Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

The acquisition of a state-of-the-art rheometer, integrated with dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) capabilities, is essential for the ongoing success of the research programs led by Drs. Mohammad Arjmand and Abbas Milani at UBC Okanagan. Currently, UBC Okanagan has only one older standalone rheometer and one DMA, both of which are inadequate to meet the increasing demands of their research labs. The requested rheometer, with its dual functionality for both solid and molten phases, would be the first of its kind on the UBC Okanagan campus, offering significant upgrades over the existing equipment. One of the key improvements of the requested rheometer is its dual-drive mode functionality, which allows for more precise measurements in complex, dynamic, and non-linear applications, such as start-up shear and stress relaxation tests. These enhanced capabilities are not only vital for Drs. Arjmand's and Milani's research but also for the broader academic community at UBC Okanagan. Acquiring this advanced rheometer, complete with integrated DMA capabilities, will significantly enhance the scope and quality of research for both research groups. The instrument will play a pivotal role in the rheological, mechanical, and structural characterization of soft materials, benefiting not only the Okanagan region but also collaborating institutions across Canada. Both groups maintain extensive research networks, which include partnerships with over 50 companies and strong connections to various sectors of Canadian industry and government. Consequently, the requested equipment will have a substantial, far-reaching impact on their research programs. Moreover, the acquisition will offer invaluable hands-on training opportunities for Highly Qualified Personnel (HQP) in both research groups, especially those engaged in collaborative projects with industrial partners. The advanced capabilities of the new rheometer will enable HQP to gain expertise in both molten and solid-state techniques, broadening their technical skillsets and enhancing their career prospects, whether they pursue academia or industry. Given the existing familiarity both research groups have with the current rheometer, the transition to the new equipment will be seamless. Both groups are already well-versed in the software and operational procedures, ensuring that they can integrate the new capabilities effortlessly into their research workflows. This will not only ensure continuity but also significantly broaden the scope of their investigations and enable new, innovative research. Ultimately, the acquisition of the state-of-the-art rheometer will not only meet the immediate needs of Drs. Arjmand's and Milani's labs but will also open new avenues for groundbreaking research and innovation in polymer science and composite engineering, solidifying UBC Okanagan's position as a leader in these fields.