence spectrometer and five x-ray diffractometers. |
Dislocation Physics Laboratory The Dislocation Physics Laboratory conducts studies regarding the influences of dislocations on physical properties of solids.
The Laboratory focuses on three research areas: Investigating dislocation dynamics in semiconductors and intermetallics;
Understanding the basic mechanisms responsible for selective dislocation etching of semiconductors and intermetallics by RIE plasmas and chemical solutions;
Studying the fundamental processes in dislocation engineering of materials for new high-tech applications.
The Laboratory is equipped with several special facilities. Pulse Loading Systems apply stresses to move dislocations in samples of different materials. The systems can operate over a wide range of stresses, pulse durations and temperatures to measure the dislocation velocities in various materials under investigation.
A quartz annealing system equipped with an inert gas supply, high-temperature furnace, and programmed controller can reduce, if necessary, the density of dislocations, homogenize samples and/or stabilize their point defects. The individual dislocations are revealed by selective etching and observed by either an optical microscope with a PC-controlled digital camera, or an interferometric microscope, a scanning electron microscope, or an atomic force microscope.
The Reference Cell is a radio-frequency plasma discharge with a magnetically coupled sample manipulator. The Reference Cell, one of only several of this kind in the country, was specially designed for studying both the plasma properties and plasma etching of materials with different dislocation structures.
Several computer-controlled electronic systems and lasers allow measuring simultaneously properties of both plasmas and materials during etching. |
Institute for Engineering Materials (IEM) This center provides incentives and resources at the departmental and individual level for investigators from all departments to develop and utilize materials research infrastructure in the short-term while simultaneously providing departments a resource stream to enable meaningful long-term materials research infrastructure strategic planning. |
Institute of Materials Processing (IMP) The institute focuses on the extraction, processing, recycling, and utilization of materials and resources. They conduct sponsored technology development, research, problem solving, training, and technology services for MTU, the state of Michigan, other governmental units, and industry. Materials studied include metallics, ceramics, polymers, composites, minerals, and industrial processing wastes. Expertise includes bench-top experimentation through process development, pilot plant scale-up, and commercialization.
Personnel at IMP work closely with faculty members in the academic departments. Since the major focus of the institute, however, is toward accelerating technology transfer into the marketplace, most staff members are full-time, nonteaching research professionals. When necessary, the institute can enter into confidentiality agreements with research sponsors and can undertake both proprietary and classified work. Cooperative development programs with other organizations are also strongly encouraged.
IMP can provide full or partial student support for advanced research in the materials and resource processing areas. |
Synthesis, Characterization and Application of Novel Materials This research program has been focused on the synthesis, characterization and application of various novel materials including thin films, nanotubes, and new nanostructures of carbon, boron nitrides (B-N), carbon nitrides (C-N), and boron-carbon nitrides (B-C-N); single crystals and nanowires of wide band-gap semiconductors (AlN, GaN, ZnO); and new nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals (CLBO, GdYCOB, KAB). The methodology incorporates a Dual-RF-plasma Pulsed-Laser Deposition (PLD) System used to coat catalyst thin films for the growth of carbon nanotubes. |
Nanostructural Materials The objective of this research is to design new and improved routes to interesting and industrially useful nanostructural materials and thin films. This program of research has produced a discovery in the field of carbon nanotubes that is likely to allow for the low-cost and marketable fabrication of plastics that are lightweight, dependable, and extremely resistant to fracturing. Fahlman's recent breakthrough - growing amorphous carbon nanofibers from iron-encapsulated dendrimer catalysts at ambient temperature - means that, for the first time, the complexity associated with carbon nanostructural growth has been simplified to mixing the reactants and stirring them at room temperature. |
Assessing Intra- and Inter-molecular Interactions The main focus of this research program is the development of accurate methods for assessing intra- and inter-molecular interactions in molecular simulations with empirical force fields. High-level ab initio quantum data are used as a source of fitting data and as a benchmark for testing the resulting techniques. Explicit treatment of electrostatic polarization and other many-body interactions receives a very special level of attention. This methodology is then employed in various applied projects such as computer simulations of proteins and protein-ligand complexes. This area is crucial in modern computer-aided drug design. Another important application is simulating surfaces of thin films (Langmuir mono- and multi-layers) and processes upon or under such surfaces. A variety of self-assembly events can take place in these systems. The applications range from synthesis of self-assembling compounds to creation of new materials and nano-scale molecular electronics devices (molecular computers). |
Tribology, Surface Topography and Vibratory Stress Relief Research in tribology has focused on topics such as: simulation of liner/ring wear, effect of cylinder wall surface topography on cylinder kit wear and scuffing, theoretical prediction of oil film thickness between piston rings and cylinder walls and use of advanced materials and coatings to enhance tribological performance. The primary goals and another research track are to characterize and simulate valve wear mechanisms which occur on engine valves. The laboratory simulator which has resulted from this work is being used to rank the wear resistance of various valve materials and processing methods.
