NCC – Test Your Concepts Before Investing In Production
NCC is aggressively advancing nanocomposite characterization by combining a comprehensive knowledge of past and current characterization techniques with a full range of testing equipment and a critical network of resources when more complex testing is required. As a result, manufacturers can test parts or materials prior to nano enhancement to create the baseline they need for comparison. As nanoparticles are added, subsequent testing provides manufacturers with the preliminary results they require to justify further investment in an application.
(l) A handheld nano particle counter. (r) Measuring the thickness of nano paper.
In addition to in-house mechanical testing, NCC’s thermal testing equipment, from TA Instruments, includes dynamic mechanical, thermomechanical and thermogravimetric analyzers. The Center’s team can characterize nanoparticles for purity and size and nanocomposites for dispersion, exfoliation and property enhancement. Equipment to quantify coating thickness has been implemented as an innovative method to measure the thickness of thin films containing carbon nanomaterials. A portable ultrafine particle counter allows the team to monitor exposure during nanomaterial handling and processing, or to verify that a sufficient number of air changes has circulated through a room prior to re-entry after processing activities. NCC is also exploring non-traditional techniques of nano characterization.
The Center provides hands-on knowledge of electron microscopy and through collaboration with government and university partners, can microscopically analyze raw materials as well as nanocomposites.
NCC’s active work with its network of high tech partners – including aerospace companies and certified testing facilities, also allows the Center to perform advanced application testing such as lightning strike, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness and thermal testing.
For more information about NCC’s nanocomposite capabilities, projects and collaboration opportunities please contact Ryan Snyder at rsnyder@compositecenter.org
