Document Type

Thesis

Date of Award

Summer 2019

Degree Name

Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering - (M.S.)

Department

Committee for the Interdisciplinary Program in Materials Science and Engineering

First Advisor

N. M. Ravindra

Second Advisor

Michael Jaffe

Third Advisor

S. Basuray

Abstract

The last decade has witnessed explosive growth in the world of photoactive polymers for a variety of applications in several sectors of the global economy. The need for efficient, reliable, and low-cost data acquisition, storage, processing, transmission, and display technologies has made it necessary for research aimed at addressing these needs. Recent accomplishments in this materials area represent exciting opportunities for major innovations in various fields. However, further work needs to be done to transfer the technology from fundamental R&D to manufacturing. The goal of this study is to provide a better understanding of the optical properties of polymers and identify the candidates that are ideal for a variety of applications.

The fundamental optical properties and characteristics of several commonly used polymers are presented in this study. Mathematical simulations of signal propagation through a polymer core waveguide are examined to determine the materials that are most suitable for long range communications. Other applications such as electronic devices, temperature and pressure sensors, protective coatings and energetic materials are briefly considered. Self-healing and self-repair in polymers are examined.

Share

COinS
 
 

To view the content in your browser, please download Adobe Reader or, alternately,
you may Download the file to your hard drive.

NOTE: The latest versions of Adobe Reader do not support viewing PDF files within Firefox on Mac OS and if you are using a modern (Intel) Mac, there is no official plugin for viewing PDF files within the browser window.