A related program of research has focused on the effect of tool wear on the surface topography of turned work pieces has been studied. A physical model which describes this relationship has been determined and future work will likely concentrate on developing non-contacting methods of monitoring work piece surface topography to help provide on-line optimization of metal cutting.
Finally, vibratory Stress relief (VSR) is being investigated as an alternative to tempering. VSR is expected to be more economical, faster and cleaner than tempering. Welded, cast, plastically deformed and heat treated samples are being investigated. |
Finite Element Analysis and Computer-Aided Engineering This reseach is focused on developing an array of technologies including finite element, boundary element, and finite difference programs for specific applications such as phase change, material fracture, contact stresses, sheet metal forming, strength evaluations, injection molding, etc. Developing interface programs for smooth and complete data transfer between CADD systems and F.E. programs. |
Physical Processes Involved in Adhesive Bonding and Material Damage Skills and expertise is available for modeling, analysis and simulation of contact between deformable bodies including mechanical models, mathematical formulations, variational analysis, and numerical analysis of the associated variational formulations. Areas of current activity are modeling of Industrial Processes by PDEs, variational inequalities as well as thermoelastic dynamic contact with friction, wear, adhesion or damage. |
µMRI Techniques for Detection and Investigation of Articular Cartilage This research program is generally designed to use high resolution MRI and other microscopic imaging techniques to study a number of important engineering, biological and biomedical problems. More specifically, the research is focused on detecting cartilage degradation, an early event in osteoarthritis using µMRI. The techniques developed are capable of a transverse resolution of 14 microns across the full depth of the cartilage tissue layer. This microscopic resolution allows examination of tissue properties in individual histological zones in cartilage non-invasively and non-destructively. |
Light Scattering Techniques for Reliable Characterization of Ferrelectric Thin Films of Ba(Sr)TiO3 and Carbon Nanotubes This research has yielded new knowledge and applications for light scattering techniques such as photoluminescence and Raman spectroscopy in the investigation of the optical properties technologically important materials. Electronic and vibrational energy levels in material samples are inferred from laser light scatter data. Pressure and temperature perturbations allows characterization of new materials and better understanding of their functional properties. |
Spin Wave Spectrum in Micro-sized Arrays of Magnetic Wires and Dots This program of research emerged from an investigation of the linear and nonlinear dynamics of magnetic excitation in magnetic films, multilayers and finite-size samples—spin waves, solitons and parametric instabilities. The program is designed to yield applications of linear and nonlinear spin waves to microwave signal processing as well as data relevant to a variety of problems including bright and dark spin envelope solitons in magnetic films. |
Exact Diagonalization Methods for Understanding Nanostructures, Spin Chains, High-Tc Cuprates, Ladders and Frustrated Spin Systems This research program, oriented toward understanding strongly correlated condensed matter, involves apply numerical techniques to probe and understand the properties of strongly correlated electronic systems. The research is focused on Exact Diagonalization methods as a tool for understanding nano structures, High-Tc cuprates, ladders, spin chains and frustrated spin systems. |
Optimizing Force and Displacement Measurements for Nanomechanical Devices This research program emerged from a focus on properties of correlated electrons and electron transport at low temperatures. Value insights have emerged from the program including discovery of the effect of non-dissipative drag (NDD) on superconductors and mesoscopic systems that results from the coupling of the zero point charge fluctuations between two systems with no tunneling from one to the other. This discover has led to potential application in the form of an eddy current coupling mechanism between a superconductor and a normal metal. Importantly, studies of phonon squeezing and ways of controlling zero point noise by applying pulses are yielding quantum non-demolition force and displacement measurements in nanomechical devices. |
Optimization of the Conductivity and Transparency of ITO Thin Films This research program is broadly defined as a study of the electrical, optical, chemical and structural characteristics of Indium-Tin-Oxide (ITO) deposited on Glass and Polymer substrates. Indium Tin Oxide is a transparent, conducting material with a variety of applications in display devices, photovoltaic devices and heat reflecting mirrors. Basic understanding of the material properties from energy band structure calculations, deposition parameters are the key tasks in this research effort. The sheet resistances, optical transmittances and microstructures are determined using four-point probe, spectrophotometer, x-ray diffractometer and transmission electron microscope. |
