1D-patterned Nanocomposites Structured Using Oscillating Magnetic Fields

The objective of this work is to develop a scalable manufacturing capability of hierarchical 1D-patterned nanocomposites as designed by structuring nano- and micro-fillers using oscillating magnetic fields. Scalable manufacturing capability will enable bulk application of functional polymernanocomposites. Nanofiller (carbon, ceramic, metal, etc.) implementation is a powerful reinforcement option for composites; organization of these nanofillers within matrices can be tailored for desired functionalities (mechanical, electrical, thermal, thermoelectrical, etc.). When properly implemented into aerospace structures, these nanofillers will reinforce mechanical strength against fracture and erosion, and serve as conductive networks for defect sensing, lightning/EMI shielding, and deicing. Yet, development and application of these multi-functional nanocomposites in bulk have stagnated due to their poor scalability. Currently, nanocomposites with ordered micro-structures cannot be fabricated in large size. In addition, property enhancement of nanocomposites, which is successful for small-sized (~ mm) samples, has not been achieved in the macro-sized (~cm to m) samples. Thus, a scalable nano-manufacturing method is a critical first step towards successful bulk application of nanocomposites, and is also an important base for successive steps of multi-scale structure-processing-property relationship study.