Research Terms
Energy Chemical Engineering Environmental Chemistry Combat Engineering Military Medicine Chemistry Ground Support Systems and Equipment Infrared Detectors Measurement Science
Keywords
Additive Manufacturing Catalysis Corrosion Resistant Coatings Military Medicine Protective Coatings (Omniphobic) Smart Sensor Materials
Industries
International Zeolite Association, Member; 2021 - present
Lunar & Planetary Institute, Member; 2021 - present
Materials Research Society, Member; 2019 - present
American Chemical Society, Member; 2018 - present
The University of Central Florida invention is a rapid-action, polymer-based hemostatic bandage system that can withstand uncompromising blood loss. The two-component mixture of the hemostatic system chemically reacts to form a stiff, non-toxic foam that forms an artificial blockage which creates an autogenous pressure on the wound to control and arrest profuse bleeding. The sponge-like, polymer-based foam acts as a “tamponade” by expanding rapidly and arresting bleeding within a matter of minutes and can be removed without any signs of embolism, or any form of tissue, muscular or vascular damage. This unique formulation presents an easy and economical approach to a biocompatible and hydrophobic hemostatic bandage system with spontaneous self-expanding properties. The system is also capable of remaining functional in inclement weather conditions, which is often the case in battlefields and fields of operation.
Partnering Opportunity
The research team is seeking partners for licensing, research collaboration, or both.
Stage of Development
Prototype available.
The University of Central Florida invention offers a biodegradable hydrophobic or omniphobic coating with tailorable properties for various applications. The technology’s hydrophobic modifications, surface functionalization, and surface roughness modifications enable low contact angle hysteresis for easy roll-off and self-cleaning properties.
The UCF composite is based on polymer substrate(s) or functionalized polymer substrate(s), filler(s), inorganic(s), binder(s), lycopodium, or a combination of materials. The lycopodium may be functionalized with suitable end groups for better adhesion or to impart beneficial properties. The polymer(s) and other constituents may be deposited on the substrate by various methods including spin coating, dip coating, spray coating, sputter coating, electrospinning, solvent casting, or extrusion. Binders and chemicals are incorporated in suitable chronology with or without the solvents of choice.
Partnering Opportunity
The research team is seeking partners for licensing, research collaboration, or both.
Stage of Development
Prototype available.
The University of Central Florida invention provides an alternative method for producing an environmentally friendly, commercially viable, and sustainable material for applications in the energy sector. The world's rising energy needs and reliance on fossil fuels result in significant environmental damage. Numerous efforts already exist to generate clean and sustainable forms of energy, such as tidal, wind, and solar. However, it is challenging to replace the reliance on fossil fuels due to the cost and seasonal issues associated with those alternative energy sources. Overcoming the intermittent availability of clean and sustainable forms of energy requires a robust, sustainable infrastructure to store energy and distribute it continuously.
As a sustainable solution, the UCF invention offers a method for making non-polymeric, functionalized, free-standing zwitterion-promoted hybrid clay film/membranes. Clays are among the most promising materials for many high-value applications because of their porous structures, customizable surface areas, outstanding thermal and mechanical stabilities, abundant reserves, and cost-effectiveness. The UCF invention enables a material with good porosity and superior thermal and chemical stability. It is also electrically insulating and provides good ionic conductivity. Such features make it an excellent material as an ion-conducting membrane for energy applications. This includes battery separators, electrolyte membranes in fuel cells, and solid electrolyte membranes in batteries.
Technical Details
In one example application of the invention, UCF researchers altered the interlayer spacing of the clay minerals to functionalize the minerals with trimethyl glycine (TMG) zwitterion, better known as betaine. Such zwitterions are intercalated into the clay gallery to widen the interlayer gap. When fused with the aid of the zwitterion, the clay layers create a flexible, free-standing clay film or membrane. In addition, the zwitterion's carbon chain increases. The functionalized hybrid clay film membranes were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction to confirm the change in interlayer spacing.
The ionic conductivity of the functionalized clay membranes in a non-aqueous electrolyte was comparable to some of the polymer membranes used as ion-conducting membranes in energy applications, such as battery separators, electrolyte membranes in fuel cells, and solid electrolyte membranes in batteries.
Partnering Opportunity
The research team is seeking partners for licensing, research collaboration, or both.
Stage of Development
Prototype available.