Fracture of Ceramics at High Strain Rates This research program is designed to yield understanding of the influence of microstructure on the high strain rate behavior of ceramic materials. High strain rate experiments are being conducted on ceramics fabricated in the laboratory so that control over the micro-structural features can be maintained. Initial work has focused on high purity aluminum oxide which was densified without the aid of sintering additives while still maintaining a fine grain size of 1-2 xb5m. Variations in grain size and porosity are achieved using additional heat treatment. Damage in shock loaded specimens is evaluated using a variety of techniques. The information from these systematic investigations is being used to develop models which will include the effects of microstructure as well as the loading conditions on deformation and fracture behavior. |
Plasma Deposition for Coating Applications Plasma deposition may be used to apply coatings for a wide range of applications. However, the complexity of the process has led to primarily empirical advances in system design and coating development. The goal of this research program is to develop a more fundamental understanding of processing- structure-property relationships in plasma sprayed coatings and splats (the `building blocks' of coatings). These studies should lead to more rapid coating development and to the tailoring of coating characteristics. Systematic variations in plasma temperature and velocity as well as the powder particle size are used to assess their influence on splat and coating structure and properties. |
Using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) to Analyze Surface Energy of Pull-off (Adhesion) Forces Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is capable of characterizing solid surfaces at the microscopic and sub-microscopic scales. As demonstrated in several laboratories in recent years, it can also be used to determine the surface tension of solids based on adhesion (pull-off) force measurements. Before AFM force measurements can become an accepted technique for particle-substrate adhesion characterization, individual problems causing irreproducibility of the measurement must be resolved. This is particularly important in the measurement of pull-off forces in very complex geometry systems that are of importance to the industry. For example, this research program has resulted in measures of the adhesion forces between pharmaceutical particles with irregular geometry and polymeric surfaces of varying roughness in a gas of controlled humidity level. |
Biointerfaces/Bioadhesion for Characterization and Modification of Implant Surfaces Metals and alloys, such as titanium and stainless steel, rely on the presence of an oxide film to act as a barrier preventing further oxidation in active environments, such as the human body. It is also the oxide film that forms the interface between the biomaterial and the body, with which cells and proteins interact. Oxide films vary in properties, depending in part on the method by which they are formed and the environment in which they are placed. These and other factors dictate the properties of the film such as thickness, roughness, composition, heterogeneity, electronic properties, and wettability, all of which play a role in cell interaction. This program of research is directed toward understanding the effect of surface properties of biomaterials on their biocompatibility. Students also chemically modify the surfaces of implant materials to improve osteoblast adhesion and differentiation. For example, a novel technology for formation and growth of bone-like apatite coatings on implants has been developed and then used in testing osteoblast cell activity on fabricated implant-apatite composites. |
Recovery of Polystyrene in Lost Foam This technology emerged from a research program initiated to assist the metal casting industry in prevention of polymer waste disposal, and to promote engineering solutions leading to reuse of the polymer. Our research strategy was based the principles of modern mineral processing technology to polymer recovery. The program includes particulate characterization, examination of surface-interfacial properties of the pattern components, development of an analytical technique for contaminant concentration measurements, shredding and size reduction, and selective separation testing based on component density. Our results indicate that as high as 98% of the polystyrene can be recovered, while the level of coating contaminants did not exceed 5 wt% in the final product, after using the developed technology. |
Purification of PET from PVC A technology involving treatment of PET and PVC particles with alkaline solutions followed by froth flotation of PVC with noinonc surfactants has been developed. In development research, this technology yielded 95-100% recovery of PET and PVC in separate products from a variety of PVC/PET mixtures. |
Surface Chemistry Features of Flotation Deinking A program of research has produced significant findings for a number of technologies focused on deinking. First, flotation deinking through flocculation of fine ink particles could be improved using synthetic copolymers. Second, findings indicated that polyalkylene oxide/fatty acid mixture, common surfactant blend in flotation deinking systems, has a dual role in separation of ink particles. Polyalkylene oxide serves as a frother, building stable froth layer that allows the floated ink particles to be skimmed from the top of the flotation cell. The fatty acids activated by calcium ions serve as collector and promote attachment of ink particles to gas bubbles. Finally, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) has been applied to recovered paper deinking systems for measuring the interfacial forces acting between pulp