Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

This RTI application requests funds to acquire a new, modern batch mixer suitable for small scale compounding to replace old, outdated equipment, which has experienced repeated malfunctions, and is no longer supported by the manufacturer. The specific equipment requested is a torque rheometer connected to an intensive batch mixer, capable for melt mixing and reactive compounding of polymers. The configuration requested can handle small amounts of material, between 50-70 cc, suitable to produce test specimens for mechanical property characterization.<br /> <br /> The equipment will be utilized in the extensive research activities of the applicant, as well as in the activities of the Polymers Research Group (PRG) of Queen&rsquo;s University. It will support research in the areas of novel conventional thermoplastic and sustainable bioplastic compounds, reinforced thermoplastic composites, and electrically conductive nanocomposites. Sustainable thermoplastic materials, which combine superior engineering properties with desirable traits such as light weight, ease of manufacturing, low cost, recyclability and/or biodegradability are of major scientific and technological importance. This research is expected to provide a wide array of materials suitable for commodity and value-added applications, including automotive, structural, packaging, and other specialty products, of importance in the Canadian manufacturing sector. <br /> <br /> Access to modern, reliable, robust and safe compounding equipment is necessary to conduct these activities successfully. The proposed batch mixer configuration will be used to produce polymeric mixtures and accomplish branching, cross-linking and grafting reactions in the melt state, thus avoiding the use of toxic and environmentally harmful organic solvents.<br /> <br /> The requested compounding equipment is an essential tool in the research of the PI and other members of the PRG. Its availability will ensure our capacity to attract research funds and industrial support. The development of innovative, industrially relevant, cost-effective and sustainable thermoplastic materials that can be used in value-added applications will result in advances in materials and manufacturing technology. This will benefit the Canadian plastics manufacturing sector and advance the training of highly qualified personnel (HQP), while promoting environmental benefits. In addition to utilization by researchers of the PRG, other Queen&rsquo;s university departments and neighbouring institutions stand to benefit from the availability of the equipment.<br /> <br /> HQP with access to the requested equipment will not only benefit from improved research infrastructure in their research work, but they will develop expertise in techniques that are used throughout Canada&rsquo;s plastic and rubber industries. They will thus acquire operating skills that are directly transferrable to the industrial sector.