The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded a $450,000 Project Grant under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CFDA 47.049) program to The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) for the research project "Morphologically Adaptive Nanocomposite Elastomers." The 3-year award, starting on August 1, 2024, aims to develop fundamental science for designing recyclable and reprocessable rubber-based materials through controlling the arrangement of nanoscale particles within the polymer matrix. This research seeks to overcome limitations in the recyclability of traditional rubber products by enabling the materials to maintain their shape and performance through the use of covalently-bound nanoparticle assemblies. As a sub-award under this grant, the University of Delaware will collaborate on the project. The insights gained from this work could enable transformative changes in the waste management and recycling of rubber products, reducing the need for crude oil in their manufacture.
Generated 3/4/25, 5:11 AM