particulates. This new analytical technique mimics the conditions of recovered paper pulping and deinking separation at a micro scale. A new procedure for the preparation of spherical toner has been developed in collaboration with the University of Utah. Next, systematic measurements of interfacial forces in flotation deinking systems have been undertaken. For example, it was found that attractive hydrophobic forces are the dominant forces in flotation deinking systems. The repulsive forces are only significant in low ionic strength solutions. This observation has important practical implications indicating that the process water used in the paper recycling mill should carry enough dissolved ions to eliminate the negative effect of an energetic barrier associated with negative surface potentials on water-air and ink-water interfaces, on the attachment of ink particles to gas bubbles. It was further shown that the range of hydrophobic forces increases and the energy barrier decreases in the presence of calcium carboxylate. |
Institute of Materials Processing The Institute of Materials Processing (IMP) is an innovative, multi-disciplined, non-profit, industrially oriented research and development center holding over 60 patents. The IMP is housed in a $47.7 million dollar research facility on the campus of Michigan Technological University. Though IMP is located within Michigan Tech, funding comes solely from royalties and research projects. IMP has been providing entrepreneurs and industry with the resources to study minerals, environmental concerns and materials processing for over 40 years. IMP can assist you in meeting the challenges associated with each phase of your project's development, from preliminary studies to the final design and construction of a commercial operation. |
Heteroepitaxial growth on compliant substrates This program of research is focused on the fabrication, characterization, and properties of nanoscale layered structures. Additional concentrations include the integration of dissimilar materials through wafer bonding and the relationship between structural, optical and electronic properties of heterostructures. |
Fibers and Composites for Orthopedic Applications This program of research interests is oriented toward fabrication and characterizing polymeric fibers and composites, particularly focused on orthopedic applications. As such, the program incorporates expertise for designing assistive technology devices. Extended capabilities include research on the nanomechanical properties of hot compacted composites and wear of hot compacted composites for total hip replacements, particularly, fabrication of low-wear materials for total hip replacements. The research program offers expertise in nano-mechanical properties of materials, the thermomechanical properties of polymers, fabrication and hot compaction of polymer fiber composites. |
Grinding to Sub-micron Tolerances Axis positioning resolution on the order of nanometers has made possible the ductile machining of brittle materials. However, many of the concepts and models developed for traditional machining (characterized by high material removal rates and/or ductile workpiece materials) do not apply to machining at the nanometer level or to machining brittle materials. In this research program, analytical and experimental methods are being used to develop models for the machining of brittle materials. Beyond this scope, vibration assisted and water-jet assisted grinding, as well as wheel wear and wheel loading mechanisms also are being investigated. |
Environment-induced Embrittlement of Intermetallic Alloys Several intermetallics are extremely susceptible to embrittlement by water vapor; among these are the iron aluminides, alloys which otherwise have considerable promise as structural materials because of their low density, high resistance to corrosion and oxidation, and low cost. It is suspected that for these materials hydrogen embrittlement results from the reaction of the alloy surface with water vapor. This program of research incorporates measurements of fracture toughness and sub-critical crack growth under controlled chemical and electrochemical conditions to gain information about the kinetics of embrittlement. Structural characterization includes transmission electron microscopy. |
Free Machining Brass Alloys Tonnage quantities of leaded brasses are used in manufacturing plumbing fittings and fixtures. The lead, which appears as small inclusions in the microstructure, promotes efficient and precise machining. There is evidence indicating that minute quantities of lead dissolved from these alloys by drinking water may have adverse health effects and, for this reason, there is an urgent need to develop free machining alloys that do not contain lead. The means by which lead enhances machinability is not well understood but it may have simultaneous roles in lubrication and in local embrittlement processes. This program of research has the objective the characterization of the elemental cutting and fracture processes. |
Exploiting Low-density Intermetallic Alloys New cubic trialuminides based on titanium have been formed recently by selective alloying with chromium or manganese. These new low density alloys have good strength at high temperatures and excellent oxidation resistance. In this research program, ductility enhancement is being established through determination of the nature of the dislocations carrying the deformation by means of transmission electron microscopy and computer simulation of images. Exploitation of these materials as thermally sprayed protective coatings for a variety of materials is also being studied, as is their use in intermetallic composites formed with various ceramic reinforcements. Finally, ultrahigh pressure hot isostatic pressing of mechanically alloyed trialuminides is being examined as a means of producing nanostructured versions of these materials. |
