2022 Fiscal Year Research-status Report
Evolution of hierarchically structured ion conducting porous polymers with designable morphology for ionotronic sensors
| Project/Area Number |
22K14746
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| Research Institution | Shibaura Institute of Technology |
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Principal Investigator |
Ahmed Kumkum 芝浦工業大学, 工学部, 助教 (10861023)
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| Project Period (FY) |
2022-04-01 – 2024-03-31
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| Keywords | Ionic Liquid / Polymer / sensor |
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| Outline of Annual Research Achievements |
Ion conductive polymers have garnered significant global attention due to their ability to serve multiple functions in diverse applications such as batteries, electroactive soft robotics, and sensors. This particular study focuses on a highly efficient method for synthesizing network polymers using the thiol-ene reaction. The objective is to develop flexible and soft sensing materials that can be easily fabricated through 3D printing techniques. The PI successfully synthesized and characterized various materials, including ionic gels and ionic porous polymers.To create ionic liquid-based gels and porous polymers, the PI incorporated an ionic liquid into the thiol-ene network of thiol-based multifunctional monomers and acrylate crosslinkers. This approach allowed them to carefully manipulate the polymerizing conditions and solvents, resulting in the precise design of gel and porous polymers with desired properties.
The materials developed in this study exhibit exceptional characteristics. Firstly, they demonstrate remarkable 3D printability, enabling the creation of complex structures with fine resolution. Additionally, the conductivity of these materials, particularly in the case of ionic gels and porous polymers, can be finely tuned to suit specific applications. Moreover, the materials exhibit excellent thermal stability, ensuring their suitability for applications requiring elevated temperatures. Notably, they also possess piezo-capacitive sensing characteristics, making them capable of detecting mechanical pressure and converting it into electrical signals.
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| Current Status of Research Progress |
Current Status of Research Progress
1: Research has progressed more than it was originally planned.
Reason
The research plan is smoothly progressing. The PI has successfully developed the proposed materials and characterized the properties of the polymers along with their sensing characteristics. The 3D printing part is also progressing smoothly while a selection of parameters needs to be critically adjusted. Characterization includes morphology study, thermogravimetric analysis, and conductivity determination. LCD-type resin 3D printer was used to 3D print and work is underway to utilize an extrusion/injection type 3D printer for more complex design and design-based sensing performance.
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| Strategy for Future Research Activity |
In the future, the plan is to characterize their mechanical strength such as compression and tensile strength of the polymers, and improve their mechanical flexibility. Utilizing a fused filament fabrication type 3D printer few hinges and hard filler will be incorporated in the bulk polymer and their sensing properties will be observed. The mechanical characterization device and a fused filament fabrication printer will be purchased in the near future to smoothly summarize the research in the final year. The implications of these 3D-printable and customizable materials extend to various fields. In particular, they hold promising prospects in Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS), microfluidics, and sensors. The ability to precisely design and fabricate these materials opens up opportunities for the development of innovative devices and systems in these domains.
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| Causes of Carryover |
The proposed plan involves acquiring a fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printer to fabricate molds for sensor materials. This investment aims to explore a new printing technique, different from the one used previously, utilizing the funds allocated for this fiscal year. By employing FFF technology, we can enhance our capabilities in creating precise and intricate molds with excellent dimensional accuracy. Diversifying our printing methods reflects our commitment to innovation and continuous improvement. The allocated funds will be used to acquire the 3D printer and support research and development efforts, ensuring our sensor materials meet evolving customer needs. Overall, this plan aligns with our goal of advancing manufacturing processes through innovation.
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