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Greener Nanomanufacturing
The aim of this effort is to develop methods of manufacturing nanoparticles using a process that is efficient and minimizes waste, while maintaining the properties needed for high-performance applications. The lessons that emerge from the research conducted during the initial SNNI funding cycle are the importance of developing (i) a mechanistic understanding of the reactions developed for use in microscale reactors, (ii) real-time, in situ, as well as ex situ, characterization methods to guide research and production decisions, and (iii) strong integration and project coordination between the chemistry and engineering in order to develop reactors and methods capable of continuous, high-rate production of highly functionalized nanoparticles.
Thrust Group Leader: Dr. Vincent Remcho (OSU)
Mechanistic studies in in situ spectroscopy toward high-rate, continuous flow nanoparticle production in microchannel reactors
The goal of the research group is to develop new syntheses and continuous flow methods for production of nanoparticles that enhance material quality and reliability, increase production rate and decrease waste compared to batch processes. Toward this end, we conduct mechanistic studies that guide the development of synthetic strategies that are more efficient and amenable to continuous flow production. A considerable emphasis is placed on developing new methods to gain this mechanistic insight, including the development of in situ spectroscopic probes such as small-angle-x-ray scattering and optical spectroscopy that can be used to monitor nanoparticle growth within microchannel reactors.
Microsystem development for metal nanoparticle production
We are developing reliable and reproducible methods for manufacturing, transporting, purifying and depositing uniformly sized inorganic nanoparticles using efficient microsystems. Toward this end, we focus on a microwave-enhanced microreactor system and unique micro-channel-based jetting and microemulsion devices.
Exploring environmentally-benign routes for transport, purification and functionalization of nanoparticles and nanostructures
This research group uses supercritical (ScFs) and near critical fluids (NcFs) as solvents to develop greener routes for the synthesis, functionalization, and deposition of nanoparticles and hierarchiacal structures composed of integrated nanomaterials. The ScF methods developed here should enable cost-effective, industrially scalable, environmentally friendly nanomaterial processing. In particular, we will focus on deposition of nanoparticle thin films using ScFs and NcFs and integration of the unit operations into more continuous processes. Application of the technology to devices and challenges in clean energy and polymers are also explored.
Completed Projects under this Thrust
Application of microreactors to produce ceramic nanoparticles in the gas phase Dr. Sundar Atre, OSU
We designed and fabricated an alumina microreactor to study the synthesis of nanosized silicon nitride powder via the ammonolysis of SiO vapor at temperatures ranging from 1300°C to 1400°C. It is the first high temperature ceramic microreactor capable of operating at temperatures up to 1600°C. Due to its portability, and hence reduced reaction volume this microreactor provides a better control over the residence time and diffusion length of the reactants in the hot reaction zone, resulting in a better control over the particle morphology and size distribution.
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