High Transition Temperature Shape Memory Alloys Selected site substitution alloying is being used to develop new high transition temperature shape memory alloys. Currently available alloys are restricted in their use to temperatures of the order of 100C or less. Most potential high transition temperature shape memory alloys based on intermetallics are brittle, but in many cases can be ductilized through selected alloying. Similarly, the shape-memory effect can be enhanced by manipulating the balance between deformation by slip and twinning. |
Computer Simulation of Dislocation-based Study of Materials Deformation, Strengthening and Failure Dislocation studies play an important role in understanding deformation, strengthening, and failure mechanisms of materials. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has been commonly used in these studies. Improved computer simulation methods, recently developed in a program of research, have enhanced our ability to identify dislocations quantitatively. For example, comparison of a TEM image of a `superlattice' dislocation in a deformed Al67Mn8Ti25 alloy, compared favorably with the computer-simulated image of the dislocation formed by using only pertinent material constants, geometrical data, and imaging conditions. |
Electronic structure and transport properties of thermoelectric materials This work is focused on computational condensed matter physics and materials science, in particular the electronic structure problem in semiconductors and complex materials. Computers are used as powerful microscopes to investigate the quantum properties that technology exploits to build new solid state devices. Solar cells, lasers and IR-detectors use semiconductor materials that are created ad hoc to optimize functions like light emission and detection. The research is aimed at optimizing the interesting properties of these materials by performing both semi-empirical and first principles calculations. |
Materials Testing Laboratory The Materials Testing Laboratory supports testing of plastics, metals, and fuels and lubricants. Laboratory analysis and certified testing in these areas is supported by a Tinius Olson tensile test machine (30,000# load cell). The laboratory has capabilities for magnetic particle testing, fluorescent penetrant testing, eddy current testing, and carbon analysis tests. The facilitity incorporates a complete metallurgy lab, high temperature furnaces, humidity chamber, hardness testing, micro-hardness testing, abrasion testing, plastics testing (extrusion and deflection), gas chromatograph, infra-red spectrophotometer, sulfur in oil analyzer, and fuel and lubricant testing apparatus. |
Metal Fabrication Facility The metal fabrication laboratory complex consists of four laboratory areas: foundry, machine tool, welding, and fabrication. Examples of equipment available for use include laser cutter, 1/4" x 10' shear, 90 Ton press brake, MIG/TIG/Plasma/Stick/Gas welding, foundry (sand casting), 1-Ton bridge crane, and monorail crane. Some of the processes that can be accomplished on these state-of-the-art machines include cutting through 1/4" steel on the (500 watt) computer numerical control industrial laser or by using the 100 amp plasma-arc machine. Manufacturing with the twenty tool automatic tool changing machining center is computer controlled and can be programmed manually at the machine control center or by (DNC) direct numerical control from the (CAM) computer-aided manufacturing laboratory. |
NMR Spectrometer With support from the Chemistry Research Instrumentation and Facilities: Departmental Multi-User Instrumentation (CRIF:MU) Program, the Department of Chemistry at Eastern Michigan University has acquired a 400 MHz nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) Spectrometer. This instrument permits the initiation of projects not possible currently and will lead to greater interaction of faculty in Chemistry with those in the College of Technology and Biology. Research projects to benefit from the NMR spectrometer include studies on nitrogen-phosphorus flame retardants, natural product synthesis, nitrogen heterocycle synthesis, and organic and heterocycle synthesis. This instrument helps attract research-oriented faculty and improve the learning experience for graduate and undergraduate student researchers. The formal teaching program will be immediately and positively affected in a senior laboratory class on synthesis. |
Wide-Band Magnetoelectric Interactions in Single Crystal Multiferroic Bilayers Materials that are capable of magnetic field-to-electric field conversion are potentially useful for a variety of technologies. There are few such magneto-electric materials in nature and most of them have a low efficiency when converting fields. This research is aimed at artificial composite materials with excellent conversion properties. The composites will be made by bonding plates of ferrites, which deform in a magnetic field, together with ferroelectrics, which produce an electric field when deformed. The field conversion properties will be studied over a wide frequency range for information on their use in consumer electronics, communication devices, and radar systems. These projects will provide research training for personnel at all levels, from high school sophomores to post doctoral associates.
