Fractal-like polymeric particles and their use in diverse applications
AssigneeNorth Carolina State University
InventorsOrlin D. Velev, Sangchul Roh
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Abstract
Fractal-like polymeric particles having a hierarchical, branched structure are disclosed. The particles have fibers with nanometer-scale diameters on their peripheries, which enables a number of unique and highly desirable properties. The particles are fabricated by a method combining phase separation and shear forces of different solutions, in particular a polymer solution. In addition, the particles may be used as coatings, nonwovens, textiles and viscosity modifiers and adhesives, among other applications.
Claims12
A method for fabricating a particle comprising an aggregate of polymer molecules and having a branched fibrous structure, the method comprising:
- flowing a dispersion medium through a high shear mixer;
- introducing a precursor solution into the dispersion medium to form a dispersion system comprising the dispersion medium and a plurality of dispersed-phase components of the precursor solution, wherein the precursor solution comprises a polymer dissolved in a solvent for the polymer at a concentration of from about 3% to about 10% by weight, and the dispersion medium comprises an anti-solvent;
- and
- shearing the dispersed-phase components by flowing the dispersion system through the high shear mixer, wherein the dispersion system has a Reynolds number of about 3,000 or higher, whereupon the particle is formed in the dispersion medium.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.