A comprehensive research program is planned on wide-band magnetoelectric (ME) interactions in bilayers of single crystal ferrites and ferroelectrics. The electromagnetic coupling in such systems is mediated by mechanical stress: magnetostriction induced mechanical deformation and the piezoelectric effect induced electric fields. Theories predict orders of magnitude stronger ME interactions in single crystals compared to polycrystalline multilayers. The primary tasks and goals are as follows. (i) The fabrication of bilayers consisting of spinel ferrites and piezoelectrics by bonding techniques. (ii) Measurement and analysis of ME dispersion characteristics, including Maxwell-Wagner relaxation, and low-frequency ME effects. (iii) Investigations on resonant ME effect when the electric and magnetic subsystems show resonance behavior. Human resource development will involve personnel at all levels, from high school students to research associates. The ME materials are potential candidates for magnetoelectric memory devices, magnetic field sensors, electrically controlled magnetic devices, and magnetically controlled piezoelectric devices. |
Materials Measurements and Modeling A new Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Site is established by the Physics Department at Oakland University. This is a ten-week program during the summers of 2006, 2007 and 2008, aimed at providing research experience to undergraduate students who have not engaged in research before. Each year, seven students are recruited from local area community colleges and high schools, and four-year colleges and universities nationwide. Each of these students works with an experienced mentor on a theoretical or an experimental research project in the areas of condensed matter or biological physics. Summer program activities include detailed tutorials by and discussions with the research project mentors, participants group meetings, research presentations, and a one-day visit to the Research and Development facility of a local area industrial laboratory. Furthermore, this program provides continued mentoring beyond the summer to encourage the student participants to continue higher education and science careers. |
Elastic and Plastic Deformation in Binary Alloy Crystallization A phase field crystal (PFC) model has been developed to study elastic behavior in the crystallization of pure materials. This was achieved by modeling the mass density on diffusive time and atomic length scales. The PFC approach naturally incorporates elastic and plastic deformations, multiple crystal orientations and free surfaces and was used to study grain boundary energy, liquid phase epitaxial growth and the yield strength of nano-crystalline solids. One ingredient not included in the original work was concentration which is particularly important since most materials contain at least two elements and the relative concentration of the elements can significantly impact the non-equilibrium processes and resulting microstructures. In addition, since all elements have different lattice structures and sizes, elastic and plastic deformations are strongly influenced by concentration. The goal of the research is to develop a computationally efficient model of microstructure formation and stability in binary alloy crystallization phenomena and to use this model to study technologically important applications such as dendritic growth, eutectic crystallization and liquid phase epitaxial growth in binary alloys.
The model will be developed by introducing a density field for each element, constructing an appropriate free energy functional F of these fields and assuming the dynamics are dissipative and driven to minimize F. The PI has extensive experience in constructing such models and has developed, in collaboration with others, models of eutectic solidification, driven charge density waves, polymorphic crystallization and imbibition. For the purposes of this research the PI has developed a preliminary model of binary alloy crystallization that includes elastic and plastic deformation. This model combines the PFC approach with a model of eutectic solidification. Initial calculations indicate that this preliminary model incorporates the generic features of a eutectic phase diagram and many of the typical patterns observed in non-equilibrium phenomena such as dendrites and eutectic crystallites with lamellar structures. In addition to these standard features the model includes all the elastic behavior incorporated in the original PFC model discussed above and was designed so that the concentration dependence of the lattice and elastic constants can be easily adjusted. While this preliminary model may need to be fine tuned, these initial calculations indicate a high likelihood that the PI will accomplish the primary goals of this project. A new model has been developed to describe microstructural evolution of binary alloys that also includes their elastic and plastic behavior as a function of their relative concentration. The research will have broad impact on both fundamental and applied science. Undergraduate students will be involved in the projects. |
Interactions in Open/Shell Clusters This work involves ab initio studies of intermolecular forces in clusters of open-shell moieties. Three classes of chemically interesting systems are being examined, including pre-reactive complexes,clusters and complexes of transition metals with He. The work is being carried out in collaboration with co-PI Grzegorz Chalasinski, of the University of Warsaw in Poland, who also holds an appointment as Visiting Professor at Oakland. Broader impacts expected from theis work is expected in the industrial control of chemical reactions, in nanotechnology through the study of metallic clusters and, possibly, in long-term effects on the development of quantum computing devices. Other broader impacts are occurring through the extensive work of the PI with undergraduates at Oakland University. |
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